Whether you’re a pet owner or not, we automatically assume that when dogs wag its tail, it means they’re happy. But recent research shows that your dog’s tail wagging is more than just being in a good mood. Here are some interesting facts about the dog’s tail wagging that you should know.

There are a lot of reasons why dogs wag their tails. Here are the following:

  • To express emotions.

When you see a dog in a relaxed mood, its tail sits in a resting position. The position varies on the dog’s breed. The tail that is held down or with a little bit of wagging in between legs means the dog is frightened or submissive. A tail held higher than the natural positions means the dog is alert or excited and wags excessively if he’s happy to see you. A curious dog will hold its tail straight out while an aggressive dog has a very stiff, vertical tail. Studies have proven that when dogs wag their tails to the right it shows that they’re happy, and when the tail is wagged to the left, it means they are frightened.

  • To communicate with humans and other animals

Dogs wag their tails to other dogs, humans, and other animals like cats to communicate. They use their tails and other body languages as a means to convey their messages and this may somehow avoid unnecessary conflicts. Interestingly, dogs don’t wag their tail when they’re alone. 

  • To spread their natural scent

Dogs wag their tails to spread their natural scent present in their butts and their scent is distinct to every dog. Dogs have their scent glands located near their butts. These glands secrete a musky odor and when dogs wag their tails, the muscle surrounding the butt contracts pressing the scent gland and thus, releasing their scent.