Why Do Dogs Chew Their Tails?

Skin Conditions

• Pull out a flea comb and check your dog for black specks, or flea droppings, if you see her chewing her tail, particularly at the base. Flea bites can trigger allergic reactions in dogs, such as making their skin itch, and fleas are commonly found near the base of a dog's tail. Consult your veterinarian for the most effective method of flea treatment for your dog. Your vet can recommend a flea product that will work best for her. You should also thoroughly vacuum your house, especially your dog's bed, to remove fleas and flea eggs. A painful skin infection or wound could also be the cause of your dog's chewing. Check the area carefully and call your vet for an appointment if you see any signs of redness or injury.

Neuromas

• Dogs with docked tails, such as Doberman Pinschers, often chew their tails due to the presence of neuromas. These masses, consisting of nerve fibers and scar tissue, develop at the base of the stub and cause a great deal of pain. Dogs with neuromas will chew or lick this area in an attempt to relieve the discomfort. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have the neuroma surgically removed.

Compulsive Behavior

• Some dogs repeatedly chase and chew their tails, which can lead to serious injury or hair loss. Breeds such as German Shepherds are more prone to develop this type of compulsive behavior. Some dogs exhibit this behavior as puppies and do not outgrow it as they get older. Other dogs start chasing and chewing their tails due to stress or anxiety. An injury to the tail can also trigger this behavior, even long after the injury has healed. Older dogs can suffer from cognitive dysfunction, resulting in the sudden onset of a compulsive behavior such as tail chewing.

Treatment

• Find the object or identify the situation that makes your dog anxious and causes him to start chewing, so you can remove or avoid it if possible. If not, distract him with a toy when he begins to chase or chew. Keep your dog's mind and body active in order to alleviate stress by giving him plenty of exercise, letting him socialize at the dog park, playing with him or giving him challenging puzzle toys filled with treats. Help him associate the upsetting object or situation with something positive, such as his favorite treat or toy, by presenting it while exposing him to the stress trigger. If your dog continues to chew his tail, your vet might need to prescribe medication to help with his compulsive behavior.

Warning

• Punishing your dog for compulsively biting or chewing her tail will heighten her anxiety, which will lead to an increase in this behavior. Petting or speaking affectionately to your dog while she is chewing her tail will positively reinforce this behavior, also resulting in an increase.