Tail wagging by dogs

Tail wagging by dogs is the behavior of the dog observed as its tail moves back and forth in the same plane. It is considered a social signal.[1] Tail wagging by dogs can be described by its vigorous movement or even just the slightest movement of the tip of its tail. Other dogs wag their tail in a circular motion, and even when the tail is between their legs or the dog is on its back. The behavior of a dog can not always be an indication its friendliness. When a dog wags its tail, most people interpret this as the dog expressing happiness and friendliness. Though indeed tail wagging can express these positive emotions, tail wagging is also an indication of fear, insecurity, challenging of dominance, establishing social relationships, or a warning that the dog may bite.[2][3]

It is also important to consider the way in which the dog wags its tail. Usually positive feelings within a dog are associated with the right side. For instance, if a dog is about to receive a treat, his tail will likely move from right to left. On the other hand, negative feelings are typically connected with the left side. If a dog is being approached by another dog and feels threatened, the dog’s tail will usually move from left to right.

Tail wagging functions as the equivalent of a human smile. It is a greeting or an acknowledgment of recognition. Dogs tend not to wag their tails unless there is another animal or human nearby with whom to interact.[2]

Position of the tail

The position[4] at which the dog's tail is located symbolizes the emotional feelings that a dog obtains. A tail at its maximum height[5] can mean determination and high spirits. However, a vertical tail could also mean the dog is expressing dominance.A horizontal position indicates concern and show an interest in something that they have noticed. This usually means the dog is attentive and on high alert within their surroundings. Between their legs would mean the exact opposite of what it would mean when up high. This is how they express their fear and weakness. The position of the tail can identify the state the dog is at. Although these are all the most common characteristics, a certain breed[6] can make it a slight variation. The breed of the dog can affect how it wags its tail.

References

  1. ↑ Rogers, Lesley (2013). Divided brains : the biology and behaviour of brain asymmetries. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. p. 157. ISBN 978-0521183048.
  2. 1 2 Coren, Stanley (December 5, 2011). "What a Wagging Dog Tail Really Means: New Scientific Data Specific tail wags provide information about the emotional state of dogs". Psychology Today. Retrieved April 30, 2017.
  3. ↑ "The Language of Tail Wagging in Dogs". PetMD.
  4. ↑ Erus, Nola. "Dog tail positions and what they mean". BarkleyAndPaws. Retrieved 2018-04-12.
  5. ↑ "What a Wagging Dog Tail Really Means: New Scientific Data". Psychology Today. Retrieved 2018-04-12.
  6. ↑ "A Wagging Tail – What Does It Really Mean?". iHeartDogs.com. Retrieved 2018-04-12.


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