[flyingduster]

I'm inclined to think it could be YOU that is sending the nerves and expectation down the lead to her. If her tail was down when outside the ring (with other dogs around, cos they always are around!) then perhaps it could be worried about the dogs etc, but the fact it's when you BOTH go into the ring to be shown, makes me think it's likely something you're doing subconsciously! You went back into the ring later, but you knew you weren't showing, so you weren't worried about if her tail was up or down, so nor was she!