When dogs start biting and chewing on their own tails frequently, it's a sign that something is wrong. Dogs have very sharp, pointed teeth that can do a lot of damage and cause dangerous wounds and infections. Biting your own tail can have various causes and can develop into compulsive behavioural disorders.


This behaviour can be caused by an existing infection, severe itching in the tail area or simply boredom. Fleas that have nested in the tail can be a reason for this behaviour. Other possible causes are skin allergies or pain. In this case, a vet should definitely be consulted.

If the compulsive chewing on the tail is caused by wounds or infections, the tail should be wrapped with bandages. Simply use a normal, elasticated bandage. Before wrapping the tail, the wound can be treated with iodine or other disinfectants. The bandage will help the wound to heal without the dog's sharp teeth aggravating it further. Of course, it is important to check regularly that the bandage is still in place and that the dog has not forcibly removed it.

When dogs chew their own tails out of boredom, the best way to relieve their boredom is to keep them busy. Dog toys are a good way to keep dogs occupied, especially chew toys that they can satisfy their biting instinct without causing harm. A bad habit such as tail chewing cannot be stopped immediately, but can only be reduced over time. A rubber tail tied to the dog's rear end is also worth a try. Dogs are often fascinated by the second tail and chase after themselves. However, it should not be forgotten that dog toys are mainly used to distract the dog from its behavioural disorder. The behavioural disorder must be treated. The dog must learn that it is not allowed to do this and must be reprimanded with a sharp command every time it tries to chew on its tail.

Another way to prevent the dog from biting its tail is to rub it with a bad smelling or tasting substance. Non-toxic substances that can be rubbed onto the tail include Tabasco sauce, cayenne pepper or bitter fruit juice. The substance can either be applied directly to the tail or to a cloth wrapped around the tail. The aim is to connect the biting of the tail with a negative association, in this case a bad taste or pungent odour in the sensitive dog's nose.