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Dogs Using
Their Tails As Signals & Gestures
Tail
position is an important indicator of social standing and mental state
of a dog. There will be some variations, of course, depending upon the
natural tail position of the dog: a West Highland white terrier will
carry its carrot-shaped tail higher than a golden retriever its
flowing, feathery tail, and a greyhound's relaxed tail position is
lower yet.
Almost horizontal, pointing away from the dog but not stiff: This is a
sign of attention. It roughly translates as "Something interesting may
be happening here."
Straight out horizontally, pointing away from the dog: This is part of
an initial challenge when meeting a stranger or an intruder. It roughly
translates as "Let's establish who's boss here."
Tail up, between the horizontal and vertical position: This is the sign
of a dominant dog, or one who is asserting dominance, and translates as
"I'm boss here."
Tail up and slightly curved over the back: "I'm top dog," this says. It
is the expression of a confident, dominant dog who feels in control.
Tail held lower than the horizontal but still some distance from the
legs: "I'm relaxed." "All is well."
Tail down, near hind legs: This changes its meaning with the posture of
the dog. If the legs are still straight and the tail slightly brushes
back and forth, it means "I'm not feeling well" or "I'm a bit
depressed." If the legs are slightly bent inward, giving a slight
downward slope to the back it means "I'm feeling a bit insecure,"
especially in an unknown setting or situation.
Tail
tucked between the legs: "I'm frightened!" or "Don't hurt me!" This is
especially common in the presence of a dominant dog or person, when it
can also mean, "I accept my lowly role in the pack, and I'm not trying
to challenge you.
Bristling hair down the tail: The bristle in the dog's tail is a sign
of aggression. It may modify any tail position. Thus, with the straight
out it means "I'm ready to fight if you are!" and with the tail
slightly up or over the back it means "I'm not afraid of you and will
fight to prove I'm boss."
Crick or sharp bend in the tail when held high: This is more
characteristic of the dogs that look like wolves, such as the German
shepherds, and means much the same as the tail bristling. It is the
precursor to possible aggression.
Broad tail wag: "I like you." This is often shown during play, when one
dog seems to be attacking the other, pouncing, growling, and barking.
The wagging tail serves as reassurance that this is all in fun. It also
means "I'm pleased" in many contexts.
Slow tail wag, with tail at half-mast: During dog training, I interpret
this as "I'm trying to understand you. I want to know what you mean,
but I just can't quite figure it out." When the dog finally solves the
problem, the speed and size of the tail wags will usually markedly
increase.
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Dogs Using Their
Tails As Signals & Gestures
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