Why it happens
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A broad, loose wag
The tail sweeps widely at mid-height, the whole rear end sways, the body is soft and the mouth open. This is joy and friendliness, the kind you see when you come home.
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A high, stiff tail
The tail is held above the line of the back and only flicks quickly, while the body is tense and the stare fixed. The dog is alert and aroused and may be ready to defend itself or attack, so do not approach.
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A low or tucked tail
A tail held low or tucked between the legs, even if the tip is wagging, means fear, anxiety or a wish to avoid trouble. A dog like this wants distance, not a stroke.
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A slow, hesitant wag
A slow sweep with the tail at mid-height means the dog has not yet made sense of the situation and is weighing up what to do. Let it decide for itself whether to come closer.
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Breed changes the picture
Huskies and spitz breeds carry their tails curled over the back, sighthounds hold theirs low, and some breeds have short tails. Learn how your dog's tail looks when it is relaxed, and read the other body signals too.
What children need to know
A wagging tail does not mean "you can stroke me". Teach children not to touch a dog they do not know without the owner's permission, to let the dog come and sniff them first, and not to hug it, kiss its muzzle or stare into its eyes up close. Leave a dog that is eating, chewing or sleeping alone, and step away if it turns aside, freezes or licks its lips.
What helps
- Look at the whole dog The tail is only part of the message. Watch the ears, eyes, mouth and posture as well: a soft, wiggly body and a relaxed mouth say more than any tail.
- Let the dog come to you Stand side-on, do not lean over the dog and do not reach over its head. If it comes up and sniffs you, stroke its chest or side, not its head.
- Recognise "that's enough" If a dog you are stroking turns away, yawns, licks its lips, freezes or its tail goes still, stop and give it space. Never scold a growl: it is a warning that helps prevent a bite.
- Know your own dog Notice how your dog holds its tail when it is relaxed, playing and frightened. You will then spot sooner when something changes.
- Supervise children and dogs Do not leave small children alone with a dog, even the gentlest family dog. An adult nearby can spot tension in time and separate them.
When it is a question for a vet
See a vet if the dog suddenly no longer lifts or wags its tail, or it hangs limp from the base, for example after swimming, a long play session or a knock, if the tail hurts when touched or is injured, if the dog struggles to squat or pass stools, or if for no clear reason it has started keeping its tail tucked and hiding.