Why is My Dog Chasing Their Tail?

Dogs have many antics that make you giggle and smile. They chase a ball for hours, bark at squirrels, and endlessly chase their tails.

What is so interesting to dogs about their tails? Is it a normal behavior, anxiety, or something completely unrelated?

Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?

A dog chasing their tail can be normal. Puppies tend to chase their tails more often to learn about their bodies. Generally puppies are more prone to playing and turn almost anything into a chew toy, which can include their tails.

Dogs sometimes chase their tails because of boredom or lack of exercise as well. Dogs require a lot of stimulation and exercise to keep themselves in peak condition.

If you feel like this is the reason behind your dog’s sudden interest in their tail, make sure they’re getting all the activity and attention they need. Take them on longer walks a couple days a week, and take them outside with their favorite chew toy a few times. With some extra playtime, their tail-chasing antics should go away.

When to Contact the Veterinarian

If your dog chases their tail for minutes on end, occurs frequently, can’t be stopped with redirection, leads to injury, or notice other different behaviors, contact your vet immediately. Sometimes tail chasing can be caused by medical issues such as allergies, fleas, or trauma to the tail or spine. Your vet will also let you know if your pet is stressed or anxious.

Canine Compulsive Disorder and Treatment Plans

Compulsive tail biting can also be caused by Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD). Such as OCD in humans, CCD in dogs can lead to compulsive fur-licking, fabric-sucking, or tail-chasing. Other symptoms include high anxiety and hypervigilance.

Your vet can help determine if behavior modification techniques will help to treat your pets compulsion.

Tail-chasing can just be a reflection of your dog’s personality. But keep an eye out for potential problems that can make potentially become more serious.