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What is the function of a dog's tail?

Pet Knowledge
This article is provided by Veterinarian Dr. Ethan Carter
A dog's tail mainly has three functions: expressing its emotions, maintaining body balance, and spreading scent. First of all, dogs can express their emotions through the swing range of their tails and their raising status. The owner can also judge the dog's mood through the state of the dog's tail. Secondly, when the dog is running and jumping, the dog can also use its tail to maintain the balance of the body. Finally, dogs have the habit of marking with urine, and the fanning of the tail is conducive to the spread of scent, thereby distributing their own body information to other dogs.

1. Express one's emotions

A dog's tail is an important part for expressing emotions, and the position, amplitude and frequency of the tail's swing are also different when dogs are in different emotions. When a dog feels happy and joyful, it will wave its tail vigorously, and when it is nervous or scared, it will tuck its tail.

2. Maintain body balance

The main function of a dog’s tail is to maintain balance, allowing the dog to walk steadily and make difficult jumps easily Or the action of climbing. When the dog is swimming or passing through a relatively narrow place, the tail also plays a role in maintaining balance and can avoid nearby obstacles to avoid being hit.

3. Spread the smell

There is a special gland in the dog’s butt that can secrete its own special smell. When wagging its tail, the dog can spread its own smell. The smell travels farther, which also helps them meet new friends.

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