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10 Dog Breeds With The Most Enthusiastic Wagging Tails

Written by: Ejay Camposano
A college graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ejay has a diverse background that combines technical expertise with a passion for pets and is now one of the content writers at IHD. Read more
| Published on May 28, 2024

Dogs have a wonderful way of showing their excitement and happiness, and nothing does the job quite like a wagging tail. From joyful greetings to playful antics, a dog’s tail is often a barometer of its mood. Some breeds, however, take tail wagging to a whole new level of enthusiasm. These dogs wag with such vigor and delight that it’s hard not to smile when you see them in action. If you’re in need of a daily dose of happiness, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 dog breeds with the most enthusiastic wagging tails, complete with their quirky habits and charming personalities. Get ready to meet some tail-wagging champions that will brighten your day!

10. Beagle

Beagles are known for their boundless energy and friendly nature, and their tails never stop wagging. These little hounds have a zest for life that is contagious. Whether they’re sniffing out a new scent or greeting their favorite humans, Beagles wag their tails with an enthusiasm that’s hard to match. One of their quirks is their “singing”—Beagles have a distinctive baying howl that they often use to express their excitement. Combine that with their ever-wagging tails, and you’ve got a dog that’s always ready to spread joy.

9. Boxer

Boxers are known for their playful and exuberant personalities, and their tails are no exception. These dogs wag with such enthusiasm that their entire back end often gets in on the action. Boxers are notorious for their “kidney bean dance,” where they twist their bodies into a semi-circle while wagging their tails furiously. One of their quirks is their love for boxing with their front paws, a behavior that adds to their clownish charm. If you’re looking for a dog that will keep you entertained with its antics, the Boxer is a perfect choice.

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8. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh Corgis may have short legs, but they have big personalities and even bigger tail wags. These dogs are full of energy and love to be the center of attention. Their tails wag with such enthusiasm that their whole behind wiggles along with it. One of their quirks is their herding instinct—they often try to herd other animals, children, and even adults, which can lead to some amusing situations. Corgis are also known for their expressive faces and ability to communicate a wide range of emotions with just a look.

7. Brittany Spaniel

Brittany Spaniels are cheerful and energetic dogs that are always up for an adventure. Their tails are in constant motion, wagging furiously at the prospect of a new game or a fun outing. One of the Brittany’s most endearing quirks is its “butt wiggle”—when they get excited, their entire back end wags along with their tail. It’s impossible not to smile when a Brittany Spaniel greets you with this full-body wag. They also have a habit of “pointing” at birds and other small animals, even when they’re not on a hunt, which can lead to some hilarious moments during walks.

6. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and their tail-wagging skills are legendary. These dogs are friendly, outgoing, and always ready for a good time. Labs are known for their love of water and will happily splash around in any available body of water, their tails wagging all the while. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for families with children, and they have a knack for turning any activity into a game. Labs also have a special talent for carrying things in their mouths, often bringing you random objects as if to say, “Look what I found!”

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5. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and tolerant nature, making them one of the most beloved dog breeds. These dogs are always happy and eager to please, with a wagging tail and a big smile for everyone they meet. Goldens are known for their love of retrieving, whether it’s a ball, a stick, or even a pair of shoes. They have a gentle mouth and can carry delicate objects without damaging them. One of their quirks is their love for “carrying” things around the house, often presenting you with a random item as a gift. Golden Retrievers are also excellent swimmers and will happily join you for a swim.

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4. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are known for their intelligence and energy. These dogs are always on the go and love to be involved in any activity. Aussies are natural herders and will often try to herd other animals, children, and even adults. One of their quirks is their “wigglebutt”—when they get excited, their entire back end wags along with their tail. They also have a habit of “talking” to their owners, using a variety of vocalizations to express their excitement. Australian Shepherds are incredibly playful and love to engage in games that challenge their minds and bodies.

3. Springer Spaniel

Springer Spaniels are enthusiastic and friendly dogs that love to be around people. Their tails are always wagging, especially when they’re with their favorite humans. These dogs are known for their boundless energy and love of play. One of their quirks is their “springing” behavior—they have a tendency to jump up and down when they get excited, which only adds to their joyful demeanor. Springer Spaniels are also excellent swimmers and love to fetch objects from the water, their tails wagging furiously the entire time.

2. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs with big personalities and even bigger tail wags. These dogs are full of energy and love to play. Their tails wag with such enthusiasm that it seems like their whole body is in motion. One of their quirks is their love for digging—Jack Russells have a strong instinct to burrow and will often dig up your yard in search of hidden treasures. They are also incredibly intelligent and enjoy games that challenge their minds. Despite their small size, Jack Russells have a lot of heart and are always ready for an adventure.

1. Irish Setter

Irish Setters take the top spot when it comes to enthusiastic tail wagging. These dogs are known for their stunning red coats and boundless energy. Their tails are in constant motion, wagging furiously at the prospect of a new game or a fun outing. One of their quirks is their love for playing tag—whether it’s with humans, other dogs, or even the occasional squirrel. They also have a tendency to “talk” to their owners, using a variety of vocalizations to express their excitement. If you’re looking for a dog that will keep you entertained with their antics and always greet you with a wagging tail, the Irish Setter is a perfect choice.

Irish Setter

In conclusion, these breeds bring joy and excitement into our lives with their enthusiastic tail wags and unique quirks. Whether it’s the Beagle’s singing, the Boxer’s kidney bean dance, or the Irish Setter’s playful nature, each of these dogs has a special way of showing their happiness and spreading it to those around them. So, if you’re looking for a furry friend who will always greet you with a wagging tail and a joyful spirit, consider one of these enthusiastic breeds—you won’t be disappointed!