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Tail positions are another means by which dogs can communicate a ‘message’. There are some tail positions which have more than one meaning depending on the circumstance. For example, when a dog’s tail is down, it could be that the dog is resting or relaxed but, depending on the other signals, it could also mean that the dog is stressed. Aloff explains stress signals by stating ‘This... moreTail positions are another means by which dogs can communicate a ‘message’. There are some tail positions which have more than one meaning depending on the circumstance. For example, when a dog’s tail is down, it could be that the dog is resting or relaxed but, depending on the other signals, it could also mean that the dog is stressed. Aloff explains stress signals by stating ‘This animal is stressed: eyes averted, ears held out to the side, tail down. There is a rigidity…that tells us these are not signs of neutrality, but of anxiety. The Look Away is one of avoidance, not approachability.’ (Aloff, 2005, p. 40) Alternatively, the down tail be part of a play posture when one dog is stalking another. Aloff explains the signals by explaining ‘The dog…is Stalking the [other] dog…during Play. The dog…has the lowered-head, tail-down, ears-up silhouette of the typical Stalking dog. Her eyes are fixed on her “prey.” Her closed mouth indicates that this dog is ready for the Pounce.’ (Aloff, 2005, p. 253) view page