A Dog Chasing Its Tail Might Be Dealing With Anxiety (Here's How To Know And Help)

When you see your hyper dog chase their tail, it's nothing short of adorable. However, this could also mean that your pup may be dealing with another issue — anxiety. When they start to quickly spin round and round with their tail just out of their reach, keep an eye on the frequency of the behavior along with other telltale signs that may clue you in to if this is just for fun, or something else. These may include panting, pacing, or whining in addition to the tail-chasing.

Dogs can show many signs of mental illnesses, like obsessive-compulsive behaviors such as tail-chasing and tail-chewing. Outside of having fun, a dog scratching and chasing their tail may be injured or in pain. Additionally, boredom or anxiety from under-stimulation may trigger this behavior. This causes dogs to chase their tails as a form of self-soothing and coping with anxiety. As a result, the behavior can become an unhealthy compulsion.  

If you suspect your dog's tail-chasing may be more than just a fun pastime, it is imperative to track your dog's behavior and report it to a veterinarian. They can perform a physical exam as well to rule out other causes for the behavior. They can also refer you to a veterinary behaviorist as needed to treat any underlying behavioral issues.

If your pup is experiencing tail-chasing anxiety, talking to a veterinary behaviorist is a great option to provide you with the tools to utilize at home. They can help you with a variety of treatment options, including adding healthy distractions or replacing negative behaviors with positive ones. A game of fetch using some of the best fetch toys for dogs as a distraction can help get your pet excited enough to burn any anxious energy while keeping them focused on the toy. Other options, such as snuffle mats like Neecong's Pet Snuffle Mat, can keep your dog busy in a healthy way by foraging for their food and treats.

Additionally, there are medications that help treat anxiety and may reduce the amount of tail-chasing. Medications can help because they alter serotonin levels to help relieve anxiety. Your veterinarian can determine if using a medication can help in addition to a training plan. With the right combination of medication and behavior training, your pup can be on the road to recovery to escape from that forever-loop of tail hunting.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.