I often hear the dog's tail was wagging. This does not mean the dog is always happy. It's important to read the whole-body language. Studies have shown that a dog's tail will wag to their right when they are feeling confident and happy. As I'm looking at dogs' tail, I will often go to the base of the tail where it is attached to the body and observe from that point and out to towards the tip.
If you have ever noticed a dog that is frightened the tail will often go to the right.
I have one dog that has often showed a circle wag. Her tail will spin like a helicopter. What does this mean? She is a very happy dog!
A dog's tail can tell a lot, but I encourage you to observe the whole-body language. You can learn much about your dog as you are with them.
Mecca Curtice, CDBC, CCDT
© Mecca's All Breed Dog Training, LLC.