Is Tail Wagging Voluntary. A dog tail wagging in circles shows the dog is happy or excited. Ultimately, tail wagging in the adult dog tends to be involuntary in response, but it can be consciously controlled if the dog chooses to do so.

This can be a sign of pain, illness, or stress. Link to comment share on other sites Donna, shelter director, has seen countless “waggers” and agrees that a wagging tail is the hallmark of a very playful and active ferret.