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Is it normal for my dog's tail to stiffen when I scratch his back?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 70 lbs

My dog is a rescue mastiff cross. Whwen he walks he has characteristic "Queen Anne" rear legs. When he comes to greet me in the morning he offers me his rear end and I heavily massage his back in front of his tail. He seems to benefit from this. His tail becomes rigid and I thought at first that it was some sort of sexual behaviour. I have not seen this mentioned as normal behaviour.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 25th, 2020

This is normal. Sometimes it's hard for dogs to reach that back area, so when it's scratched, they get a lot of pleasure from it. Cats can behave the same way when you scratch that area as well. It's not sexual. I hope this helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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