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Why is my dog licking a lot and holding his tail low? Is he anxious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 12 years and 9 months old | 9 lbs

According to my research, a tail straight down , not in between his leg, just outside of it and it doesn't move like in this picture, the third picture in particular, it would mean it's submissive and concerned. And if it's licking anyone a lot it "could" mean that it's Obsessive licking which may be a sign of underlying issues, including anxiety, boredom, or fear. So would it mean that my dog if he licks a lot and has that tail low like the pic, that my dog is anxious? Or am I overthinking?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 28th, 2021

It is very difficult for me to answer your question without seeing Caramelo myself. If this is a new behavior, at his age, I would suggest you have him examined by your vet for the possibility of an underlying medical issue. Always rule out medical issues before assuming there is something behavioral going on. Excessive licking can mean there is underlying nausea which could be due to many different conditions. Checking him out first by your vet is key. If there is no underlying medical issue found then he may have anxiety in which case you can try an over the counter supplement like Zylkene. ( https://worldtails.securevetsource.com/itemView/view/198943_Home.pml?productId=115875 )

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