Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?

Tail-chasing is a common dog behavior with various potential causes, some of which are benign, while others may indicate a deeper issue. Common reasons for tail-chasing include:

• Alleviating discomfort: Dogs may chase or bite their tails if they are experiencing discomfort in their spinal or anal areas due to underlying medical issues. Health problems like intestinal parasites, fleas, clogged anal glands, or an allergic reaction (to dog food, human food, or their environment) are all potential reasons why dogs bite their tail area constantly. Additionally, a dog may chase, bite, or excessively lick their tail when injured.
• Breed habits: Some dog breeds—like German Shepherds, Bull Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, and more—are more likely to chase their tails than others. However, this isn’t a reason to dismiss the behavior if it’s constant, as it can indicate a deeper behavioral or health issue. Learn more about different dog breeds.
• Craving attention: Bored dogs often chase their tails to release pent-up energy, which pet parents may view as cute or entertaining. However, your pooch experiences this reaction as positive reinforcement. As a result, your dog may continue to engage in this attention-seeking behavior, regardless of whether you’re praising them or reprimanding them. Learn how to train a hyper dog.
• Releasing energy: Your dog might chase their tail if they’re simply feeling playful or in the mood to burn off extra energy. However, constant tail-chasing can indicate an adverse reaction, indicative of pent-up anxiety or behavioral problems like separation anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

It’s possible that your pooch is chasing their tail for fun during playtime or to get your attention. However, the behavior can be a sign of deeper health or behavioral issues, which may require medical treatment.

• If it accompanies other symptoms: A dog may excessively chase and play with their tail because of an allergic reaction. Consult a veterinarian if tail-chasing accompanies other behaviors (like yelping, excessive itching, scooting, licking, or biting) or health issues like gastrointestinal distress.
• If it is compulsive: Tail-chasing can become a compulsive behavior, so if you notice constant tail-chasing or other repetitive behaviors, take your dog to a veterinarian. This repetitive action can be a sign of a compulsive disorder like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Additionally, consider reaching out to an animal behaviorist for behavior modification treatment.
• If you have a senior dog: Constant tail-chasing or tail-licking in senior dogs can be a sign of cognitive decline. Visit a doctor if your senior dog is obsessively playing with their tail. The vet may prescribe medication to help alleviate the behavior.

Your dream of having a dog who understands words like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and—crucially— “no” is just a MasterClass Annual Membership away. The only things you’ll need to train up a well-behaved pup are your laptop, a big bag of treats, and our exclusive instructional videos from superstar animal trainer Brandon McMillan.