These days it seems almost every household has a dog and is known as ‘man’s best friend,’ it’s easy to understand why. But do you own a dog? Does your friend, neighbor, or colleague have a pet dog?
If the answer to any of those was ‘yes,’ then at some point in time, the questions and assumptions surrounding dogs and their tail wagging must have come up.
So let’s break down a few common thoughts on this quirky animal habit and whether or not they are consciously aware it is happening.
Are Dogs Aware of Their Tails?
Dogs are indeed aware that their tails are connected to their bodies. It is something they learn as they grow from puppies to full-size. They begin to understand that they can move them by choice, feel and respond to touch.
However, they vary in sensitivity, so it is always best to practice serious cautiousness when thinking about stroking or playing with a dog’s tail.
Do Dogs Wag Their Tails When They Are Happy?
It is a common belief that a dog will wag its tail if it is happy. However, there is much more to this overlooked and sometimes misunderstood behavior.
Whilst the dog may indeed be happy, depending on the height and speed of the tail, wag may also indicate anxiety, curiosity, fear, or even aggression.
If the dog is indeed happy, it would be in a slightly elevated position with a smooth rhythm when wagging its tail. If the tail is wagging at a rapid speed in this position, it can indicate that it is thrilled or borderline ecstatic. Both are a safe signal that the dog is indeed happy.
Do Dogs Wag Their Tails When They Are Alone?
Unless something particular catches a dog’s attention whilst, on its own, dogs do not wag their tails.
When they are alone, dogs are more likely to chase their tails than wag them to release excess energy. This is more common in puppies than older dogs, as they have a lot more energy to burn off.
Dogs do not need or want to wag their tails when they are alone, as they have nothing to respond to emotionally.
Is Tail Wagging An Instinct?
Although tail wagging is, in fact, instinctive to a dog as it is a way of communication with humans and other animals, too, the shape, size, and movement of the tail will vary depending on the breed.
The dog can control the movement depending on how it wants to react to a certain situation or feel, but they do not control the initial wagging; that is pure instinct.
How Often Do Dogs Do It?
Dogs are not born wagging their tails. Because of this, some experts think it is a socially learned behavior.
When a dog is in a resting, calm position and state of mind, the dog’s tail will also be at rest. Therefore, they only wag their tails when something triggers their senses.
A dog will not be wagging its tail all day long, but often throughout the day, as you go about your routine and interact with the dog, its tail will wag in a specific way that can indicate how it is feeling.
Final Thoughts on Do Dogs Wag Their Tails Consciously
The position and style of a dog’s tail can tell you a lot about what a dog is thinking and feeling and isn’t to be underestimated.
The pattern of movement, speed, and even the breadth of each tail sweep are all informative indicators of what the dog may be thinking or feeling.
It is true dogs do wag their tails consciously and instinctively, and depending on their current circumstances, they are the best guide to understanding a dog’s thoughts and feelings.
However, although your canine companion’s tail wag may tell you a lot, be sure to look out for other signs such as posture, facial expressions (such as teeth showing), and body movements to help understand your dog.