Something weird just happened… I really don't know what to do about my dog, Max. For the past couple of days, he's been obsessed with biting his own tail, to the point where it's all red and raw. I put an e-collar on him hoping it would stop, but he somehow manages to wiggle around enough to reach it anyway! I feel so helpless watching him, especially since it's like he can’t stop himself. It's mostly in the evenings when this gets worse, and I’m at my wit’s end trying everything from distractions to treats to keep him off his poor tail. Has anyone gone through this? What else can I try? I’m so worried something’s wrong.
Thanks for reaching out. I completely understand why you're worried — seeing your dog eating his tail can be really distressing. Dogs might do this for several reasons, and it’s important to get to the root of the problem.
Firstly, this behavior could be driven by an underlying itch, pain, or irritation on the tail. Common causes include allergies, flea infestations, or even a skin infection. Stress, anxiety, or boredom could also lead to tail chewing, as it sometimes becomes a compulsive behavior for dogs looking to self-soothe.
For at-home care, start by examining your dog's tail for signs of redness, swelling, or any wounds. Ensure he's protected against fleas and keep your home environment as low-stress as possible by maintaining routine and engaging him in play or exercise to distract from the behavior.
Meanwhile, keep an eye out for signs that suggest a more serious issue, such as persistent biting, bleeding, significant tail damage, or if your dog seems to be in pain. These would warrant immediate attention.
I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet, where we can dive deeper into your dog's behavior and discuss tailored solutions. We’re here to help ensure your pup gets the comfort and care he needs.
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