5 Reasons Why Dogs Chase Their Tails

Dogs are playful creatures by nature, and most of us have watched a pup run around in circles chasing his tail. What may just seem like an amusing quirk could actually be a behavior that is worth looking into. Here are a few explanations for why your cute canine is chasing his tail.

Boredom

It is not uncommon to see a puppy spend minutes spinning in circles to try and catch its own tail. This entertaining habit is normal for puppies, who are naturally very playful. Tail chasing usually happens when a puppy is bored, which can be often for an energetic puppy! As the puppies get older, this usually fades away. 

Breed

Some dogs have a genetic predisposition to tail chasing and other compulsive behaviors. For breeds like German Shepherds, Bull Terriers, and Dobermans, tail chasing is not so much a silly game as it is a hereditary tendency.

 Fleas or Worms

If an older dog is consistently chasing his or her tail, its a good idea to go for a check up at your veterinarian. Tail chasing is not always all fun and games. It could actually be a sign that they have fleas or worms. So check with your local vet to make sure your dog is healthy. 

Attention Seeking

Dogs crave attention from humans, and they may do something as silly as chasing their tail to get it. Getting your dog active attention from humans is important. Simple things like a good belly rub or a Frisbee toss will make your dog happy and less likely to come up with his own ways to be entertained. 

Excessive Energy

If you have a high energy dog, they will need plenty of physical activity. Without it, they may resort to exerting energy by tail chasing. To avoid this behavior, consider increasing your dog's daily activity level. 

Is your dog chasing its tail? Bring them to Morris Animal Inn! We have plenty of activities to keep them active and entertained, including pampered pet sessions for dogs seeking some extra TLC, canine cardio sessions for high energy dogs, and more! To find out more about the activities we offer, visit www.MorrisAnimalInn.com or call 973-539-0377. 

Source: wonderopolis.org, petful.com, vetwest.com, dognotebook.com

Your Best New Workout Buddy...Your Dog!

Compared to their scavenging ancestors, most dogs today are couch potatoes! They get their food for free and are often home alone and inactive for most of the day. This lack of purpose leaves dogs no outlet for their naturally active tendencies—physical and mental—and it can contribute to the development of behavior problems.

Problems that may result from lack of exercise and play:

• Destructive chewing, digging or scratching
• Investigative behaviors, like garbage raiding
• Hyperactivity, excitability and night-time activity
• Unruliness, knocking over furniture and jumping up on people
• Excessive predatory and social play
• Play biting and rough play
• Attention-getting behaviors like barking and whining

Daily exercise will:

• Help to reduce or eliminate the common behavior problems listed above, such as digging, excessive barking, chewing and hyperactivity
• Help to keep dogs healthy, agile and limber
• Help to reduce digestive problems and constipation
• Help timid or fearful dogs build confidence and trust
• Help dogs feel sleepy, rather than restless, at bedtime or when you’re relaxing

Exercise has so many benefits for you and your dog! Looking to be more active this summer? Your dog can be your best work-out buddy. It's a win-win for the both of you! Unlike a friend who might bail at the last second, you pup is always eager to get outside and be active with you. Studies show that dog owners are almost 40% more active than non-dog owners. Just be sure to not push your work-out buddy too hard, especially in the summer heat!

To honor the Women's World Cup, Morris Animal Inn will be hosting a FIFA Fit Camp June 8-12,2015 for dogs who are looking to increase their fitness endurance or just looking to burn off that extra energy during the work week. Activities will include warm-up cardio activities like stair work-outs, treadmill trots and trail runs, a championship soccer game in group or private dog play, and cool-down activities like swimming or a nice massage. Find out more information here. 

Lastly, PetMD offers many ways to be active summer and have fun with your dog! Whether your dog prefers a nice long walk or splashing and swimming, there are endless options to enjoy together. Be sure to consult your veterinarian for more ways to keep your pup safe and in shape. Happy exercising!

Source: ASPCA