Dogs use their tails for so many things including communication with other dogs, as well as pet parents. Nothing is sweeter than your canine companion comes running at high speed, wagging their tails happily behind them!
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This is what we expect from our dogs but what happens when a dog suddenly develops a kinked tail? Is this something serious?
What Causes a Crooked Tail in Dogs?
A sudden crooked tail can be caused by several different types of problems. These can include:
Broken tail: dogs can break their tails in many different ways. Sometimes pet parents step on their dog’s tail by accident. Another cause of a broken tail may be from playing too roughly and hitting the tail on something or even by hitting the tail hard against the wall.
Cuts: a tail can also become cut on by accident on a sharp object. Another cause can be fighting with other dogs and animals.
Skin infections: this made sound strange, but skin infections can even cause a crooked tail. This can be caused by the dog biting their tail over and over due to fleas or other issues. The skin can become infected, causing the dog to bite even more. It can happen that a dog bites his tail so much that it breaks.
Tail dislocation: this is a more serious issue. This type of injury can also be caused if someone accidentally steps on the dog’s tail. Another cause is if the dog’s tail is shut in a door; it’s possible the dog will pull hard to get his tail released, which can lead to the tail being pulled. This can dislocate the vertebrae in the tail.
So, if your dog suddenly develops a crooked tail, then it’s a good idea to call the vet. Your dog may need medical treatment for this condition.
Symptoms of a Crooked Tail in Dog
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has suddenly developed a kink in his tail:
- Guarding tail
- A change in the way he walks
- Repeated licking or biting of the tail
- No wagging, or wagging to one side
- Limp, hanging tail
- Inability to move the tail
- Whimpering (caused to pain and discomfort)
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Ask a Vet Live NowTreatment of Crooked Tail in Dogs
Treatment of fur baby’s crooked tail will depend on the vet’s diagnosis. If the tail is broken, then the vet may allow it to heal on its own. In other cases, your dog may need surgery. The surgery is not done to correct the appearance of the tail, but to fix the underlying problem.
The good news is that dogs will go on to a full recovery; however, they may have a crooked tail for the rest of their lives. This only makes your fur baby more special and unique!
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Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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