Tail wagging by dogs

Within Canidae, specifically Canis lupus familiaris, the tail plays multiple roles, which can include balance, and communication.

Tail wagging can be used as a social signal within species and convey the emotional state of the dog.

[4] The tail wagging behavior of a dog may not always be an indication of its friendliness or happiness, as is commonly believed.

[7] One hypothesis states that the asymmetries are actually evolved and are kept as evolutionarily stable strategies, that aid dogs in detecting when they should interact with each other.

[1] The direction, as well as height and width of the tail wag can convey important cues about the social condition of the animal.

[8] Different colourations and patterns, contrasting tip are likely evolved to improve communication with the tail.

[10] When the tail is held at maximum height it is a demonstration of dominance and can also indicate a positive demeanour.

Dogs exhibit a striking side bias of tail wags when encountered with different situations.

[12] This may be because it is easier to interpret the social cues expressed by a longer tail, compared to a short one.