Dog Chasing Tail? When to Worry & What to Do

Ever catch your dog spinning in circles, hot on the trail of their own tail? We've all seen it – that classic dog chasing tail maneuver. But why do they do it? Is it just playful silliness, or could it signal something more? This article explores the many reasons behind this common canine quirk, from simple boredom to potential medical concerns. We'll help you understand whether your dog's tail chasing is harmless fun or a sign you should seek professional advice.

But what does it mean, exactly, when your dog chases their tail? Is it a cute quirk worthy of a little laugh? Or is it a behavioral problem in the making?

We’ve put together a guide with everything you need to know about this silly antic. Here’s what might cause your dog to chase their tail—and how you can help your pup stop if their behavior is getting a little too intense.

Is it an issue if your dog chases their tail?

Like most things in the dog training and pet ownership world, the answer here is that it depends.

Some dogs chase their tails on occasion without any ill effects. Other times, though, tail chasing indicates a larger problem. This is especially true if tail chasing becomes a compulsive behavior that’s frequent and intense.

Key Takeaways

• Tail chasing can be more than just a quirky habit: While common in puppies exploring their bodies, frequent tail chasing in adult dogs could point to boredom, stress, medical issues, or compulsive tendencies. If you're concerned, it's always best to consult your vet.
• A fulfilling life can curb tail chasing: Dogs often chase their tails due to a lack of physical or mental stimulation. Provide plenty of exercise, enrichment activities, and positive interaction to keep your dog happy and engaged. Sniffspot offers safe and stimulating environments for dogs to explore and play.
• Don't hesitate to seek professional help: If your dog's tail chasing is excessive or causing you concern, a certified professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can provide personalized guidance and develop a tailored training plan.

Tail chasing can indicate an underlying issue or medical condition

A physically and mentally healthy dog usually won’t spend much time chasing their tail. (More in the next section about common reasons your pup might be running in circles, including boredom and stress.)

When dogs chase their tails, they can sometimes cause injury

Tail chasing is definitely a problem if your dog is actually hurting themselves. While it might sound silly at first, this really can happen! Some dogs chase their tails so violently that they make contact and bite their own skin.

If this is the case with your four-legged friend, you want to step in to address the tail chewing behavior as soon as possible to mitigate long-term harm.

Why do dogs chase their tails?

There are many reasons a dog might chase their tail. Some are harmless and temporary—others are more concerning.

The most common causes of tail chasing in domestic dogs include:

Puppy Tail Chasing: Is It Normal?Puppies might chase their tail when first learning about their bodies

This is the most normal, and usually the most benign, type of tail chasing. Some young puppies chew on their own tails as they start to explore the world around them. Amusingly, they might not actually realize right away that their tail is connected to their body!

Young dogs tend to figure this out pretty quickly. Puppy tail chasing should go away on its own without owner intervention. (Chasing the tails of their littermates or other pets in the home might be a different story, though. Puppies sure keep us on our toes.)

Is Boredom Causing Your Dog to Chase Their Tail?Dogs might chase their tails when bored

Boredom is one of the most common negative motivations for tail chasing in adult dogs.

Insufficient physical activity and mental stimulation can result in a slew of behavioral problems in our pets. Chasing or chewing on their own body parts is a way to release pent-up energy that doesn’t require external input (like toys or environmental distractions).

Enrichment and Mental Stimulation: How to Help a Bored Dog

Insufficient physical activity and mental stimulation can lead to a range of behavioral problems, including tail chasing. Dogs may resort to chasing or chewing on their own body parts as a way to release pent-up energy without external input, such as toys or environmental distractions. A bored dog might also chew on furniture or other items around the house.

To combat boredom and promote a healthier lifestyle, increase your dog's exercise and provide engaging mental activities. This can include puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games that challenge their minds and keep them occupied. A stimulating visit to a safe, private dog park through Sniffspot, where your dog can explore new scents and terrain, can also do wonders. A holistic approach that combines physical exercise with mental stimulation can significantly reduce the likelihood of compulsive behaviors like tail chasing. For more ideas, check out our guide on the best mental exercises for dogs.

Attention-Seeking: Does Your Dog Want Your Attention?Tail chasing could be a way for dogs to get attention from their pet parents

Similar to boredom chasing, dogs might also chase their tails as an intentional way to get attention.

Your pup might have attacked their own rump once or twice within your view—and they might have noticed that you got up from what you were doing to laugh at their bizarre dog behavior, tell them to stop, or simply see if everything was okay. By pattern mapping that tail chasing results in the positive reinforcement of your focus, your dog might now start to chase their tail to initiate play or solicit affection!

Remember that for some dogs, even negative attention (like scolding) is desirable when they’re feeling starved for interaction. This does not mean it’s okay to yell at your dog. It does mean that we need to be aware of what messages we’re sending to our pets.

If your dog is performing a behavior in the hopes of getting your focus, you need to:

1. Consider if you’ve been fulfilling their needs with enough alternate activities like physical stimulation and mental enrichment lately, and
2. Be thoughtful about how you respond so that you don’t accidentally reinforce undesirable, compulsive behaviors.

Understanding the Impact of Negative Attention

When it comes to tail chasing, it’s essential to recognize that dogs may engage in this behavior to seek attention from their owners. This can happen even if the attention is negative. According to the American Kennel Club, “attention-seeking dogs will continue tail-chasing if it gets them any reaction (positive or negative) from their owners.” This means that even scolding your dog can inadvertently reinforce the behavior, as they may interpret any attention as a reward.

It’s important to understand that for some dogs, negative attention can be just as desirable as positive interaction. Even scolding can be desirable when a dog feels starved for interaction. This highlights the need for pet owners to be mindful of their responses to tail chasing. Instead of reacting in a way that could reinforce the behavior, it may be more effective to ignore it, allowing the dog to learn that tail chasing does not yield the desired attention. If boredom is a factor, consider scheduling more visits to a Sniffspot for exercise and a change of scenery!

If your dog engages in tail chasing to get your focus, it’s crucial to evaluate whether you are meeting their needs for physical activity and mental stimulation. By providing adequate enrichment and being thoughtful about your reactions, you can help prevent tail chasing from becoming a compulsive behavior.

Could Parasites Be the Reason for Tail Chasing?Tail chasing might indicate an acute medical problem like parasites

Some pests (like fleas and ticks on their skin or intestinal parasites in their digestive tracts) along with allergies (to the environment or to foods) can make your pet itchy. They might look like they’re trying to catch their tail when really they’re trying their hardest to grab it in their mouth. Chewing is one of the best ways a canine has of scratching an itch!

If your dog shows these signs of discomfort, it could also be possible that their anal glands are inflamed or irritated. Chewing can be an attempt to express them.

If you routinely catch your dog chewing on their tail, hind end, or any other part of their body, it’s a good idea to get in touch with your veterinarian to address any medical issues at play. A full checkup never hurts—especially when you’re not sure what to make of a new behavior.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Dogs: What to Look ForSome dogs chase their tails due to obsessive compulsive tendencies

Dogs might also get hooked on tail chasing or other repetitive behaviors because they’re stressed, suffering from compulsive disorders, or dealing with an undiagnosed neurological condition.

You might have heard of this risk with laser pointers before. Most trainers do not recommend playing with lights, because it runs the risk of making your dog hyper aware of reflections around them. A similar thing can happen with tail chasing.

These dogs need support from qualified trainers or veterinary behaviorists to feel more comfortable in the world around them. Remember that it’s important to keep your dog in good mental shape along with prioritizing their physical health!

Medical Reasons for Tail Chasing

Pain and Discomfort

Sometimes, tail chasing stems from an underlying medical issue. If your dog is experiencing pain or discomfort, they might chase their tail as a way to cope. This can be especially true if the pain is located in their hindquarters, tail, or lower back. For example, arthritis, injuries, or skin irritations can trigger this behavior. If your dog's tail chasing seems excessive or accompanied by other signs of discomfort, like whining, limping, or changes in appetite, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian. They can help determine if a medical condition is contributing to the behavior and recommend appropriate treatment.

Neurological Problems

In some cases, tail chasing can be a sign of a neurological problem. Conditions affecting the nervous system can sometimes manifest as repetitive behaviors like tail chasing. These could include seizures, vestibular disease (which affects balance), or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), a form of dementia in dogs. If your dog's tail chasing is sudden, seems involuntary, or is accompanied by other neurological symptoms like disorientation, head tilting, or tremors, seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions are essential for managing the symptoms and improving your dog's quality of life.

Impacted Anal Glands

Believe it or not, impacted or infected anal glands can also lead to tail chasing. These small glands, located near a dog's anus, release a scent used for communication. If the glands become blocked or infected, they can cause significant discomfort and itching. Your dog might chase their tail or scoot their bottom along the ground in an attempt to relieve the pressure and itching. If you notice your dog excessively licking or chewing at their rear end, along with a foul odor, it's a good idea to have their anal glands checked by a vet. Regular expression of the anal glands can often prevent this issue.

Cognitive Decline in Senior Dogs

As dogs age, they can experience cognitive decline, similar to dementia in humans. This can lead to changes in behavior, including increased anxiety, confusion, and repetitive behaviors like tail chasing. If your senior dog suddenly starts chasing their tail more frequently, or if the behavior seems out of character, it's worth discussing with your veterinarian. They can assess your dog's cognitive function and recommend strategies to manage the symptoms and support their overall well-being. For more information on this quirky canine behavior, read more about why dogs chase their tails.

Genetics might play a role in compulsive tail chasing behavior

Your dog’s breed might also play a role in whether or not they chase their tail. The same way some lines of dogs are predisposed to stronger instincts—terriers chasing small critters or herding breeds stalking livestock, for example—genetics can also influence their other habits.

The National Center for Biotechnology Information published an article suggesting that German Shepherds, Bull Terriers, and Anatolian Sheepdogs might be most likely to chase their tails compared to other dog breeds. Jack Russell Terriers are on the list, too. (Whether there is substantive reputable data to confirm these claims is up for debate. Remember that every dog is an individual!)

If your dog chases their tail on occasion, and it doesn’t negatively impact either of your lives, there’s a chance it’s just a quick you don’t need to worry about.

Breed Predisposition

Your dog’s breed might play a role in whether they chase their tail. Just as some dog breeds have stronger instincts for certain activities—like terriers chasing small animals or herding breeds herding livestock—genetics can influence other habits, too. This could mean a higher chance of certain behaviors, including tail chasing.

For example, research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information suggests that German Shepherds, Bull Terriers, and Anatolian Sheepdogs might be more likely to chase their tails than other breeds. Jack Russell Terriers are also on this list. Keep in mind that every dog is an individual, and breed doesn't fully determine behavior.

Gender and Tail Chasing

There isn’t clear research showing a strong link between a dog's gender and tail chasing. Individual dogs behave differently, and both male and female dogs can chase their tails. While some behaviors are affected by hormones, tail chasing seems to depend more on other things like breed, age, environment, and overall health.

Genetic Factors: The CDH2 Gene

Research is still underway, but some studies suggest a possible link between the CDH2 gene and compulsive behaviors in dogs, which can include tail chasing. This gene affects brain development and how neurotransmitters work. Variations in the CDH2 gene could influence a dog's likelihood of developing compulsive disorders. However, having this gene variation doesn’t mean a dog will definitely chase their tail compulsively. Environment and individual experiences also matter.

How can you prevent your dog from chasing their tail?

If you think your dog’s tail chasing is a problem—the compulsive behaviour disrupting their daily activities, causing injury, or making you worried that something deeper is wrong—here’s what you can do.

Ask your veterinarian for advice

Taking your dog in for a vet checkup is always a good idea when you notice a new repetitive behaviour you’re concerned about. Canine professionals can help you rule out tangible causes like parasites or allergies!

Specific Medications for Compulsive Tail Chasing

If your vet suspects your dog's tail chasing stems from anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or another underlying condition, they might suggest medication as part of a treatment plan. This often goes hand-in-hand with behavior modification techniques to address the root cause of the behavior. Medications like Fluoxetine (an SSRI) are sometimes prescribed to help manage compulsive behaviors. Other medications, like Hypericin, have also shown promise in some studies. It's crucial to remember that medication should always be administered under the guidance of a veterinarian, who can determine the appropriate dosage and monitor your dog for any potential side effects.

As always, a combined approach is usually best. Working with veterinary professionals and certified applied animal behaviorists can offer valuable insights and create a tailored plan to help your dog manage their tail chasing. This might include strategies to reduce stress and anxiety, environmental enrichment ideas to keep your dog occupied, and training techniques to redirect their focus and energy.

Address the root cause

If your dog is physically healthy but still chasing their tail excessively, consider if they get enough enrichment. Could they be bored or looking for your attention? If so, make an effort to engage in more fulfilling activities with them. Our Comprehensive Guide to Enrichment Activities compiles everything you need to know!

Thankfully, tail chasing is often a simple behavior that’s resolved once you address its underlying cause.

Stress as a Trigger: How it Affects Your Dog's Behavior

Stress can trigger tail chasing. Uncomfortable situations, like meeting new people or anticipating stressful events (a vet visit, for example), can lead to this behavior. Think of it as a coping mechanism—your dog isn't trying to be weird; they're managing anxiety. This is especially true for dogs with compulsive disorders or undiagnosed neurological conditions. Some dogs might get hooked on tail chasing or other repetitive behaviors because they’re stressed. Just like humans, dogs have a variety of stress responses, and tail chasing can be one of them. Stress can be a trigger for tail chasing.

If you suspect stress is the root cause, create a calming environment for your dog. This could involve providing a safe space, using calming aids like pheromone diffusers, or incorporating relaxation techniques. It’s important to keep your dog in good mental shape, along with prioritizing their physical health. A calm, predictable environment can help reduce compulsive behaviors like tail chasing.

When in doubt, get in touch with a trainer you trust

If you’re worried about your dog’s mental health or struggling to work on their tail chasing on your own, reach out to a force free trainer. They’re here to help!

A qualified coach will be able to develop an individualized treatment plan to get you and your pup back on the right track.

Behavioral Therapy Techniques

Some dogs chase their tails due to underlying anxiety, stress, or compulsive disorders. In these cases, simply ignoring the behavior or trying to distract your dog might not be enough. These dogs often benefit from professional support. A qualified trainer or veterinary behaviorist can assess your dog's behavior and develop a tailored plan. This might involve desensitization techniques, counter-conditioning, or medication, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the tail chasing. It's important to seek professional guidance if you suspect your dog's tail chasing stems from a deeper emotional or neurological issue.

Ignoring the Behavior: Why It Might Not Work

If your dog's tail chasing is rooted in attention-seeking, ignoring it can sometimes be effective. However, it's crucial to ensure you're not inadvertently reinforcing the behavior. If you’ve previously reacted to the tail chasing—even negatively—your dog may have learned that it gets a reaction from you. Consider how your responses might be contributing to the problem. In such cases, ignoring the behavior might not work, and you might need to actively redirect your dog's attention to more appropriate activities, like a favorite chew toy or a training game.

Tail Docking is Not a Solution

It's important to understand that tail docking is never a solution for compulsive tail chasing. This practice is considered inhumane and can lead to other behavioral problems. The underlying cause of the tail chasing needs to be addressed, not the tail itself. If you're concerned about your dog injuring their tail, consult with a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer for guidance on appropriate management strategies.

Finding the Right Resources for Your Dog

If your dog's tail chasing is becoming a concern, there are several resources available to help you address the issue effectively. Start by consulting with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Connecting with Qualified Professionals

If you're struggling to manage your dog's tail chasing on your own, consider reaching out to a certified professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. They can help you identify the underlying cause of the behavior and develop a personalized training plan. A force-free trainer, for example, will focus on positive reinforcement methods to help your dog learn alternative behaviors.

Discovering Dog-Friendly Spaces with Sniffspot

Providing your dog with opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation is crucial for preventing boredom and reducing stress, both of which can contribute to tail chasing. Sniffspot offers a fantastic way to find safe, private dog parks and spaces where your dog can run, play, and explore without the distractions and potential stressors of public dog parks. This can be a valuable tool in your efforts to address your dog's tail chasing behavior. A safe space to explore might be just what your dog needs.

A Safe Place to Explore and Play

Having access to a secure and stimulating environment can make a big difference in a dog's overall well-being. Sniffspot provides a variety of dog-friendly locations, including fenced-in yards, fields, and even indoor spaces, catering to different needs and preferences. This can be especially helpful for dogs who are reactive or anxious in public dog parks, allowing them to enjoy off-leash time in a more controlled setting.

Reducing Boredom and Promoting Exercise

A tired dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog is less likely to engage in compulsive behaviors like tail chasing. Regular exercise and enrichment activities are essential for keeping your dog physically and mentally stimulated. Addressing the root cause, like boredom, can significantly reduce or eliminate tail chasing. Sniffspot can be a great resource for finding new and exciting places to walk, hike, or simply let your dog run and play, helping them burn off excess energy and reduce boredom-related tail chasing.

Trainer Review of this Article

There is so much misinformation out there, and we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. The science of animal behavior is complex. The more seriously we take it—as pet professionals and everyday dog owners—the better! We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, force-free trainers. 

This is the trainer that reviewed this article:

Kelly Hayden, CBCC-KA
Owner & Lead Trainer – Ardent Dog
Certified Separation Anxiety Professional Trainer

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is tail chasing always a bad thing?

Not necessarily. Occasional tail chasing can be normal, especially in puppies exploring their bodies. It becomes a concern if it's excessive, causing injury, or seems driven by anxiety or compulsion. If you're unsure, it's always best to consult with your vet.

My dog chases their tail when they're alone. Why?

Boredom and pent-up energy are common culprits. When left alone, your dog might chase their tail as a way to release energy or simply entertain themselves. Increasing physical activity and mental stimulation before leaving them alone can help. Puzzle toys and other enrichment activities can also keep them occupied.

My dog seems to chase their tail for attention. What should I do?

Be mindful of how you react. Even negative attention can reinforce the behavior. Try ignoring the tail chasing and instead, redirect your dog's attention to a more desirable activity, like a chew toy or a training game. Make sure they're getting enough exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day.

What medical conditions can cause tail chasing?

Several medical issues can trigger tail chasing, including parasites, allergies, impacted anal glands, pain in the hindquarters or tail, and even neurological problems. If you suspect a medical reason, it's important to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

How can a professional trainer help with tail chasing?

A qualified trainer can assess your dog's behavior and develop a tailored plan to address the underlying cause. They can teach you how to manage the behavior through techniques like desensitization, counter-conditioning, and positive reinforcement training. They can also help you create an enriching environment for your dog to minimize boredom and stress.

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