Dog Body Language 101:
How To Read Your Dog’s Mood From Their Tail
Dog body language is an important part of successful dog training. It's essential for owners to learn how to read their pup's moods in order to build a better relationship with their pet. One of the most important indicators of a dog's mood is their tail. By understanding the different types of tail movements and their associated meanings, owners can gain a better understanding of what their pup is feeling. In this blog post, we'll explore the basics of Dog Body Language 101: How to Read Your Dog's Mood from Their Tail.
Tucked:
One of the most important dog body language cues to recognize is the tucked tail. When a dog's tail is tucked, it is a sign that they are scared, nervous, or anxious. This is often accompanied by other dog language cues such as lowered ears, head lowered, avoiding eye contact, and lip licking. If you notice your dog's tail is tucked, it is time to advocate for them. The best thing you can do in this situation is to remove your pup from the situation if you can and try to relax them with soft petting and calm tones. This can be a hard skill to master but it is a valuable tool that any dog owner or trainer should learn. With practice and patience, you will soon become an expert at reading your pup’s body language.
Low:
When a dog's tail is low, it is typically a sign of submission behavior. It shows the dog may be feeling uncertain or hesitant and needs reassurance.
Straight:
When a dog's tail is sticking straight out from the body, it can be an indication that they are on alert. This is a common dog body language cue for when dogs are assessing something or feeling tense. This is a good time to become extra observant and aware of your surroundings so you can be prepared to advocate for your dog. To help your pup relax, a good dog trainer will observe the environment and suggest any changes to make them more comfortable.
High:
When a dog's tail is raised high, they are exhibiting dominant behavior. When the tail is held straight up and stiff, this is a strong indicator that the dog is feeling tense and suspicious, and it may be difficult to break their focus. In this instance, it is important for owners to take note of their dog's body language cues and proceed with caution. If the tail is straight up and moving in short, swift movements, this could be a sign of both dominance and high stimulation. Advocating for your dog in these moments may look like stepping in between them and the stimulus that is causing them to fixate, or remove them from the situation entirely.
Wagging:
When a dog's tail is making wide swooshing movements, it is an indication that your pup is feeling relaxed, content, and even playful. This tail movement is one of the most iconic of dog body language cues and is often seen when a pup is greeting its owner or a familiar face. While a wagging tail is a sign of happiness, observing other body language cues alongside the tail movement will help you determine if your dog is feeling happy and safe. If a dog has a wagging tail accompanied by ears pointed forward, dilated pupils, and relaxed facial muscles, then it is likely that the dog is simply feeling joyous and content.