Dogs have an array of body language cues to communicate their emotions, and one of the most well-known is tail wagging. But what does it actually mean when a dog wags its tail? Through scientific research, we can gain a better understanding of this behavior and learn more about how our canine companions express themselves.

Why Do Dogs Wag Their Tails?

Dogs do use their tails to communicate, though a wagging tail doesn't always  mean they want to be patted. Dogs have a kind of language that's based on the position and motion of their tails. The position of a dog's tail reveals its emotional state.

This natural position differs between breeds. The tails of most dogs, for example, hang down near their hocks, or heels. But pugs have tails that curl upward, and greyhounds have tails that rest slightly between their legs.

If a dog is nervous or submissive, it'll hold its tail lower than its natural position, and will tuck its tail under its body if it's scared. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a tail held higher than normal may indicate the dog is aroused by something, while a vertical tail indicates aggression.,
A tail held straight out means the dog is curious about something.,
Tail wagging reflects a dog's excitement, with more vigorous wagging relating to greater excitement.

According to a study documented in  2007 in the journal Current Biology,  neuroscientist Giorgio Vallortigara and his veterinarian colleagues discovered that the way a dog wags it's tail also gives clues about what it's feeling. Specifically, a tail wagging to the right indicates positive emotions, and a tail wagging to the left indicates negative emotions.

This phenomenon has to do with the fact that the brain's left hemisphere controls the right side of the body, and vice versa. Research on the approach-avoidance behavior of other animals has shown that the left hemisphere is associated with positive-approach feelings, and the right hemisphere is associated with negative-avoidance feelings.

The Anatomy of a Wagging Tail.

 To understand why dogs wag their tails, it's important to first examine their anatomy. Dogs have a tail that is comprised of multiple vertebrae and muscles, which allows for flexibility and movement. The position and direction of the tail can communicate different emotions - for example, a high and stiff tail usually signals alertness or aggression, while a low and relaxed tail suggests a calm demeanor. When dogs wag their tails, they are using specific muscles to move it in a horizontal direction.

A Mode of Communication.

For dogs, wagging their tail is a form of communication. It serves as a nonverbal way for them to express their emotions and convey messages to other dogs or humans. A wagging tail can indicate that a dog is happy, excited, nervous, or scared. It's important for dog owners to pay attention to the context in which their dog is wagging their tail to accurately interpret its meaning. Additionally, some breeds are known for having unique tail-wagging styles, such as circular or figure-eight motions, which can also convey different emotions. By understanding the science behind tail-wagging behavior, dog owners can gain valuable insights into their furry friend's feelings and strengthen their bond with them.

Different Types of Tail Wagging and Their Meanings.

Dogs use a variety of tail wagging movements to express different emotions. A slow, wide wag with the tail held at mid-height usually indicates a relaxed and happy dog. On the other hand, a stiff, rapid wag with the tail held high and bristled can indicate aggression or excitement. In addition to speed and height, the direction of the tail movement also matters. A wag tilted towards the right side could indicate positive feelings like joy or excitement, while a leftward tilt could suggest negative emotions like fear or anxiety. It's worth noting that tail-wagging behavior should always be considered in context with other body language cues to accurately interpret what your dog is feeling.

Emotional Triggers for Tail Wagging.

Dogs wag their tails to communicate a range of emotions, from happiness and excitement to fear or anxiety. A dog's tail-wagging behavior is controlled by the limbic system, the same part of the brain responsible for processing emotions in humans. When a dog feels joyful or relaxed, dopamine is released in their brain, which causes tail wagging. On the other hand, when a dog feels anxious or scared, different brain chemicals like cortisol and adrenaline are released which can also trigger tail wagging. So while tail-wagging is generally seen as a happy behavior, it can also be a sign that something is bothering your furry friend. It's important to pay attention to other body language cues like ear position and vocalisations to understand your dog's emotional state.

When a Wagging Tail Doesn't Mean Happiness.

While tail wagging is often associated with happiness, it’s important to understand that it can also indicate other emotions. For example, a dog may wag its tail slowly or hold its tail low while still wagging, which could mean anxiety or fear. On the other hand, a fast and high tail wag could signify excitement or arousal. To fully understand your dog’s emotions, it’s important to pay attention to their overall body language and behaviors in addition to tail wagging. By observing your furry friend's communication cues, you can better connect and empathise with them.

© weknowpets 2023