Dogs use their tails for signalling and for balance. Docked tail dogs aren’t able to communicate properly to other dogs which is why I’m glad the practice has generally been banned.
Tail movements are a good indicator of your dog’s emotional state. You probably recognise that your dog may be unhappy, scared or stressed if he holds his tail tucked under his body, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes a strong wind from behind can make a dog hold his tail tightly under him, as with Gus in the picture.
Your dog might tuck his tail under him because he’s a whippet or a greyhound – it’s a natural tail position for these types of breeds.
And a wagging tail does not always mean your dog is happy.
Tail position and movement are important in helping you work out what your dog is feeling.
To work out what your dog is saying to you with his tail, you need to look at three things:
– the height the tail is held (up, down, neutral)
– the amplitude (size) of the tail movements (none, whole tail, just the tip) and
– the speed of the movement (fast or slow)
When trying to work out what your dog is saying with his tail, always remember breed differences. For example, Husky types naturally carry their tails high over their backs. Terriers tails are often held upright and stiff.
In general:
-a low tail with just the end wagging usually indicates a lack of confidence or nervousness
– a slower speed wag means the dog is assessing the situation
– a friendly, happy, confident dog will wag his whole tail from side to side at a slow to medium speed at mid-height
– when greeting each other, dogs will often hold their tails out straight, wagged from side to side– this means they are slightly tense and ready for action if needed
– when a dog is not quite sure what’s happening you’ll see a tail held up or out but fairly still
An excited and deliriously happy dog will wag his tail all the way round – a windmill or helicopter tail.
A tail carried high or over the back usually signals arousal.
And beware the dog with a high tail where just the end wags fast, almost vibrating – trouble is likely to ensue. Turn and walk away.
There is more detail about tails and all the other ways dogs communicate in our Canine Communication course. The next course will be in the spring, so watch out for details.
Keep training,
Carol
PS We’d be happy to come out and help you work out what your dog is saying. Just ask. Check our training packages here: https://www.downdog.co.uk/PersonalTrainingPackage