Most pet owners tend to assume that when a dog wags its tail, it means the dog is happy. While it’s true that a dog’s tail is often a good indicator of its mood, the truth is that there’s more to tail wags than meets the eye.

Here’s what dog tail language can tell you so you can understand your furry friend better.

What tail position can tell you about a dog’s mood?

A dog’s tail position is one of the most crucial indicators of its mood and intentions. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.

Tail held high and wagging

If a dog’s tail is held high and wagging, it signifies that the dog is happy and confident. This kind of tail wag is generally spacious and shown at a moderate pace.

It’s a sign that the dog is comfortable and excited and is a friendly social cue.

Tail held high and stiff

If a dog’s tail is held high, but the tail is also rigid and immobile, it suggests that the dog is feeling alert, tense or possibly aggressive. A dog may hold its tail upright to make itself appear more significant than it is.

This kind of tail position is often seen in more dominant dogs who are trying to establish their authority.

Tail held low and wagging

A dog that wags its tail while holding it low often signifies submission or nervousness. It could also mean that the dog is uneasy about something in its surroundings.

Dogs often make themselves look smaller when they’re uncomfortable, hence the drooped tail.

Tail held low and stiff

If a dog holds its tail low and stiff, it may signify aggression. The dog may be about a fight or protecting something in its vicinity.

Tail tucked between the legs

If a dog tucks its tail between the legs, it usually indicates anxiety, fear, or submission. Dogs may do this for a variety of reasons, but generally, this is one of the most definite signs that a dog is scared or stressed.

But sometimes wagging tail does not signify something positive

A wagging tail doesn’t always indicate that a dog is delighted or friendly on all occasions. Sometimes, your dog could send a false positive signal to others, mistaking a wagging tail as an invitation for petting or playing.

Although your dog does not mean any harm, this can put him/her in a wrong position and creates a miscommunication gap.

In some cases, during interactions with other dogs or animals, a dog may wag its tail to indicate a warning rather than happiness.

In such situations, it’s important to watch the tail carefully to see if the wag is fast, stiff, and excessive, as this could indicate that the interaction is not friendly. Growing aggression or agitation may lead to a more serious situation like the dog biting towards the other animal.

Conclusion

Dogs may use their tails to communicate with you and other dogs. A wagging tail can be a sign of happiness, excitement, and friendliness. However, tail position is critical, and your dog may signal its mood and intent clearly through tail movement.

By understanding your dog’s tail language, you can better respond to his/her needs and ensure that he/she is safe and happy in any situation.