Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet ClinicGlossary
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Desperate- My dog is eating his tail even with an e-collar

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.

Answer:

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.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 30, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
just chilling on the couch with Max and munching on some dried mango. Is it cool if he has a nibble too, or is that not a thing? Not sure if this is dumb, but he's giving me those puppy eyes!
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
just got home from the dog park and found my partner sharing their steak with our golden, Max. he swears it's fine, but now Max is eyeing my dinner too. so, can dogs actually have steak, or should i start hiding the t-bones?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I just got my puppy, Toby, last week. I'm a bit confused—can dogs have steak? I've read conflicting things online. I want to make sure I'm doing the right thing for him! Thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My dog Bella just grabbed a steak off the counter while I was cooking. Should I be freaking out? Is steak dangerous for dogs? Do I need to call a vet, or will she be okay? I'm so worried!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support - anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicAsk A Vet: Q&AGlossary
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links