Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?

Dog chasing tail is often a dog obsessive behavior that I am called in to correct.

Certainly, a young puppy's fascination with his tail is like a baby's fascination with his toes. So be aware that a puppy is usually just thinking, "Wow, I have a tail!" Begin to address it, though, if it starts to become a habit.

The dog obsessive behavior forms as a result of boredom, lack of physical and mental activity, and frustration. Not blocking the behavior when it is escalating can lead to this compulsion as well.

However, in some cases it is a symptom of a serious medical problem. Only your vet can determine that.

On the mental front, some of my clients claim that they have walked their dogs and seen no difference in their dogs' behavior. So they have come to accept that "this is the way he is."

The fact is, if you are not having your dog focused on you, then he automatically gets excited about everything around him and stays excited. When you have your dog focus, he works his mind and relaxes.

"No tail chasing, Spot!"

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman