Why Does a Dog Run Around in Circles and Bite Its Tail?

When dogs chase their tails, it may be more than just play.

When puppies run around in circles after their own tails, it's usually because they've just discovered this new plaything. However, for some dogs this behavior can be a symptom of a medical or behavioral problem, especially if they chase their tails excessively.

Identification

This behavior, called "tail chasing," involves the dog running in circles as if trying to catch its own tail. If it does catch its tail, it may bite it. German Shepherds seem to develop the problem somewhat more often than other breeds.

Causes

Dogs may chase their tails because their owners have rewarded them, even unintentionally, by giving them attention when they do it. For some dogs, even negative attention serves as a reward. Dogs suffering from anxiety or not getting enough exercise might also chase their tails. Medical causes include neurological conditions and pain or irritation in the tail. Recent studies show that high cholesterol may be another factor in behavioral problems.

Solutions

Before fixing the tail-chasing dog's problem, the cause needs to be determined as learned or medical. If the dog learned the behavior by getting attention, simply ignore any tail-chasing. Make sure that everyone else in the family also ignores the behavior. Veterinarians and behavioral consultants can help treat tail chasing caused by neurological or other medical causes.

References

• MyDogSpace: Hidden Health Dangers of Dog Tail Chasing.
• University of Saskatchewan: Tail Chasing in Dogs.
• MedicineNet: Compulsive Behavior in Dogs.
• DiscoveryNews: Dog Tail-Chasing Linked to High Cholesterol.

Resources

• The Daily Puppy: Why Do Dogs Chew Their Tails?
• PetPlace: Compulsive Behavior in Dogs