Kenapa Anjing Menggigit Ekornya? Penyebab & Solusi

Seeing your dog gnawing on their tail can be alarming. Kenapa anjing menggigit ekornya sendiri (Why does my dog bite their own tail)? While a little tail chasing is normal, excessive biting often signals a problem. This guide explores the reasons behind tail biting in dogs, from medical issues to behavioral triggers. We'll cover how to tell if it's serious, offer tips for treating tail injuries, and discuss how to prevent future biting. Let's get your dog's tail wagging happily again.

Strange as it seems, tail biting is actually a pretty common behavior in pet dogs—but it’s definitely cause for concern. Common doesn’t mean “good.” It just means you’re in good company as you work to address the problem.

Here’s what you need to know about the potential causes of your dog’s chewing and, most importantly, what you can do to help! Read on for:

• The difference between tail biting and tail chasing
• Common causes of tail biting in dogs
• How to treat a tail biting injury
• How to prevent your dog from biting their tail in the first place

Is Your Dog Biting or Chasing Their Tail?Tail biting versus tail chasing

Tail biting and tail chasing often overlap. Many dogs who chase their tails do so because they’re trying to catch it in order to chew on an itch or irritated patch of skin!

The difference is that some occasional tail chasing can be harmless. This is especially true in young puppies who are still learning about their bodies. Excessive tail biting, though, is almost always a problem pet parents need to address.

Normal, harmless tail chasing might look like:

• Your young dog occasionally becoming interested in their own tail
• Your adolescent or adult dog engaging in short bursts of tail chasing during the zoomies

Maladaptive tail biting looks like your dog:

• Engaging in frequent and intense chewing behavior
• Causing physical self harm
• Becoming fixated on their tail even in the presence of other distractions

Key Takeaways

• Tail biting signals a problem: Chewing can indicate medical issues like allergies, parasites, or injuries, or stem from behavioral reasons like boredom or anxiety. A vet visit is the first step to identify the cause.
• A fulfilled dog is less likely to chew: Boredom and pent-up energy can lead to tail biting. Provide plenty of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and enrichment activities to keep your dog happy and occupied.
• Professional guidance can make a difference: If the chewing persists, a certified dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can offer expert support and create a tailored plan to address the root of the problem.

Why Does My Dog Bite Their Tail?Why is your dog biting their tail?

Tail biting has multiple potential causes. Here are some of the most common culprits if you catch your canine chewing on their own hind end.

Medical Reasons Why Dogs Bite Their Tails

Just like us, dogs experience physical discomfort. Sometimes, that discomfort manifests as chewing or biting at their tails. Here are some of the medical reasons your dog might be engaging in this behavior:

Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, Tapeworms)

Fleas, ticks, and internal parasites like tapeworms can make your dog intensely itchy. If the itching is concentrated around their rear end and tail, they might bite at themselves to try and get some relief. A good flea and tick preventative, along with regular deworming as recommended by your vet, can help keep these pests away.

Skin Allergies and Irritations

Environmental and food allergies can also cause itchy skin in dogs. If your dog seems particularly itchy after eating certain foods or spending time outdoors, allergies might be the cause. Switching to a hypoallergenic diet or limiting their exposure to potential allergens can sometimes help. It's always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause of the allergy and the best course of treatment.

Infections (Bacterial, Fungal)

Sometimes, a dog’s excessive licking and chewing can create open sores on their skin, which can then become infected with bacteria or fungi, leading to even more itching and discomfort. If you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge around your dog’s tail, take them to the vet for treatment. Early intervention is key to preventing more serious health complications.

Impacted Anal Glands

Impacted or infected anal glands can also cause a dog to chew at their tail. These glands, located on either side of your dog’s anus, can become blocked or infected, leading to discomfort. If you notice your dog scooting their bottom along the ground or excessively licking their rear end, have their anal glands checked by a vet.

Injury or Pain (Tail, Back, etc.)

An injury to the tail itself, like a broken bone or pulled muscle, can cause pain and lead to chewing. Pain in other areas of the body, such as the back or hips, can also manifest as tail biting. If your dog suddenly starts chewing their tail and you haven’t noticed any obvious external injuries, schedule a check-up with your vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions. A thorough exam can help pinpoint the source of the pain.

Age-Related Cognitive Decline

As dogs get older, they can experience cognitive decline. This can lead to changes in behavior, including increased anxiety and compulsive behaviors like tail chewing. If your senior dog starts exhibiting this behavior, talk to your vet. They can assess your dog’s cognitive function and recommend management strategies to help improve their quality of life.

Dogs might bite their tails if they’re trying to scratch itchy skin

One of the best ways a canine has to scratch an itch? Using their teeth!

Your dog might look like they’re trying to eat their tail—when they’re actually trying their hardest to alleviate physical discomfort. This itchiness can be caused by a few things.

Hot Spots

Repeated scratching and chewing can create open wounds, commonly known as hot spots. These irritated, often infected, sores can become intensely itchy, creating a vicious cycle. Your dog chews to relieve the itch, but the chewing further irritates the skin, making the itch even worse. As Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid Florida points out, tail biting can actually be a symptom of a hot spot, not the original cause. If you see any open sores or raw patches on your dog's tail, a visit to the vet is definitely recommended.

Environmental Irritants (Pollen, Chemicals)

Just like us, dogs can have allergies to things in their environment. Pollen, dust mites, mold, certain cleaning products—even some types of grass—can trigger an allergic reaction that makes their skin crawl. According to Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid Florida, environmental allergies are a common cause of itching and subsequent tail biting, especially in younger dogs (between 3 months and 6 years old). If your dog's tail biting seems seasonal or flares up after walks at a dog park or in certain areas, environmental allergies could be the culprit. A vet can help you pinpoint the allergen and recommend ways to manage it.

Tail biting might be due to a skin allergy

Allergies in dogs cause itching due to an overactive immune response to certain substances.

When a dog comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system reacts as if it were a threat. This allergic reaction triggers the release of chemicals in the body that lead to inflammation. And inflammation often leads to itching! Sometimes secondary infections can occur, too.

Pollen, dust mites, and flea saliva are examples of environmental allergies. Certain types of protein, like chicken, are common food allergies.

Dogs might bite their tails in an attempt to alleviate hot spot discomfort

Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are a specific type of skin irritation that can cause intense itching in dogs. Hot spots are typically localized areas of inflamed, infected, and moist skin.

While allergies can sometimes contribute to the development of hot spots, they can have other underlying causes as well. Too much undercoat, for example, can also contribute to hot spots if your pup’s skin isn’t able to breathe.

Is Poor Grooming Making Your Dog Itch?

Matted hair can make your dog uncomfortable around their tail.

External or internal parasites might make your dog’s hind end itch

Some pests (like flea bites and ticks on their skin or intestinal parasites in their digestive tracts) can make your pet itchy.

Anal glands can cause tail biting issues for some dogs

If your dog tries to bite their own tail, it could also be possible that their anal glands are inflamed or irritated. They might be trying to express them.

Suspect Itchiness? See Your Vet!

If you catch your dog chewing on their tail, hind end, or any other part of their body, it’s a good idea to get in touch with your veterinarian. A full checkup never hurts, especially when you’re not sure what to make of a new behavior you’re noticing!

Your vet team will help you identify and address any medical issues at play.

Boredom might be a cause of tail biting in dogs

Boredom is one of the most common negative motivations for tail biting in adult dogs. Insufficient physical activity and mental stimulation can result in a slew of behavioral problems in our pets!

Destructive behaviors like chewing on household objects are most common—but biting their own body parts is also on the list. It’s a way to release pent-up energy that doesn’t require any external input (like toys or environmental distractions).

Behavioral Reasons Why Dogs Bite Their Tails

Boredom and Lack of Stimulation

If your dog isn’t getting enough physical exercise and mental enrichment, they might start engaging in destructive behaviors like tail biting as a way to release pent-up energy. A bored dog will often find "entertainment" in ways we don’t necessarily like—and sometimes, that entertainment comes at the expense of their own physical wellbeing. This can manifest in behaviors like excessive barking, digging, chewing on furniture, or, as we're discussing here, tail biting.

One of the best ways to prevent boredom-based tail biting is to make sure your dog is getting enough physical activity. A visit to a Sniffspot offers a safe, private environment for your dog to run and play. Even if you don’t have a large yard, finding a secure space for your dog to stretch their legs and explore can make a world of difference. Walks, runs, and playtime with other dogs are also great ways to burn off excess energy.

Mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and even just spending quality time with your dog can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom-related behaviors. Consider teaching your dog new tricks, hiding treats around the house for them to find, or providing them with interactive toys that challenge their problem-solving skills.

Anxiety and Stress

Tail biting can be a way for anxious dogs to self-soothe. Just like humans might bite their nails or fidget when they’re stressed, dogs might turn to tail biting as a coping mechanism. Anxiety in dogs can stem from a variety of factors, including environmental stressors, social dynamics, and past experiences.

Cramped Living Spaces

If your dog’s living space feels too small or restrictive, it can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress, potentially manifesting as tail biting. Ensure your dog has enough room to move around comfortably and that their environment feels safe and secure. Creating a dedicated space for your dog, like a cozy den or bed, can also help them feel more relaxed and secure.

Aggression from Other Pets

If your dog is being bullied or intimidated by another pet in the household, it can create a stressful environment that triggers anxiety-based behaviors like tail biting. If you have multiple pets, make sure they’re all getting along and that there’s no underlying tension or aggression. Providing each pet with their own space and resources can help minimize conflict. If the aggression continues, consult with a certified professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist.

Trauma or Abuse

Past trauma or abuse can have a lasting impact on a dog’s emotional wellbeing and may contribute to anxiety-related behaviors like tail biting. If your dog has experienced trauma, it’s important to work with a qualified veterinary behaviorist or certified professional dog trainer to help them address their anxiety and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Patience, understanding, and a consistent approach are crucial for helping a traumatized dog feel safe and secure.

Attention-Seeking Behavior

Sometimes, dogs might bite their tails simply to get a reaction from their owners. If you notice that your dog’s tail biting seems to coincide with times when they’re feeling ignored or want attention, it’s possible they’ve learned that this behavior gets them what they want. While it’s important to give your dog plenty of love and attention, try not to inadvertently reward the tail biting behavior by reacting to it directly. Instead, focus on giving them attention when they’re exhibiting positive behaviors, like playing calmly or responding to commands.

Compulsive Behavior (Genetics/Breed Predisposition)

Some breeds are more prone to compulsive behaviors like tail chasing due to genetics and selective breeding. German Shepherds, for example, are known to be predisposed to this behavior. If you have a breed that’s known for compulsive behaviors, it’s important to be aware of this predisposition and to work with your veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer to develop strategies for managing these behaviors. Early intervention and consistent training can often help mitigate the severity of compulsive behaviors.

Tail biting can be a displacement behavior for stress and anxiety

When dogs are stressed, they may engage in self-directed behaviors as a way to cope or alleviate their anxiety. Tail-biting can be a self-soothing mechanism for some dogs—it can provide temporary distraction or relief from their discomfort.

This can quickly turn into a compulsive behavior if left untreated (much like other repetitive behaviors such as chewing on household objects or chasing after light reflections).

How to Treat a Tail InjuryHow to treat a tail biting injury

If your dog:

• bites their tail to the point of bleeding,
• has created a sensitive spot by tearing out fur,
• appears to have injured one of their tail bones,
• or shows other signs of physical harm

a vet visit is in order. Call your dog’s healthcare team right away! The presence of blood is never something to take lightly.

Your veterinarian will be able to help you clean the area. They’ll assess whether you need a more robust bandage or even a round of antibiotics (oral medication or some topical creams) to clear up potential infection.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention

If your dog bites their tail to the point of bleeding, creates a sensitive spot by tearing out fur, appears to have injured a tail bone, or shows other signs of physical harm, a vet visit is critical. Never take the presence of blood lightly. Your veterinarian will clean the area and assess whether you need a more robust bandage or even a round of antibiotics (oral medication or topical creams) to prevent or clear up a potential infection.

Ignoring the problem can lead to skin infections and other health complications. If you catch your dog chewing on their tail, hind end, or any other part of their body, contact your veterinarian. A full checkup is always a good idea, especially with a new behavior. Your vet will help you identify and address any underlying medical issues. For less severe cases, you might be able to treat the issue at home.

How to Stop Tail BitingHow to prevent your dog from biting their tail

The best way to keep your dog from biting their tail? Provide them with appropriate fulfillment—and address any underlying health or behavioral problems!

Identify the cause of your dog’s tail biting

If you think your dog’s tail biting is an issue—it disrupts their daily activities, causes injury, or makes you worried that something deeper is wrong—it’s a good idea to revisit the causes listed above. Try to figure out what might be going on.

Your veterinarian can be a huge asset here. Even if you aren’t sure your dog’s tail biting is caused by an underlying health problem, it’s a good idea to check. Your vet team will help you identify and treat any acute medical conditions that might be contributing to your furry companion’s behavior. Preventative medications and other treatments can do wonders for things like chronic skin infections, allergic reactions, parasites, and more.

Address any underlying problems

If your dog is physically healthy but still biting their tail excessively, consider if they get enough enrichment. Could they be bored or looking for your attention? If so, make an effort to engage in more fulfilling activities with them.

Our Comprehensive Guide to Enrichment Activities compiles everything you need to know about fulfilling your dog’s needs in our modern human world!

Home Care and Grooming

Regular grooming helps prevent matting and irritation, which can make your dog uncomfortable, especially around their tail. A comfortable dog is less likely to engage in excessive chewing. Brushing your dog regularly, and taking them for professional grooming when needed, can go a long way toward keeping their skin and coat healthy. This is especially important for dogs with long or thick fur.

Regular Flea and Tick Prevention

Fleas, ticks, and even intestinal parasites like tapeworms can cause intense itching. Protecting your dog against these pests is crucial for their overall health and can significantly reduce the likelihood of tail biting due to discomfort. Maintaining a consistent flea and tick prevention routine, as recommended by your veterinarian, is a simple yet effective way to keep your dog comfortable and itch-free.

Environmental Enrichment and Exercise

A bored dog is often a dog who finds ways to entertain themselves—and sometimes, that entertainment manifests as destructive behaviors like tail biting. Providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can prevent this. Regular walks, playtime with engaging toys, and even training sessions can help keep your dog happy, tired, and less likely to resort to self-destructive behaviors. A visit to a Sniffspot can provide a novel and exciting change of pace for your dog, offering new sights, smells, and opportunities for exploration.

Temporary Distractions (Toys, Activities)

If you catch your dog in the act of tail biting, redirecting their attention with a toy or a fun activity can interrupt the behavior. Puzzle toys, chew toys, or even a quick game of fetch can help shift their focus and provide a more appropriate outlet for their energy. This won't address the underlying cause of the behavior, but it can be a useful tool in the moment to prevent further harm.

Work with a trusted dog trainer

If you’re worried about your dog’s mental health or struggling to work through their tail biting on your own, reach out to a force free trainer. They’re here to help! A canine professional will be able to develop an individualized treatment plan to get you and your pup back on the right track.

Professional Help (Veterinary Behaviorist/Certified Animal Behaviorist)

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we need a little extra help. If you’ve tried addressing potential medical issues and enriching your dog’s life, but the tail biting continues, it might be time to call in reinforcements. A veterinary behaviorist or a certified applied animal behaviorist can offer specialized support for your pet.

These professionals have extensive training in animal behavior and can help identify the root cause of your dog’s tail biting. They can develop a tailored behavior modification plan to address the specific reasons behind the behavior, whether it stems from anxiety, compulsive tendencies, or other underlying issues. They can also help you rule out any lingering medical conditions that might be contributing to the problem.

Working with a professional can provide you with personalized guidance and support, giving you and your dog the best chance of overcoming this frustrating habit. Just like we sometimes need a therapist to help us sort through our own complex emotions, our dogs can benefit from professional guidance. It’s a sign of strength to seek expert advice when you need it. The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists is a great resource to find a qualified professional near you.

Trainer Review of this Article

There is so much misinformation out there, and we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers. 

This is the trainer that reviewed this article:

Hallie Wells
Owner-Lumos Dog Training, Atlanta, GA
Certified Professional Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)
Applied Animal Behavior Analysts (UW-AABA)

Finding the Right Resources for Your Dog on Sniffspot

Dog Parks and Safe Spaces for Play and Exercise

Sometimes, a change of scenery and new smells can do wonders for a dog's anxiety and boredom. As mentioned earlier, boredom can contribute to tail biting, so ensuring your dog gets adequate physical exercise and mental stimulation is key. Sniffspot's dog park listings can be a great resource for finding safe and enriching spaces where your dog can run, play, and explore. Whether you're looking for a refreshing dog water park, hiking trails for an adventurous outing, or all-weather indoor parks, Sniffspot has options to suit every dog's needs. Providing your dog with opportunities for physical activity and exploration can help alleviate boredom and reduce the likelihood of tail biting and other destructive behaviors.

Top Dog Trainers

If your dog's tail biting stems from behavioral issues, professional guidance can be invaluable. Sniffspot can help you connect with qualified dog trainers who can provide personalized support and guidance. A professional trainer can assess your dog's behavior, identify underlying causes of tail biting, and develop a tailored training plan. They can also offer valuable insights into managing anxiety, stress, and other behavioral factors that may contribute to tail biting. Remember, seeking professional help is a sign of strength and dedication to your dog's well-being. It's always a good idea to consult with a trainer if you're struggling to manage your dog's tail biting on your own.

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Related Articles

• Tail Biting in Dogs | Causes, Training, and Treatment
• Dog Tail Chasing | Chasing Tail Causes and Training
• Why Dogs Nip | Stop Puppy Nipping | Sniffspot
• How To Stop Your Dog From Biting

Frequently Asked Questions

My dog chases his tail sometimes, but doesn’t seem to bite it. Should I still be concerned?

Occasional tail chasing is usually harmless, especially in puppies. It becomes a concern when it's excessive, the dog is injuring themselves, or it seems driven by anxiety. If you're unsure, it's always best to consult your vet.

What's the quickest way to stop my dog from biting their tail in the moment?

Try redirecting their attention with a toy, a chew, or a favorite game. This interrupts the behavior, but won't address the underlying cause. For long-term solutions, you'll need to identify and address the root of the problem.

My dog has started biting their tail and I’ve noticed some blood. What should I do?

Any injury causing bleeding requires immediate veterinary attention. Your vet can clean the wound, assess the severity, and recommend appropriate treatment, which might include bandaging or antibiotics.

Could my dog’s tail biting be caused by something other than a medical issue?

Absolutely. Boredom, stress, anxiety, and even attention-seeking behaviors can lead to tail biting. Consider your dog's environment, activity levels, and any recent changes that might be causing them stress.

I’ve tried everything, but my dog is still biting their tail. What are my next steps?

If you've ruled out medical issues and addressed environmental factors, it's time to consult with a professional. A certified dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can help identify the underlying cause and create a tailored behavior modification plan.

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