What is what does it mean when a dog tucks its tail?

A dog tucking its tail can mean a variety of things, but it's most commonly associated with fear, anxiety, or submission. Here's a breakdown:

• Fear/Anxiety: When a dog is scared or anxious, it might tuck its tail to protect it. The tail is a sensitive part of their body, and tucking it makes it less vulnerable. Other signs of fear or anxiety include:

  • Whining or whimpering
  • Panting excessively
  • Trembling
  • Lip licking
  • Yawning (when not tired)
  • Ears pulled back

• Submission: A tucked tail can also signal submission to a perceived authority figure, whether it's a human or another dog. This is a way for the dog to show that it's not a threat and to avoid confrontation. Other signs of submission include:

  • Avoiding eye contact
  • Crouching or lowering the body
  • Rolling onto their back
  • Licking the face of the dominant individual

• Pain or Illness: In some cases, a tucked tail can indicate pain or illness. If the tuck is sudden and unusual, and your dog is exhibiting other signs of discomfort (e.g., reluctance to move, loss of appetite), it's important to consult a veterinarian.

• Happy Tail Tuck: Rarely, a slight tail tuck accompanied by a wagging tail can indicate happiness. This is often seen in dogs with long tails that can't wag freely without hitting things. However, this is less common than the fear/anxiety or submission explanations.