Tail Chasing

Though tail chasing is often a normal activity seen in moments of excitement, it can indicate itchiness or inflammation near the tail base, lower back, genitals or  anus. Physical discomfort associated with these areas may be traced to external parasites, internal parasites and anal sac disease, to name a few causes.

As endearing or amusing as it may appear, tail chasing should not be encouraged by praise or any form of attention. In dogs, and rarely in cats, the behaviour may persist into adulthood and can progress to self-mutilation. In its extreme form, tail chasing and biting is directed most frequently toward the tip of the tail, though any accessible part of the tail may be involved. The dog may be highly agitated, growling as it chases and bites itself. It may redirect its aggression toward anyone who interferes with its activity.

This behaviour should be investigated early in young dogs so as to eliminate the possibility of underlying physical problems. Young dogs should be firmly reprimanded with a firm "no" and immediately distracted with an alternative acceptable activity, such as a chew toy or an obedience drill. If tail chasing has already progressed to injury, immediate veterinary attention is advised. Steps to prevent further injury include medication and behaviour modification, as directed by a veterinarian who specializes in pet behaviour problems.

Shadow Chasing

Shadow chasing is an unusual behaviour in which the dog appears to chase imaginary or real patterns of light. It may occur in brief episodes or for more prolonged periods.
It may be a form of seizure in some dogs. Most often, it is not harmful to the dog and remains a puzzle to the owner. Some aspects of shadow chasing suggest it may also be a form of play for some dogs, or perhaps it is a way to get attention.

Excessive shadow chasing in dogs can be controlled with medication. During normal play, cats may appear to chase invisible objects, but this rarely progresses to more intense displays.

Fly Chasing

Normal cats and dogs often chase, capture and even eat flying and crawling insects. The behaviour known as fly chasing involves pursuit of an imaginary insect or other flying object. Like shadow chasing, it is often harmless and amusing. It deserves professional attention only to exclude it as an unusual form of seizure. Seizures, which can be difficult to diagnose in pets, can progress to more generalized convulsions. When carried to extremes, any unusual behaviour warrants diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

                 by Stefanie Schwartz, DMV, MSc,