Why Do Dogs Chase Their Own Tails
Dogs are truly man’s best friend as these animals have been the loyal companions of man for untold number of years. Due to the long years of association dogs have developed the ability to understand humans very well. Dogs though have some very weird behaviors that humans find hard to fathom. One of these inexplicable and bizarre behaviors is the dog’s tendency to chase their tails.
Tail chasing, a normal behavior of dogs is most common in puppies. The amusing tail chasing behavior of puppies makes them even more lovable. Normal tail chasing that is shown when the dog is playing should not be a cause for concern. Running and chasing are natural dog behaviors because these animals are hunters. On the other hand, if the tail chasing behavior of the dog becomes excessive it will become a problem especially when the dog is injured because it can no longer be stopped from chasing its tail. A tail chasing dog would elicit laughter from the family but if this perplexing behavior causes the dog serious injuries, the family would certainly not laugh.
Tail chasing or the constant and repetitive whirling movement can be due to behavioral or medical causes. No specific cause was given for the dog’s tail chasing behavior but it is commonly believed that boredom and anxiety triggers this bizarre behavior. Being social creatures, dogs would crave for attention. Dogs that want to have the attention of the family would do anything and that includes chasing their own tail. A dog that whirls around to chase its own tail will surely elicit a quick laugh from its audience. Realizing that it has gained the family’s attention, the dog would continue to chase its own tail.
Boredom and anxiety can make a dog chase its tail. Boredom will set in if the dog is cooped inside the house all day with no toys to play with. When the dog catches a movement in its peripheral vision, the endless chase is on. Nail biting or twirling a lock of hair around a finger are commonly seen in anxious people. The dog’s tail chasing behavior is also attributed to anxiety.
Tail chasing can be due to a medical condition. The dog may be weighed down by discomfort from internal and external parasite infestation or an impacted anal gland. Dogs will chase and bite a flea infested tail. An impacted anal gland and worms in the anal area would make a dog very uncomfortable. A dog will chase its own tail because of these conditions.
Sarah’s Dogs provides more information on why dogs chase their own tails as well as why dogs wag their tails.