Dead or Limber Tail

Condition Overview

This condition has been seen in Labrador Retrievers, Pointers, Setters, Foxhounds, and Beagles.

Symptoms

The dogs will hold their tails totally limp or out away from their body 3 - 4 inches, then hanging limply.

Dogs may act as if the tail is painful. It appears to be a sprain or strain of the tail muscles and nerves after working much harder than usual.

All symptoms +

Causes

This occurs most often after a strenuous day of hunting or swimming - especially if the water is cold.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by evaluating physical symptoms.

Treatment

Rest ans anti-inflammatory medications usually result in a normal tail in just a few days.

Prevention

There is no current prevention for this condition.

Support

Please contact your veterinarian with questions regarding this condition.