Why Do Dogs Wag Their Tails

Should you or should you not dock the tail of a dog? Some breeds like the Doberman Pinchers, German Short Haired Pointer, Rottweiler have docked tails. This cosmetic surgery is commonly done so that the dog will fit the standard set by the kennel club. Docking is a procedure usually done to working dogs for the purpose of protecting the tail from possible injuries. However, an owner that is aware why the dog wags its tail would possibly choose not to dock the pet’s tail. Have you ever wondered why dogs wag their tails?

Dogs are not the only animals with tails but tail wagging is usually manifested by dogs. Dogs have many uses for their tails. A well feathered tail is an asset that gets the dog lots of attention. The tail though has a more important role in the life of a dog. Retrievers use the tail as a rudder to make swimming easier and working dogs that need to negotiate cliffs and sharp curves use the tail as a balancing tool. Most importantly, the tail of the dog is mainly used as an effective communication tool.

Dogs cannot speak but they have a way of making humans understand what they want to convey through the use of body language. The expression of the eyes, the movement of the ears as well as the wagging of the tail enables the dog to communicate their emotions and to express their intentions .

The dog’s tail wagging is the counterpart of human’s smile and handshake. A smile is a simple and effortless way of making friends. Although dogs are known to be protective, these pets are also very friendly. To gain friends; the dog’s tail will do the talking. A dog with a happily wagging tail will get lots of human friends. An observant owner will be able to understand what the pet is feeling.

Fast wagging is indicative of excitement. A dog that happily wags the tail at the sight of the master is probably anticipating being walked or a treat. Being social animals, dog would thrive in an environment with a well defined hierarchy. The dog’s rank in the pack will be very evident by the way the tail is wagged. A tail held high and wagged slightly from side to side is a show of dominance. Lower ranked dogs wag tails that hare held lower slowly. Dogs wag the tail for identification purposes. When the tail is wagged, the anal glands are squeezed so that an odor distinct to every dog is released. These pheromones are used to determine the identity, the sex and the status of the dog.

Learn more about why dogs wag their tails and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.