Why is my dog suddenly chewing the tip of his tail? What's wrong?

Question

Dog will not stop chewing his tail. It is in the same spot (located near the tip of his tail) this just started over the last couple of days. Advice?? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 5 years and 10 months old

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

If your dog is not currently on any medication for fleas, this is the first thing I would recommend - chewing at the tail, in particular, is very common for dogs with flea problems. If fleas are not the issue, then he may have some other skin problem causing burning and itching in this area, such as a seasonal allergy or a bacterial or fungal infection. Less commonly, chewing at the tail can also be a sign of a nerve problem like lumbosacral stenosis, or a stress-related compulsive behavior. I would recommend having Charlue examined by a vet to determine the problem and get him started on appropriate treatment - usually, antibiotics and steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs are needed to resolve this kind of problem.

Why is my dog suddenly chewing the tip of his tail? What's wrong?

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