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Why do dogs like to chase their tails?

Pet Knowledge
This article is provided by Veterinarian Dr. Ethan Carter
Dogs who like to chase their tail may be caused by boredom, skin disease or parasite infection, blocked anal glands, attracting the owner's attention, psychological problems, etc. If the dog only likes to chase its tail occasionally and there are no other abnormalities, it is generally not a big problem and the owner does not need to worry too much. However, if the dog chases its tail frequently and constantly licks and bites its own tail, it needs to be taken seriously. It is recommended that you take the dog to the pet hospital for examination to see what is causing it, and then take appropriate measures. Sexual treatments.

1. Boredom

If a dog likes to chase its tail in circles and then let go after reaching it, it usually feels bored, so it will entertain itself and chase it. tail play. This situation usually does not last long, and the owner does not need to worry too much. You can prepare some toys for the dog, so that the dog will not chase its own tail to relieve boredom when it feels bored.

2. Infection with skin diseases or parasites

If you find that your dog is chasing its tail while continuing to bite its own tail, it may also be infected with a skin disease. or parasites. Because skin diseases or parasite infections can make dogs feel itchy and painful, dogs will lick or bite them to relieve the discomfort. At this time, the owner can open the dog's hair and check to see if there are any symptoms such as skin redness, swelling, hair loss, increased dandruff, etc. If so, they should consult a pet doctor in time for medication.

3. Anal gland blockage

If the owner does not clean the dog’s anal glands for a long time, the dog’s anal glands will be blocked, causing pain and itching, and the dog will Chasing the tail and licking or scratching, hoping to relieve pain in this way, the dog will also rub its butt on the ground. Therefore, owners must clean their dogs' anal glands regularly. It is generally recommended to squeeze and clean the dog's anal glands every month when bathing them. If the dog already has anal adenitis, it also needs to be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs.

4. Attract the owner’s attention

Some dogs are very smart. If the owner shows affection and praise to the dog’s tail-chasing behavior, the dog will think that the owner likes it. It does so. Over time, a habit will be formed to attract the owner's attention and please the owner in this way.

5. Psychological problems

InIn some extreme cases, dogs may chase their tails to relieve stress due to psychological reasons such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or anxiety. Generally speaking, it is caused by a lack of exercise or a lack of interaction between the owner and the dog. Therefore, the owner must take the dog out for walks more often and interact with the dog more. If the situation is serious, you need to go to the doctor in time and cooperate with medication to correct it.

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