Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tail?

Dogs are frequently seen chasing their tails. You might even see a dog performing it in a circle over and over.

When dogs chase their tails, they are sometimes just having fun. They're discovering their bodies and what they're capable of. Tail chasing, on the other hand, can be an indication of a compulsive activity.

A compulsive activity occurs for a longer period than usual, is repeated out of context, or occurs in unusual contexts. Compulsive behaviors often worsen over time and necessitate medical or behavioral care.

When tail chasing progresses from a fun activity your dog occasionally engages in a constant habit that is both disturbing for you and harmful to their health, you may be dealing with a compulsive behavior. It is important to consult with your veterinarian in this circumstance.

What Causes Dogs to Chase Their Tails?

Here are some of the most prevalent causes of dogs chasing their tails:

• They're having a good time and being ridiculous. This is especially prevalent in puppies, who are only starting to investigate their surroundings and body.
• They're uninterested. Dogs require a lot of physical activity to keep physically and mentally fit. If they are bored, their tail may appear to be a good toy.
• They are suffering from a medical problem. Compulsive tail-chasing might sometimes indicate that your dog has an underlying medical concern. A veterinarian should evaluate your dog in this instance.

Usually, simply refocusing your dog's attention will help them quit biting their tail. For example, if you notice your dog biting their tail, give them a basic order like "sit" or "stop." If your dog is obsessively following their tail, the compulsion may worsen with time. They will frequently begin biting their tail.

What Causes Dogs to Chew Their Tails?

Dogs chew their tails when they are bored or intrigued about their tail. A dog chewing its tail can also be an indication of something more serious. Here are some of the most common causes of dog tail chewing:

• Pain. To provide relief, dogs will frequently chew on a painful region of their tail.
• An allergic response occurs. Dogs will sometimes chew their tail to relieve itching or discomfort caused by an allergic response.
• Fleas. Fleas are microscopic insects that can cling to dogs and cause discomfort. Tail chewing could indicate that your dog has fleas.
• Parasites of the intestine. If your dog has a worm infestation, he or she may chew on their tail to relieve pain.
• They're worried. If your dog is agitated, he or she may lick or chew on their tail. This is especially prevalent when new guests arrive or when thunderstorms strike.
• Injury to the tailbone or spine. A dog who chews its tail may have an internal injury in its tail or spine, which is not always visible at first.

In some cases, a dog biting their tail may indicate compulsive behavior.

Understanding Dog Obsessive Behavior

When "normal" dog behavior begins to interfere with the dog's quality of life, it becomes compulsive. For example, if your dog is chasing and biting their tail so frequently that it is practically nonstop, this may be cause for concern.

Dogs, like humans, can develop compulsive tendencies that are difficult to manage. An anxious dog may chase and bite their tail in the same way that a person bites their nails. The behavior may worsen and occur more frequently with time.

If your dog chases their tail and cannot be stopped with gentle redirection, or if your dog bites their tail to the point of injuring itself, call your veterinarian right away.