Chapter 12Pets & Animals

Do dogs wag tails when happy?

Not always. A wag means arousal — could be excitement, fear, or aggression. Read the whole body: loose wiggle = happy; stiff high wag = alert or threatened; low fast wag = anxious.

Follow-up questions

Left or right side matters?

Studies suggest right-side wagging = positive emotion; left = negative. Subtle but real.

Why do puppies bite?

Play and teething. Redirect to a toy every time; don't yelp dramatically — many dogs read that as play.

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