Age Old Question : Why Dogs Chase Their Tails ???

Why do dogs run in circles and chase their own tails? This dizzying behavior makes dog lovers curious. What could possibly cause a canine to twirl around this way, nipping at part of his own anatomy?

Tail chasing is a common habit for dogs, according to veterinary experts

even if it confounds humans. At least five causes may lead canines to trail their own tails.

1. Boredom

Natural predators, dogs often seem to operate on two speeds: asleep and alert. A canine may catch sight of his own wagging tail and suddenly jump up to give chase. This game also offers relief from boredom, particularly for a non-working or off-duty dog or a canine confined for too long.

This sort of tail chasing may signal the dog's owner to the pet's need for increased exercise.

2. Desire for attention

Along with the need for activity, dogs require affection and attention from their humans. Without this, a canine may resort to tail chasing, especially if this behavior has drawn petting or treats in the past.

3. Anxiety

Some dogs begin chasing their tails as a nervous habit. Stressful situations, sudden noises or constant surprises may even lead to obsessive compulsive tail chasing, as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) points out. Other compulsive behaviors among canines may include excessive self-grooming, imaginary prey hunting, overeating, and pacing.

4. Itching or irritation

Occasionally, a physical problem may cause a dog to chase his tail. Parasite infestations, such as fleas or ticks, can cause itching around the base of the canine's tail. Worms, rashes or dry skin may produce similar symptoms. A professional dog grooming or veterinary visit may be necessary.

5. Medical issues

Certain dog diseases and neurological disorders like epilepsy may encourage tail chasing. In such cases, the underlying veterinary medical concerns must be addressed before a dog may be trained to stop chasing his tail.

If you are bothered by your dog's taking off to run rings after his own tail, you can try to distract or occupy him by playing with him, taking him for a peppy walk, or offering him a favorite toy or treat. Under no circumstances should you pull the dog's tail to encourage chasing.

Of course, a dog that suddenly becomes obsessed with his tail may need veterinary attention.

Most often, however, tail chasing is normal doggy demeanor and not a genuine concern. Frequently, dogs naturally outgrow the whirling weirdness of chasing their own tails in time.