Understanding Dog Tail Wagging
We often associate a 'waggy tail' with a happy dog. However, recent research suggests that tail wagging is not solely a sign of a dog's happiness. A dog's tail is a communicative tool used to express various emotions to other animals and their owners. Misinterpretation of this can lead to dangerous situations for both veterinary staff and owners.
Why Do Dogs Wag Their Tails?
Dogs wag their tails to express a range of emotions including happiness, nervousness, feeling threatened, anxiety, submission, and excitement.
When a dog is relaxed, its tail will be in a resting position, which varies depending on the breed. Emotions trigger tail wagging. The pace and position of the wag often convey the dog's emotion.
- A frightened or submissive dog will often hold its tail down and possibly wag it a little between its legs.
- Dogs that are alert or excited will hold their tail higher than the natural position and wag it furiously.
- A curious dog will often hold its tail straight out, while an aggressive dog will often have a very stiff, vertical tail.
Research Findings
Recent research shows that the direction of the tail wag can communicate complex emotions to other dogs. Dogs convey positive emotions by wagging their tail slightly to the right and negative emotions by wagging slightly to the left.
Observer dogs were shown to have a slower heart rate and adopt a more relaxed posture if they were shown images of dogs wagging their tail slightly to the right. Conversely, if they were shown a dog wagging its tail slightly to the left, the observer dogs would have an increased heart rate and adopt a more defensive posture.
Research in other species, including humans, has shown that the left side of the brain controls positive emotions, and the right side controls negative emotions. Therefore, the theory about the wags to the left and the right conveying emotion is thought to be related to the brain's 'hard wiring'.
Tails Aren’t Just for Communication
Dogs don't use their tails purely for communication. They also use it to aid in balance and stability. For instance, watching a dog turn at high speed in slow motion can reveal how it uses its tail for stability. It also acts as a rudder if the dog is swimming in water.
Conclusion
A wagging tail doesn't necessarily mean a happy or friendly dog. It is simply a sign of a dog interacting with its environment.
It's crucial to speak to a dog's owner before petting, as misinterpretation of a tail wag can lead to a nasty bite! Children are often the victims of such misinterpretation, so it's vital to ensure they're aware that they must only touch a dog if they've been told it's allowed.
For more information, talk to one of our Pet Experts and get customized advice by submitting a request on our Mavyn website.