interpreting tail wagging

When Kane and I approach unfamiliar dogs, outside of our puppy parties, I always take note of the tail expression of the other dog and whether they step back. Kane always wags his tail.

A study last year showed that even tail wagging is directional depending on mood. Italian researchers reported in Current Biology (Vol 17, R199-R201, 20 March 2007) that the happier dog wags to the right.

I'll have to be more observant. Most dogs saying hello to Kane tend to wag their tails widely, both to the right and left.

Dogs who aren't wagging their tail and who step back we tend to avoid.

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So glad the week is over.