Understanding Your Pooch: Why Is My Dog Pulling Hair Out Of Her Tail?
You’ve probably seen your dog nibbling at their fur and licking themselves – it’s strange to us, but in most cases, this behavior is completely fine, but there are times when it should be a cause for concern.
If you have noticed that your dog is pulling hair out of their tail a lot, then you might be getting a bit worried.
Sometimes, they do this for completely nonsensical reasons, but other times, there is a root problem that you can blame for this behavior.
But don’t worry, we are here to help. If you are worried about your dog’s behavior and need help, then read on to understand your pooch and why they are pulling hair out of their tails.
Reasons Why Your Dog Is Pulling Hair Out Of Their Tail
Dogs can develop this hair-pulling habit for many different reasons. Sometimes, it’s as simple as being stressed, but in other situations, it could be something a bit more serious.
Below, you will find a few of the major reasons why dogs pull the hair out of their tail.
Getting a better understanding of all of these reasons will help you understand your dog and why they are exhibiting this behavior in the first place.
Flea Allergies
One of the main reasons why dogs pull the hair out of their tail is actually due to flea allergies.
Many dogs will catch fleas at least once or twice in their life, but not all dogs can actually tolerate them being on their bodies.
Fleas are generally more active in the warmer summer months, and if you have noticed a dramatic increase in hair loss around this time, then your dog might be allergic to fleas.
Sometimes, even just one bite from a flea can be enough to drive your pooch crazy, and they will just keep biting away until hair eventually gets pulled out.
The best thing to do in this situation is to seek support from your vet. Often, you will be prescribed good quality flea treatment and perhaps even some antibiotics if there’s a wound.
Other Allergies
While flea allergies are pretty common among dogs, it is not uncommon for them to be allergic to other things too.
If your dog has any food allergies or contact allergies (touching things like mold or grass), this can cause them to chew their tail in discomfort or pain.
The reason they are pulling their hair out is just a byproduct of the itching.
If you aren’t sure if your dog is allergic to something, watch them around unfamiliar surroundings or materials, and take them to a veterinarian if you are concerned.
Stress
Dogs express their emotions and well-being in lots of different ways, and when they are stressed enough, it can cause them to do things like pull out their hair.
Typically, it will be hair around the tail region because it is the easiest-to-reach area for them.
You would be surprised by how much of an effect stress has on dogs, and it’s not uncommon for them to resort to hair-pulling in these situations.
They can feel extreme stress in a lot of different situations. Things like a change in environment, loud noises, and being around strangers can be a cause.
In this situation, it is important to root out what exactly is causing their stress before you try and rectify the problem.
Anal Gland Issues
In other cases, the reason your dog would be pulling hair out of their tail could be down to anal gland issues.
This particular problem causes dogs a lot of stress and pain, which in turn causes them to try and attack the area that is causing them grief.
You can usually tell if your dog is suffering from anal gland issues if the area around the anus (or the anus itself) is swollen.
Other signs include consistently licking around this area, hair loss in this area and on the tail, and even butt-scooting.
If your dog is having anal gland issues, the best thing you can do is take them to a veterinarian and get them on antibiotics.
In some cases, they may need surgery for this, but consult with your vet before you take any extra steps.
Pain
Again, the tail is one of the easiest places for your dog to reach, so during times of pain and stress, they will chew on this area before anywhere else.
Like stress, pain can cause a lot of discomfort for your pooch, and if they are in enough pain, they will lash out by chewing hair out of their tail area.
They could be pulling the hair out of their tail because the pain is in the tail, too.
If your dog is suffering from a broken tail, tail arthritis, or something is stuck in the tail, this is usually enough for them to start pulling the hair out.
Like the previous reason, the best thing you can do in this situation is take your pooch to their vet.
They will be able to identify exactly what is causing the pain, and then they will be able to create a treatment plan.
Intestinal Worms
This one is quite intense to deal with (especially if you have a weak stomach), but sometimes the cause is because of intestinal worms.
Intestinal worms require fleas to be present in order for them to continue their life cycle, so if you have treated your dog for fleas and they are still pulling their hair out, you may want to check for intestinal worms, too.
You can tell if your dog has them. They are grain-like in appearance and generally come out of your dog’s butt.
This one is not pretty, but treatment is easily available for any pooch who needs it!
Conclusion
It’s not fun for the dog or the owner when a dog is pulling out their hair, but usually, it’s for a very explainable and treatable reason.
Make sure you check off the reasons we have included here to work out why your dog is pulling hair out of its tail.
Hey everyone! My name is Sharon Isaacs, and I am one of the co-creators of PawPrintPets.com.
I knew from a young age that canines were the most interesting animals to me, and ever since I could study, read, and go to school I’ve been researching the best dog training practices.
I started PawPrintPets to provide in-depth guides and information to help you set up your canine companion for success, from the moment you have them.
