Have you ever wondered why dogs have a tail? We have put together 12 questions and the answers to dog tails. What does it mean when a dog wags its tail? The most common misinterpretation of dogs is the myth that a dog wagging its tail is happy and friendly. While some wags do mean your dog is happy, others can mean fear, insecurity, a social challenge or even a warning. Why does a dog have a tail? Dog use their tails to communicate — from the wide, sweeping wag of a happy dog to the tail between the legs to show they are scared. In canines, a tail may also serve as a type of rudder to help stabilize dogs in the water. Why does my dog have his tail down? If your dog feels nervous or submissive, he’ll hold his tail lower and might even tuck it between his rear legs. He may still wag it from side to side, often at a more rapid pace than if he’s relaxed. If he’s scared or feeling submissive, he’ll hold his tail tucked up tight against his belly. Why is my dog’s tail tucked under? Dogs keep their tails tucked because of emotional distress. When dogs feel depressed, frustrated, stressed, or afraid, they may tuck their tails to show their emotions. Why does a dog have a curly tail? In general, the condition that causes a dog to have a curly tail will only affect the tail itself. In fact, a curled tail is a specific breed trait, such as the case for pugs or bulldogs. Most of the time, tails can be traced back to specialized breeding that has been going on for generations. What does it mean when a dog chases its tail? Dogs will sometimes chase their tails because they are being bothered by worms or fleas. Or they may be experiencing some other kind of medical issue. Breeds like German shepherds and terriers tend to engage in tail. Why is my dog chewing on his tail? Chewing is often due to allergies. Inflammation of the skin, or dermatitis, caused by fleas and ticks. Environmental allergies — from pollen to household chemicals can give rise to allergic reactions. Can dogs sprain their tails? Having a sprained dog tail is very painful for your dog. Not only will you notice a hanging tail, but it will also be very painful when touched. When dogs are in pain, they’ll hide, pant, pace, drool, widen their eyes and become restless. Some injured dogs even refuse to eat or move What is limber tail? Limber tail syndrome, or acute caudal myopathy, is a disorder of the muscles in the tail. This usually affects working dogs. Limber Tail syndrome is an injury occurring in sporting or working dogs. Common breeds include English Pointers, English Setters, Foxhounds, Beagles, and Labrador Retrievers. What is the tail of a dog made of? The tail is actually an extension of the dog’s backbone. Some dog tails are long, while others are small stubs. The muscles and bones in the tail work together to create movement. How many bones are in a dog’s tail? Dogs do have bones in their tails. Dog tails are the last section of the dog’s spine. A dog’s tail can include as many as 23 vertebrae. Do dogs feel pain in their tail? That’s because the tail DOES have pain receptors, but they do not react the same when relaxed as when excited. By the way, because a dog does not feel pain does not mean they cannot do damage. Many a dog has damaged their tail, split is open, or done other things to it while wagging the tail. Pet care advice when you need it the most. If your pet is unwell our 24/7 advice service may help save you an unnecessary trip to the vet. Speak to a vet or vet nurse by phone, chat, and video. Our pet care service also offers behavioural and nutritional support, to help you take care of your pet. Learn more about our petconnect service Do you need pet insurance? We understand being a pet parent can be tough, especially if your pet becomes ill or gets injured. It’s important to consider pet insurance if you have a pet, as cover can help cover the cost of vet fees should your cat or dog need to visit the vet. Compare our insurance plans and get a quote through our website using the following link. Get a quote for your pet