12/11/2021
A TALE ABOUT TAILS
A wagging tail doesn’t always mean a happy dog.
It’s commonly believed that a waggy tail means a happy dog, but that isn’t always the case. Whether it’s long, short, curly or straight, the tail is a very important communication tool.
Before we try to learn the language of a tail, it’s important to recognise that the neutral or natural position of a dog’s tail differs between breeds. Beagles may naturally hold their tails pointing straight up, while Greyhounds and Whippets, naturally look like their tail is held between their legs. Pugs and Bostons have tails that coil up against their back and may not wag at all.
A wag to the right generally indicates that dogs are happy or excited, while a wag to the left is usually from uncertainty, fear anxiety or other negative feelings. This makes sense from a neurological point of view because each side of a dog's brain controls opposite sides of his body. The left side of the brain controls emotions like love and attachment while the right-side controls feelings like fear or anxiety. So, when a dog is happy the left side of the brain causes the tail to wag right and when a dog is not happy the right brain causes it to sway left.
Besides communication, the tail also functions as a rudder when swimming and is important for balance, especially when running as it allows for fast turning without falling over.
When we understand the function of the tail and how important it is, it’s difficult to comprehend why many owners / breeders chose to dock a dog’s tail. Some observational studies have shown that there are a higher number of aggressive incidents involving dogs with docked tails. This is not surprising, as an important communication tool is missing. Thankfully this inhumane and cruel mutilation practice has been made illegal in many countries.
Have a look at what your dog’s tail is doing in different situations. It’s so interesting to watch (at least for me!) and can tell you so much about how your dog is feeling.
