Recently Lacey has got into the habit of really chewing on her tail. Could anyone suggest how to stop her, or is it OK for her to do this. She gets hold of it and really chews on it and quite often does a forward roll over her shoulder whilst holding on to it. It goes through me because she looks like she could break her neck or her back because of the positions she gets in with her weight resting on her neck and shoulder for what seems like ages. I know dogs play with their tail sometimes, but I have not seen one do what she does. Also, she tends to chew her paws too. I amafraid she will get into a habit that is not good for her and is hard to break. I would be grateful for any advice.
Thanks,

Debbie.

Hi Debbie

Chewing is normally a response to pain or itching that can then become a habit, especially it if attracts attention.

It might be possible, especially as you mention feet as well that she has harvest mites, ear mites or fleas. Dogs feet are often affected by ear mites because they scratch or rub ears with feet and when she sleeps curled up I imagine her tail and ears could be in close proximity.

Did she bruise or catch her tail anywhere before she started chewing on it. Try stopping her by just telling her NO and distracting her each time she starts otherwise, and probably a better idea get her checked over by the vet because with the main spine pain can be referred and I imagine the same could happen with a tail.

Christine

Chewing at the tail can often be a sign of anal gland discomfort. Also chewing or sucking the feet can be a sign/habit to ease discomfort.

My youngest bitch took to sucking her hindpaw when she had an eye ulcer that obviously was painful. Unfortunately it turns the white/grey fur orange. She does it every now and then when tired or bored (so it has become a habit, even when the original problem was sorted), doesn't chew but just slobbers and discolours it. I resort to using bitterspray on it. Also washing the foot with a clean flannel and water.

At this point I would get her anal glands emptied, and Frontline her in case she has picked up Harvest mites, which can really iritate the feet. I would use the spray and not the spot on, and spray the feet.

If its harvest mite definitely use the spray as the spot on wont get rid of them:( Gillian

How will I know if she has Harvest Mite? I have also noticed her getting amourous with the pad she has in her bed, could there be any connection with that? She has always done that, but not as much as lately. ( By the way, Lacey is a 5 month old Golden Retriever).

If yopu look very closely you may be able to see the mites on the skin onf her feet. They are tiny red mites. You may find it hard to see to the skin with a goldies thick fur.