If it seems like every time you turn around (or try to fall asleep) your dog keeps licking the base of their tail, this article is for you. In it, integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby discusses the top nine reasons a dog may incessantly lick the base of the tail. Plus, she explains how you and your vet can work together to help your dog feel comfortable again.
Have you ever been lying in bed trying to sleep, when your dog starts licking or chewing non-stop? That repetitive sound can suddenly seem so loud that all you can do is focus on it. How could you possibly sleep when your dog is so busy licking him or herself bald?
Meet Luke, a dog who couldn’t stop licking his tail
This is the exact reason that Luke, a 7-year-old German Shorthair Pointer, was brought in for an exam. His mom couldn’t believe how many hours a day Luke could focus on licking the base of his tail. She and her husband kept joking that Luke’s tongue would fall off before he would stop licking.
Since Luke and his family are avid hikers, his mom usually maintained a very strict schedule of applying flea and tick medication every month. However, they missed a dose that month due to Luke being with a pet sitter while they were on vacation. Luke’s mom was now worried that his incessant licking and chewing was a sign that he had fleas.
As I watched Luke while his mom was talking, it was obvious that Luke was very interested in the base of his tail. Normally, when he came in for an exam, he was busy sniffing the whole exam room for cookies. Not today. I assured his mom that we would look closely for fleas in Luke’s hair. In addition, I told her that I was going to do a thorough exam since there were several other reasons Luke could be licking so much.
9 reasons a dog keeps licking the base of the tail
Let’s take a look at the top nine reasons why a dog may be licking and chewing the base of the tail.
1. Fleas and flea allergic dermatitis
For many dog parents, when their beloved dog begins licking, chewing, or scratching, the first concern is fleas. No one wants to have fleas on their dog or in their home.
If fleas are present, the first sign is usually persistent licking, chewing, and scratching in the main areas where fleas like to reside. The most common spot is the base of the tail. Also, fleas frequently like to spend time around the neck and shoulder blades. However, they may be anywhere on the dog’s body, including the face and back.
Dogs and cats who have a larger infestation or a sensitivity to flea saliva (i.e. flea allergy) can have additional signs as well. Flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) is the term for the changes that occur as a result of a flea saliva allergy. Affected dogs may:
- Be intensely itchy
- Lose hair at the base of the tail or other areas
- Have red patches on their skin
- Have multiple, small scabs from the flea bites
Additionally, dogs who have a bad case of FAD can be prone to secondary skin infections.
Diagnosis of fleas
Fleas can sometimes be difficult to see with the naked eye. However, it may be worth seeing if you can spot any on your dog. They look like small, brown wingless insects which can jump quite far. Additionally, you can look for “flea dirt” (i.e. flea feces). It appears as black-brown specs or “dandruff” in the areas that fleas like to live. Another way to look for fleas is to buy a flea comb. Run the flea comb through your dog’s coat then examine it for the presence of fleas or flea dirt.
If you suspect that your dog has fleas like my veterinary client did, please consult your veterinarian. Sometimes, fleas can be very obvious during a physical exam without additional diagnostics. However, especially in very mild cases or very hairy dogs, fleas may not be as obvious. Your veterinarian may recommend additional tests such as a skin scrape to look for other parasites that could cause itching or skin changes. They also might perform blood work to look for anemia secondary to the fleas biting and feeding off of your dog.
Treatment of fleas
Thankfully, in most cases, if the vet diagnoses your dog with fleas, there are various treatment options that are readily available. At the very least, your veterinarian will recommend treating with flea prevention. Depending on your vet’s recommendation, this might be a chewable treat, liquid, collar, or topical medication that is applied directly to your dog’s skin.
Please note that your veterinarian’s office is the best place to get flea medications. Over-the-counter products may be ineffective or sometimes even dangerous.
Additionally, your vet may recommend bathing your dog and brushing him or her with a flea comb. If your vet uses a topical product to treat the fleas, ensure you ask him or her how long to wait to give your dog a bath.
Sometimes your veterinarian may recommend other medications like a dewormer since fleas can transmit tapeworms. Dogs with FAD also may need antibiotics for a secondary skin infection or allergy medicine for dogs to help relieve some of the allergic response.
Unfortunately, 95% of the flea population lives in the environment as eggs, larvae, and pupae (i.e. immature flea life) forms. Only 5% of the population will be on your dog as adult fleas. This means that addressing the immature fleas in the environment is very important. Vacuuming your house and furniture multiple times a day and washing all bedding in hot water can be helpful. In some cases, you may also need to flea bomb the house or use an environmental spray.
Be patient as it can take a lot of time and work to get rid of fleas completely.
2. Anal gland problems
What if, not only is your dog constantly licking his or her hind end, but also scooting it on the floor? Another reason for a dog licking the base of the tail is that his or her anal glands are full.
The anal sacs (i.e. anal glands) are two small scent glands that are located just below and on both sides of the anus. They contain a very strong fishy-smelling liquid or paste that helps dogs mark their territory. Most dogs empty them naturally when having a bowel movement. However, some dogs need help expressing them.
Signs that your dog’s anal glands might be full include:
- Licking the hind end
- Biting at the base of tail
- Scooting on the ground
- Straining to defecate
- A fishy odor coming from the rear end
If not addressed promptly, some dogs will get impacted or infected anal glands. When this happens, there might be small amounts of bright, red blood in the stool. You also could notice swelling or an open wound in the four o’clock and eight o’clock positions in relation to your dog’s anus.
Diagnosis and treatment of anal gland issues
If you notice any of the signs above, you should seek treatment for your dog with your veterinarian. Impacted or ruptured anal glands can be very uncomfortable and painful for your dog. And if there is an infection, the longer it goes untreated, the worse it can get.
When you take your dog to the veterinarian, he or she will probably perform a physical exam and a rectal exam. During the rectal exam, the vet can check and express your dog’s anal glands.
Depending on what your veterinarian suspects is going on, he or she may perform some additional tests. The vet might recommend treatment such as anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, warm compresses, or adding fiber such as canned pumpkin for dogs to the diet.
3. Food or environmental allergies
Another common reason why your dog may be persistently licking or biting at the base of the tail is allergies. Dogs get allergies just like we do, which are usually food or environment-related.
Food allergies are more likely to occur year-round or when diet is suddenly changed. On the other hand, environmental allergies tend to occur during specific seasons. This isn’t always the case, though. Just like in people, dogs can be allergic to multiple foods or multiple pollens, grasses, dusts, etc. in the environment. Also, dogs can have both food and environmental allergies.
Regardless of the allergy, your dog will likely be scratching, licking, or biting the base of his or her tail or other parts of the body. Dogs with allergies can also develop red, irritated skin. Some dogs may even suffer from otitis in dogs (i.e. ear infections).
There can be slightly differing symptoms between food and environmental allergies. Dogs with food allergies could experience vomiting and diarrhea in addition to skin problems. Dogs with environmental allergies are more likely to experience sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and increased shedding.
If your veterinarian diagnoses your dog with allergies, he or she will discuss the management options such as special foods, supplements, allergy shots, or medications. While allergies can’t be cured, the good news is that working with your vet to create a specialized plan for your dog can help him or her feel much better.
4. Contact dermatitis
Have you ever walked through a patch of weeds and noticed that within a few minutes your legs were itchy? This can happen to dogs too, and it is called contact dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis is similar to allergies but is a more localized response. It occurs when something irritating touches the skin. The irritating substance could be grasses, plants, carpet, soaps/shampoos, etc. As a result of the irritant, a local allergic reaction occurs.
This usually results in red, itchy skin and possibly hives. Contact dermatitis can occur anywhere on the dog’s body, but is most likely on the abdomen, feet, or around the tail and rear end. If a dog’s face comes in contact with the irritant, his or her eyes may be red and watery as well.
If you suspect your dog has contact dermatitis, you should wipe the irritated area with a warm, wet washcloth or give your dog a bath with a mild shampoo. You should also consult with your veterinarian. If the bath helps, your veterinarian may not do any diagnostics or treatment at that time. Otherwise, he or she will probably recommend diagnostic tests and treatments very similar to those mentioned above for allergies. Of course, you will also want to try to avoid contact with things your dog is sensitive to in the future if possible.
Contact dermatitis and food or environmental allergies can both result in something called a hot spot as well. Hot spots are painful areas of red, irritated skin and often can develop secondary infections. They can also ooze moisture, pus, or blood. Typically, they start in a very localized area where your dog is excessively licking and chewing. However, they can spread if ignored. If you notice a hot spot, please make an appointment with your vet promptly.
5. Internal parasites
Not only could your dog be licking and chewing at the base of the tail due to external skin problems, but there could be an internal cause as well. One reason might be that your dog has internal parasites, more specifically worms. The most common worms of concern are roundworms and tapeworms in dogs.
Roundworms are usually passed from mother dogs to their puppies or acquired when dogs ingest wildlife or feces of other animals. Tapeworms, on the other hand, are passed to dogs through ingesting fleas or consuming an infected prey species such as rabbits. If your dog is excessively licking and chewing at the base of the tail and diagnosed with fleas, it is likely that your veterinarian will want to check for tapeworms as well.
The most common sign that your dog has worms is the presence of worms in your dog’s feces. Roundworms will look like spaghetti noodles. Tapeworms look more like pieces of rice. Often your dog will act like his or her rear end is itchy. This might mean that your dog scoots on the floor or is non-stop licking and chewing at his or her tail and hind end. Dogs with worms may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
If you see worms in your dog’s feces, be sure to pick up the poop immediately to avoid other animals or children coming into contact with the worms. You should bring a fresh fecal sample to your veterinarian so they can test it for worms and other parasites. This will help the veterinarian determine what medication to give your dog. It is likely that your dog will be given a dewormer. If your veterinarian suspects tapeworms and fleas, your dog may also be treated for fleas as described above.
6. Hormone imbalances
Another internal cause of excessive tail licking is medical issues caused by hormone imbalances. When you hear the word ‘hormone” you might tend to associate it first with sex hormones, However, hormones are responsible for many other functions in your dog’s body. Some of them play a role in maintaining healthy skin and hair coat.
As a result, dogs with hormone-related conditions like Cushing’s disease in dogs, diabetes mellitus, and hypothyroidism in dogs may suffer from skin or coat problems like rough, patchy coats or bald spots. When the coat isn’t healthy, it can become itchy and irritating for dogs. The skin might also become thickened, rough, and possibly pigmented. Depending on what hormonal disease your dog has, there might be other clinical signs including:
- Decreased energy (a lethargic dog)
- Increased or decreased appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased thirst in dogs
- Increased urination
If you suspect that your dog has a hormone imbalance, you should consult with your veterinarian immediately. Certain hormone-related diseases can be life-threatening if ignored. It is very likely that your veterinarian will check blood work and a urine sample. Sometimes, X-rays or an ultrasound are needed as well. The exact treatment will depend on your dog’s diagnosis. Most likely though, it will involve a prescription medication and possibly a change in diet.
7. Pain
Excessive licking could be one of the signs your dog is in pain. This can be especially true in our beloved senior dogs.
Licking an area that hurts can be comforting to dogs. This is just like how you or I might massage an area on our bodies that hurts. Dogs also lick painful areas because their first instinct is to try to clean a “wound.” Dogs can’t always determine if the “wound” is external like a cut or internal like joint pain. Therefore, it is common that they will lick the painful area to try to clean and heal it.
An area could be painful due to skin disease or a hot spot as described above. In senior dogs, the area also might be painful due to osteoarthritis in dogs. If your dog is licking the base of the tail and hind end, it could indicate that he or she has arthritis in the lower spine (such as spondylosis in dogs), hips (possibly from hip dysplasia in dogs) or hind legs.
Diagnosis and treatment of pain
If your vet suspects arthritis or a bone problem, he or she will likely perform a thorough physical exam to assess your dog for lameness or decreased range of motion. The vet might also recommend X-rays to rule out broken bones or other bone abnormalities. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis that your veterinarian gives your dog.
If it is arthritis, your vet might discuss ways to relieve arthritis pain in dogs. This could include:
- Finding your dog’s body condition score and giving tips to help your dog lose weight
- Pain medications like NSAIDs, tramadol for dogs, gabapentin for dogs, or amantadine for dogs
- Omega-3 fatty acids for dogs (found in fish oil supplements)
- Joint supplements for dogs (including my favorite, Dr. Buzby’s Encore Mobility™ hip and joint supplement)
- Adequan for dogs
- Dr. Buzby’s ToeGrips® dog nail grips
- Ways to help your senior dog with arthritis at home
8. Behavioral problem or anxiety
Excessive licking can be a sign of a behavioral issue or anxiety problem as well. Some dogs will over groom themselves out of boredom. Initially, it starts out as a normal grooming behavior, but then it becomes a habit that the dog performs when there is no other stimulation. This is a similar to high energy dogs who destroy toys or furniture when they don’t get regular exercise and playtime.
Persistent licking can also be a sign of anxiety. With anxiety, dogs may lick so much that it causes harm to the skin and leads to possible infection. If your dog has anxiety, there could be other symptoms including:
- A dog who is panting and restless
- Decreased sleep
- Excessive whining or barking
- Pacing
- Destructive behaviors
- Eating too fast
- Fear of loud noise
Just like in humans, dog anxiety comes in many forms. Some cases of anxiety are more obvious than others and easier to diagnose. If you suspect your dog has anxiety, it can be helpful to video him or her doing the anxiety-related behaviors. Also, take note of what was going on in the house at the time.
Watching these videos will help your veterinarian understand what you are seeing at home when your dog is anxious. Some veterinarians will also use a questionnaire to help determine the specific type of anxiety your dog has.
Once your vet diagnoses your dog with anxiety, he or she may recommend medications or supplements to help manage the anxiety. Different exercise routines or games may be suggested as well. Remember, anxiety can be frustrating for you, your dog, and your veterinarian. This is another disease that may take time and trial and error to manage.
9. Grooming behavior
If your dog is licking the base of his or her tail but isn’t showing any other symptoms, it is possible that this is normal grooming behavior. Licking occasionally, or when the fur is dirty, is a normal way for dogs to keep their coat clean and shiny. However, dogs should not groom excessively to the point that they cause irritation or bald spots.
Luke’s reason for licking the base of his tail
After closely examining Luke and watching him lick the base of his tail during the exam, I determined that he did in fact have fleas. His mom agreed to a fecal test to rule out secondary tapeworms. Thankfully, he was tapeworm-free!
I sent Luke’s mom home with instructions regarding flea prevention and regular vacuuming of the house. She called me later that week saying Luke seemed more comfortable already.
Paying close attention to your dog’s behavior can help your veterinarian determine the cause of your dog’s constant licking. As I like to remind you, you are your dog’s biggest advocate and the one who knows him or her best. So if you suspect any of these nine reasons for licking the base of the tail, please contact your veterinarian. As always, your veterinarian is a wonderful resource for your dog’s health problems and truly wants your dog to be happy and healthy.
If your dog has ever licked the base of his or her tail, what was the reason?
Please comment below.
my dog doesn’t lick or scoop his butt across the floor my other dog licks the dog above the tail. my dog seem to find it hard to lay down has no energy looks sad and going down steps I noticed he’ll pick up his left leg
Hi Jack,
I understand your concern for your pup and agree this sounds worrisome. I highly recommend you schedule an appointment with your vet so your dog can be evaluated and receive appropriate treatment. Hoping there is an easy solution and wishing you both nothing but the best.
my dog had an issue last summer and it last 6 months with no vet knowing what was wrong. it got to the point where a quarter of her whole backside was bald. I tried using douxos3 on her abs within a week we saw hair growth and by march it was like it never happened but here we are AGAIN and its starting again. im using the shampoo more frequently again but it seems to be nit getting better. I caught it earlier this time but still no vet has any answers. we did multiple food trials, she has a flea collar, she did a dewormer, she too another medication as well. blood tests and allergy meds were done and we never found the source but its back and im.at a lose for my poor girl! she’s 1.5 yr old yorkie
Dear Stephanie,
I am so sorry your girl is having these ongoing issues with her skin. I can only imagine how frustrating this must be with all the testing and treatment you have done. Have you tried taking her to a dermatology specialist? Hoping for a miracle and that a diagnosis can finally be made. Bless you and your sweet girl.
Hi Steph, I suggest you to apply her anti-fungal cream or spray ( I bought over the counter with safer ingredients for dogs (Terbinafine Hydrochloride 1%) and bath him with medicated shampoo such as Malaseb twice a week. But remember don’t let her lick both topical and shampoo so wear a collar! My vet also couldn’t resolve this issue so I did my lots of research on my dog’s skin condition. Good luck!
Hey I got an EMERGENCY, My dog keeps literally licking holes in his skin, Like Spots where he licks it to the bone , it’s bad . We tried a vet, Tried maintaining food, tried flea medicine, , tried constantly washing him, We tried it all . And I’m at my wits end . You mind helping me with this
Hi Briley,
I am sorry your boy is experiencing this painful skin condition. I understand your concern and agree this needs to be addressed quickly. Was the vet able to make a diagnosis? What did they recommend? Without knowing the cause, it is hard to offer specific treatment options. This may be a case best handled by a specialist/veterinary dermatologist. Hoping you can get the answers needed to restore your dog’s health. Praying for healing and relief.
My year an a half border collie .. has been gnawing the base of her tail , originally I thought it was needing a cleaning after some bowel movement , however she is still doing it . She does however love dirt! When she runs around the yard the need to kick up dirt and stop and dig a little is her favorite part about running around it’s like a sign she’s going fast! I wipe her down when we come inside every time! However I don’t know that anyone else does while I’m away all day. Could it be dirt irritating her? She’s always been a little itchy but after a week since a bath.
Hi Nikki,
I am sorry your girl is dealing with this intense itching at the base of her tail. The most common reason for this would be the presence of fleas. Even if you aren’t seeing fleas, they could still be the culprit. Some dogs are more sensitive to flea saliva than others and it can take just one bite to set off a chain reaction of inflammation and itching that can last days to weeks. If your pup is not currently on a flea preventative that would be a good place to start. It is also a good idea to have your vet do an exam and rule out other potential causes. Hoping you can get an answer quickly and find a treatment that will offer your pup relief. Best wishes to you and yours!
Hi I have a female dachshund who’s almost 2 iv noticed she keeps licking her bottom area a lot and is now losing hair around it and on the backs of her legs and tummy too. Could this be a sign of worms ? She seems a little swollen down there but generally does when she comes on heat which is what iv assumed is coming soon
Please can you give me any advise thank you
Hi Annabelle,
I understand your concern for your Dachshund with the chronic licking and hair loss she is experiencing. While the presence of intestinal parasites could cause her to lick around her anus, I would not expect there to be hair loss, especially down her legs and on her stomach. Your best bet is to schedule an exam with your vet. They can do a thorough evaluation and help make a definitive diagnosis. Once a cause is identified, the appropriate treatment can be started. Hoping for some quick answers and a clear path forward. Best wishes and good luck!
I have 2 golden retrievers.. they are one and three. they both chew and itch just the same. could it be fleas even if we don’t see the fleas or maybe they both have a parasite.
Hi Jennifer,
I am sorry both of your Goldens are having issues with itching. This could definitely be fleas even if you aren’t seeing them! The problem with fleas is after they bite, the saliva left behind in the bite wound on a dog’s skin can be EXTREMELY irritating. Flea saliva can set off an allergic reaction that can keep dogs itching for weeks even after the flea is long gone. Of course, the itching could be cause by many other things as well. My best advice is to talk to your vet. They can examine your pups and rule out a lot of the possible causes. Also, if your dogs are not currently on a flea prevention, that would be a great first step! Just know that it can take up to 3 months to resolve a flea issue once it is established just due to the flea life cycle. So, if you don’t see results right away, don’t give up. You have to stay consistent. Best wishes and good luck!
I have a 1 year old female dachshund and she just recently started constantly licking her anus. she has been treated for worms, has had all of her shots and is on science diet dog food and vitamins, she gets the same as my other 1 year old dachshund. there is 3 months between them and my other dachshund isn’t constantly licking her bottom but the other dachshund i had her anal glands drained, should I have the first dachshunds anal. glads emptied?
Hi Lisa,
I understand your concern for your young pup with this new licking behavior she is exhibiting. Without examining her myself it is hard to offer specific recommendations. I am not sure what is causing her to lick at her bottom but think it may require a bit more investigation by your vet. If your other dog is not having any issues or showing any signs of anal gland problems, I would not have them expressed. The glands are supposed to empty on their own while the dog is having a bowel movement. They only become full when the glands are not emptying on their own. Since your other dog is not scooting on the ground or licking her bottom, if you had your vet check them with a rectal exam, they would likely be empty. Hoping you can get the answers you need to ensure your girl remains happy and healthy. Wishing you all the best of luck!
I have a 6 year old Labradoodle. She always has seemed to have allergies or irritation, licking her bum, base of tail, inside of legs and her skin in these areas is usually red and inflamed. Initially thought it was an anal gland issue, so she’s had those removed and is on Apoquel daily. I find the apoquel isn’t fully managing this licking and irritation, cytopoint didn’t work well in high allergy season either. She’s groomed regularly, on a flea/tick med, is active and healthy otherwise…but do notice she can be anxious.
Any advice for my sweet Doodle?
Hi Amy,
I am sorry your girl is struggling with chronic allergies and irritation. While apoquel and cytopoint are great for trying to reduce the body’s allergy response during a flare up, they don’t treat the underlying issue. It may be time to consider a referral to a veterinary dermatologist. They can help determine the cause for your pup’s allergies and offer guidance on treatment and allergy therapy. Hoping you can get the answers you need to offer your sweet girl relief. Wishing you all the best!
I have a two year old American pit bull he is healthy energetic but he is always licking and biting the base of his tail he also knows if he want us to scratch his back he backs up to us and I’m assuming he wants us to also scratch his tail. he doesn’t have fleas his coat is beautiful he doesn’t have hot spots or dry patches of skin. he does suffer sever separation anxiety. I’m not sure if that has anything to do with it
Hi Candi,
I am glad your boy seems to be doing well despite these strange licking and biting behaviors. If at any point this starts to become problematic, or you notice there are skin issues developing, I encourage you to have him examined by your vet. Wishing you both nothing but the best. Take care!
I have a 2 year 11 month old beagle male that has previously chewed his tail raw. I took him to the vet the first time and put him on Apoquel don’t think it’s spelled correctly, he also got a shot of antibiotics the second time and it stopped for a while but now he’s back at it. He eats chicken and rice nightly as do my other dog with no problem. What can be causing this issue and how do I treat it, it’s been very expensive so far. I’m going to take a specimen this week to test, but if nothing shows what do I do, his tail gets very sore over time. Help Please.
Hi Pamela,
I am sorry your pup is having these recurring issues with chewing his tail. You would definitely need to get some testing done to narrow things down since there are so many possible causes. Without examining your dog, myself, I can’t make specific conclusions or recommendations. If the underlying issue is allergies, then this could be a long road to recovery. You would need to find out what your pup is allergic to (food vs. environment) and then get the inflammation under control. Once things have settled down then it is just a matter of staying vigilant for when flare ups occur and acting quickly to treat them. There are also endocrine disorders or immune mediated disease that can cause skin problems like you describe. To get some answers you may need to do more advanced testing such as a skin biopsy or seek out a consultation with a veterinary dermatology specialist. I hope you can partner with your vet to find a good solution for your sweet boy. Wishing you both the best of luck for many happy years ahead.
I switched to fresh and raw diet my dog stopped biting his tail.
My male dachshund started having anal gland problems several years ago, which led to surgery and having them removed two years ago. I thought that would be the end of the constant licking under the base of his tail. Not so. He is still constantly licking under his tail. My vet can’t seem to come up with a solution. I have changed his diet numerous times (protein, grain free, limited ingredients), tried every allergy supplement on the market, tried probiotics, fish oil supplement, pain meds and apoquel. Nothing stops the licking. He is on Sentinel Spectrum and gets a topical (frontline) in peak flea season. He is absolutely miserable and makes me miserable, too. Please help.
Hi Ava,
This is such a puzzling situation. I understand why you are frustrated and not sure how to proceed. You have tried all the things I would normally recommend, and I applaud you for continuing to advocate for your dog’s health and well-being. The only other thing I can think of is maybe there is some neurological pain or strange sensation in that area due to the previous anal gland disease and surgery. It might be worth trying a medication like gabapentin or even a behavior modification treatment such as trazodone to see if it offers any relief. I highly recommend you discuss these concerns with your vet and see if they can offer any alternative therapies. I also wonder if acupuncture or laser therapy would be of any benefit. Hoping you can find the answers you need to ensure your sweet boy is feeling his best. Feel free to leave an update if you have a chance.