Body language explained

PART 2: THE TAIL

Most of us believe that a wagging tail is just a sign of a happy dog, but few of us recognise that a wagging tail can also signal anger, aggression or anxiety. People sometimes describe a 'happy-looking' dog lunging at another dog 'out of the blue'. This 'unexpected' behaviour is in fact, entirely expected when one realises that a wagging tail is a sign of arousal, both positive and negative.

AROUSAL

Arousal is simply a hyper-alert state. Your dog's heart rate rises, their reaction times decrease, and their senses become extra sensitive. If your dog's tail is wagging because you've just walked through the door or because you're about to throw a ball, they are alert because they are excited and happy. But, if their tail is wagging because they are patrolling the edge of the garden and they've just spotted a squirrel, they might be alert because they're gearing up for a chase.

TWO ELEMENTS – POSITION AND SPEED

The position of your dog's tail can give you more information about exactly how they're feeling.

The speed of your dog's tail can also indicate their emotional state.

TAIL POSITION

1. Circular swish – A dog whose tail swishes back and forth or makes a helicopter impression is a happy and relaxed pup.

2. Tucked tail – If your dog tucks their tail between their hind legs, they're feeling anxious, stressed or submissive. The further they tuck, the more worried they are.

3. Tail wagging swiftly – A dog who is excited may wag his tail stiffly while jumping, spinning or lifting his rump in the air. This excitement may be positive or negative.

4. Tail held horizontally – A tail held straight out indicates a dog who is attentive and alert or perhaps curious about something nearby.

5. Hanging loose – A loose tail with a gentle wag is a sign of a contented dog, especially if the wag leans right. A leftward lean can mean caution.

6. Sudden tail raise – When a dog moves his tail from a downward position to a vertical position, it can signify aggression or high excitement. It's an indicator that their fight or flight response might be active.

WAG SPEED

1. Quick wag – A brief wag usually happens during meetings when a dog feels a bit hesitant.

2. Big, wide wag – This indicates a friendly, content dog.

3. Slow, reluctant wag – This can indicate a dog who is feeling anxious.

4. Tiny, high-speed wag – A tail that moves in short, vibrating bursts can be a sign that a dog is about to run or fight.

DID YOU KNOW?

Wagging their tails is a form of communication – dogs don't wag their tails when alone!