Why do dogs pursue their own tails? A common natural behaviour among many predator species is chasing their tail, often known as spinning. Boredness, enthusiasm, flea management, letting off steam (particularly in pups), or something more serious like an injury are examples of this.
Some scientists think that when young predators have some leisure time, they just play around and chase their tails. Predators have more time for play because, in contrast to prey species, they are not always concerned about being eaten by other creatures.
A puppy’s tendency to pursue its tail is evident to anyone who has ever played with one. In their youthful, playful years, this is quite typical. Certain puppies present an act as though they are unaware of the connection between their tails and bodies. Following that wagging end back there may look like a great way to keep a bored puppy entertained, which is something that happens to young puppies usually!
It’s entertaining to watch a dog chase its tail. When your puppy chases its tail, it may do so more frequently when it wants more attention from you if you laugh and give it attention.
Dogs who are older tend not to chase their tails as much as puppies do, either because they have realised that their tails will always follow them or because they are simply not playing as much. Older dogs that chase their tails may be indicating that a visit to the vet is warranted. For instance, if an elderly dog has worms or fleas or ticks, he may chase after his tail.
As a result of an infestation, their tail may become extremely itchy, prompting them to chase it in an attempt to bite it and relieve the irritation. If you suspect fleas and ticks are to blame, examine their skin for signs of infestation. You may see minute, dark brown to black flecks in their coat (flea faeces), as well as bald patches caused by excessive licking or scratching.
In senior dogs, tail-chasing may potentially indicate a behavioural issue. Dogs are susceptible to obsessive disorders, much as people. Dogs with these conditions may occasionally lick or gnaw on themselves. In other situations, they may make them chase their tails aimlessly.
Older dogs may occasionally chase their tails for no apparent reason other than that they have spent too much time indoors. In addition, some breeds—like German shepherds and terriers—tend to chase their tails more than others.
It is advisable to take an elderly dog for a checkup at the vet if you notice that it is chasing its tail a lot. A medical condition that can be treated with medication may be identified by the veterinarian. If your pet starts tail-chasing and it becomes a problem, a veterinarian could also be able to offer you some advice.
Content for this question contributed by Vijayanti Aiyappan, resident of Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, USA
