Why Do Dogs Tuck Their Tails When Scared
Chihuahua
Usually we think dogs tuck their tails because they feel scared or frightened, but what exactly is the principle behind it?
In fact, the meaning of a dog tucking its tail is not about the tail itself, but about the area beneath it. By lowering the tail and tightly tucking it between the hind legs, a timid dog effectively blocks the scent signals emitted from its anal region. We know that wild dog packs have strict hierarchical relationships, and tail tucking has become an important signal — a humble gesture by the weak in front of the strong.
Therefore, when we see a dog tucking its tail in daily life, we can understand it as the dog feeling intimidated, fearful, and wanting to escape from an enemy. The primary function of tail tucking is undoubtedly to control scent signals, but as a secondary visual signal, it is also significant and cannot be ignored.