Do you ever wonder what a wagging tail means? Doodle body language isn’t hard to read. A relaxed wagging tail and a little smile is how a doodle is going to greet almost everything. It’s helpful to know what canine body language to look for when you’re out with your Doodle and run into an unfamiliar dog. A wagging tail doesn’t necessarily mean a dog is happy to see you.
A happy friendly dog will have relaxed ears, be wagging his tail in wide sweeps, have relaxed lips, possibly licking. He may roll over exposing his tummy. An uncertain dog will have an overall more tense demeanor. His ears will be held a little more erect, his tail wag will be a little tighter, his jaw will be firm. He won’t take a submissive position of exposing his tummy. This dog is uncertain, he may accept your approach, but proceed slowly – let him smell the back of your hand, pet under his jaw before attempting to pet his head.
The aggressive dog will probably be wagging his tail, the different style will be noticeable. His tail will be stiff and wagging will be tight, his ears will be back, the hair on his back will be standing. Initially he may just have a tight mouth, progressing to snarling as you continue to approach. Now is the time for you and your Doodle to slowly back away. This guy is the reason you carry a can of pepper spray in your pocket. While he may accept you backing away, he may still want to show his dominance over your Doodle. If he attacks your dog, do NOT attempt to separate them with your hands. Aim the pepper spray at the aggressive dog’s face, it should make the bully back off and give your Doodle time to skedaddle.
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