Water tail in dogs

Water tail is painful for dogs. Retrievers, spaniels and other water-loving breeds are the ones most often affected by water tail. The condition is probably caused by an inflammation of the muscles at the root of the tail that occurs when the dog has used its tail too much.

Symptoms of water tail in dogs

• The tail hangs as if paralysed straight down from the end of the back
• The tail can stand straight out a bit from the tail root and then hang straight down
• Your dog doesn't want to wag its tail
• Your dog may have difficulty sitting down or urinating if it is female
• Your dog shows signs of pain if you touch it on the tail or on the rear part of the back

Water tail often disappears on its own

Water tail usually clears up on its own in a few days if your dog and their tail are rested, and kept warm and dry. But if the dog is very bothered, painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication may need to be given. If the water tail does not go away in a few days, you should contact a veterinarian. Symptoms of water tail can also mean other types of diseases and injuries to the back.

Keeping an eye on your dog’s behaviour is key to ensuring that your dog stays happy and healthy. We have lots of useful, informative guides to help you even further including how to stop your dog from barking, how to recognise stress in dogs, as well as the impact of sleep on your dog’s wellbeing, and how to examine your dog. You’ll be a pro in no time.