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My dog's tail is swollen and sensitive from hitting walls. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My 7 year old Ridgeback Niko constantly slams his tail into walls and whatever is in the way. Lately it is swollen and sensitive. How can I treat it? We have tried triple antibiotics cream, wrapping it. Need help.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on August 2nd, 2019

If he is getting bloody from hitting the walls aka "happy tail", it is likely going to need to be bandaged and padded to help it heal. Your vet would be the best person to show you how to properly bandage it. The tail can be quite tricky because you have to wrap it in a way where it sticks and doesn't cut off any circulation yet it is padded to help it heal. If you decide to try to bandage it yourself just do not wrap the tape tight or it will cut off circulation which could cause the tail to die. I would make an appointment to see you vet as soon as you can. I hope this helps!

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