[Colonel_Flagg]

I'm not an expert, but I don't approach any animal I don't know in that manner. I try to get on their level first and then offer the back of my hand slowly. Never a 'grab' toward them. I patted a very nice, large dog (named Tinker Bell, LOL) at the vet's office this morning -- no problems.

Then it's good to hear you do not live up to your screen name. :) Contrary to popular belief, just because a dog's tail is wagging doesn't necessarily mean he's happy. It's not a true indicator of a dog's mood.

[JustaDumbBlonde]

Oh, man is that true. I used to be owned by a large mixed-breed that would wag his tail and actually smile the entire time he was plotting how to kill something. He was a sweetheart if you belonged here, though.

[the OlLine Rebel]

Actually, depends on HOW the tail wags. Some is cheerful and receptive, other is wary and anxious or uncertain.