tail

Question
Dear Ms Connell, thank you for taking time to read this.
Over the past day and a 1/2 - my dog's tail has been down. Normally, it's always up and wagging, etc. Any initial thought as to what this usually is due to ?
Thanks much,
Steve

Answer
Hi Steve,

There are a few things that could be happening, some are very common, others are not.

The most common cause of this is that the dog has actually injured or broken the tail at the base, or the tail head. They can do this by falling on it, being hit by a car, being bit on it by another dog or even a cat. When it hurts they will not lift or wag it.

Other causes are less common, spinal injuries, trauma to the nerves, infections, etc.

The bottom line is that you need to have it looked at if he doesn't start lifting it soon. It can impede with defecation etc. and really needs to treated.

Sometimes it can't be treated and must be amputated, but get your vet to look it over first before you get worried.