Our pets bring us huge amounts of joy with their wet noses, adorable pointy ears, and happy tails. While the ears and nose both serve pretty similar functions in humans, we don’t have the benefit of a tail. But why do dogs have tails? It all comes from the evolution of their ancestors millions of years ago, and these appendages still prove quite useful to pups and other animals today. Here’s everything you need to know about tails in dogs.
Early fish may have sprouted tails to better swim in the ocean. But when those ancient creatures first stepped out on land, they kept their tails, which changed shape and size depending on their specific needs. Truly, nearly every vertebrate species in the animal kingdom has a tail, with very limited exceptions, including us.
Humans and apes like chimps are some of the few that have lost their tails to time. This probably happened because Homo sapiens walk in a very different way from our four-legged friends. Tails do a lot for our pets and help them in all kinds of ways that we don’t benefit from.
As we discussed, tails occur on many animals and help with several different things, including balance, swimming, communication, and even grip. Dogs, in particular, need tails to assist with many of these activities, although they are unfortunately unable to pick up objects with them. Here are the things dogs need tails for.
Help them move
Your pooch might need their tail even more than you think. Dogs frequently use this appendage to help them run and change direction, for example. As the American Kennel Club describes, “What you’re likely to see is your dog’s tail working to assist with skillful movement. As our dog needs to change direction while running, his body needs a little extra help. You’ll notice that your dog’s front legs will go in the direction that he intends to go, while the rear legs continue in the original direction. The tail, however, will also turn in the new direction.” That enables our buddies to turn on a dime and pull off the maneuvers you might see in a dog agility show.
Improve balance
Lots of animals use their tails for balance — you might picture the kangaroo as a superb example of this. But even though pup pups can’t stay upright on their tails, they still need them to move around successfully. In addition to our earlier running examples, a tail can help walk on a small ledge (cats are known for this ability in particular) and climb up a rocky slope. You might see their tail wagging in either of these scenarios as an extra aid, but of course, the biggest reason for that movement comes next.
Facilitate communication
Dogs didn’t evolve tails to communicate, but they have certainly added this to their tail repertoire. It’s one of the main things that they’re known for. Our little guys don’t just use their tails to talk to us either, they communicate with each other by tail as well. In fact, they tend to use their behinds in this manner even more with other animals, since part of their tail wagging is to spread their scent.
Wagging usually means that your dog is happy, but some pets have a nervous wag as well. Additionally, a tail down between their legs can indicate they’re afraid or acting submissive. Lastly, sometimes you can figure out your dog’s mood from their tail, whether they’re on the hunt, want a treat, or are excited for playtime.
Certainly, and many get by tailless with no problems. Historically, some dogs have had their tails docked to fit breeding standards, though that’s no longer recommended by vets. But if you adopt a sweet furry friend with no tail, like a Corgi or a French bulldog, which are frequently born without full tails, you don’t have to worry about your beastie getting along in their life. Our pets adapt quickly and won’t have any memory of needing their extra length to get on.
We probably would do better with a tail, but actually, we’re one of few mammals that lack this. Our dogs use theirs for numerous things including balance and communication. It’s important to allow your sweet pet to keep their tail if at all possible but plenty of dogs live successfully without one and adjust easily. Don’t worry too much if you bring home an animal that has no tail — you’ll learn how to interpret their moves no matter what.
If you’re thinking of bringing home a new dog, consider one of these elusive breeds
Some dog owners (and fans of dogs) can name dozens of dog breeds like the back of their hands, but others can't even tell the difference between a dachshund and a Corgi. That's OK! As long as a dog owner knows how to take good care of their fur baby, they don't necessarily need to know the fun facts. At the same time, learning about different dog breeds can be valuable in certain situations, whether you like watching dog shows or are considering volunteering at a rescue.
Even if it's just for fun, there's a lot you'll want to know about the six newest dog breeds in the show universe. The American Kennel Club (AKC) is one of the largest dog breed registries in the world, and it oversees the standards and requirements for each new breed that's created. Since 2021, it has welcomed six new breeds to its ranks, and you may have even seen these dogs in a local or televised dog show.
The 3-3-3 rule: A guide for adjusting your new dog to life at home
A rescue dog's timeline in their new home
Bringing home a new dog can be one of the most fun, joyful, and memorable things you'll ever do, but that doesn't mean it's always going to be a walk in the park. After all, adding four more paws to your family is a big decision to make, and it requires a lot of research, time, and care from everyone in your home. But if you do the research, practice consistency, and remain patient and loving with your new furry friend, you'll set yourself up for success!
In the dog rescue world, a tried-and-true rule called the 3-3-3 rule can help new dog parents learn what to expect and how to help their dog thrive during their first few months at home. This adjustment period is vital for everyone's feelings of safety and happiness in the family, but a little love, time, and patience go a long way. No two 3-3-3 rule dogs will be on the exact same timeline, but knowing this rule can give new adopters a sense of peace and understanding during an unstable time.
What is the 3-3-3 rule?
All about the smooth fox terrier: Personality traits, health outlook, and more
Do smooth fox terriers make great pets?
"Smooth like a fox" is an appropriate way to describe a smooth fox terrier. The dogs in this breed certainly live up to their name — they're sly and mischievous yet so friendly that you can't help but laugh and love them. It doesn't hurt that smooth fox terriers are as cute as they come. Their V-shaped, high-perched ears are constantly perked. Their head — with also V-shaped snouts — are often cocked with those melt-worthy brown eyes following your every move (especially to the fridge).
Smooth fox terriers can make excellent pets for many kinds of households. However, like all dogs, they have their quirks and preferences. While no two dogs are alike, it's a good idea to research breed characteristics before welcoming a pet to your home to ensure the match works for everyone. Here's what to know about the smooth fox terrier's physical and personality traits, health outlook, and care.
Physical characteristics of a smooth fox terrier
