Dogs Who Chase Their Tails 

We may find it funny when a dog runs in tight circles in the endless pursuit of its tail. We laugh about it as the dog twirls around, but come to find out, it may not be a laughing matter. We wanted to share some reasons why dogs chase their tails. Continue reading to learn more!

Dogs that are left alone for extended periods may get bored. When this happens, dogs get creative in choosing what to do with their time! They may chase their tails, providing physical exertion with a side of entertainment. There is a simple solution to tail chasing for dogs who are not getting enough daily physical activity. Owners can engage their dogs in more aerobic exercise by tossing a ball or taking a walk.

Could tail-chasing have something to do with age? Dogs at both ends of the life cycle commonly chew their tails. Puppies consider the tail a toy rather than a part of their body. Older dogs chew their tails due to decreased awareness. In this case, chewing indicates a cognitive disorder that may require behavior modification medications. Another thing to consider is that tail-chasing may be an attention-seeking behavior! Most people are abused when dogs do this. If your dog receives positive reinforcement when the chase ensues, they will do it whenever they want attention. Trust us, dogs are intelligent, and they will show you!

Lastly, a medical issue with your dog could inspire them to chase their tail. You should schedule a veterinary visit if your dog suddenly starts chasing or biting its tail. For example, tail-chasing can also occur when the dog itches around the rear end due to fleas or food allergies. Furthermore, dogs may chase their tails when infested with intestinal parasites. You may laugh if you see a dog chasing its tail, but don’t ignore any potential problems!