A veterinary surgeon has warned that dogs regularly chasing their tails could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Dr Oli Viner, co-founder of Hello Vet, said while many dog behaviours are normal, tail-chasing repeated frequently may indicate skin or anal gland problems, or boredom.
Dr Viner also highlighted two other behaviours linked to skin conditions: chewing feet and shaking the head excessively. In older dogs and cats, unusual vocalising may point to cognitive decline or dementia. The vet advised booking an appointment if any issue persists beyond a few days.
Head tilting, however, is usually harmless and signals curiosity as dogs try to localise sounds. The warning comes after research by Hello Vet found the most common pet owner concerns include bladder troubles (32%), ear complications (22%), digestive upsets (12%) and skin irritations (11%).
Dr Viner recommended consistent daily habits to prevent common problems: reduce stress, feed a balanced diet, avoid human food, bathe only as needed, and keep up with parasite treatments. He added: 'Small, steady efforts every day can make a big difference to your pet's long-term health and happiness.'
