The dog's tail plays a fundamental role in its anatomy. It has nothing to do with aesthetics, but rather fulfills functions such as helping the dog communicate, both with humans and with others of its species. A stiff and tense tail tells us that the dog is upset, while if it swings in energetic movements it expresses his happiness.
Aside from its significant positions, it also helps you when walking, running, jumping and swimming. But its tail is particularly sensitive to injury. Despite being made up of bone, muscle and tendons, this area is fragile and exposed to conditions such as breaks, fissures and fractures.
A fracture or break in the tail is very painful for the dog, in addition to preventing it from moving normally and doing its business. Therefore, it is important to detect when the dog may have broken its tail, in order to go to the vet as soon as possible.
A fracture in the dog's tail is more common than it may seem. You can break it or injure it in everyday movements such as walking, running, jumping, playing or doing any other physical activity.
A fall from the dog itself or an object accidentally falling on its tail can also lead to it breaking. As well as accidentally stepping on its tail or breaking it in a fight with another animal. Likewise, the fracture can be caused by a run over or by the dog hitting it against a hard surface. Finally, a congenital malformation can also cause a tail injury.
If you suspect that your dog may have an injury to its tail, you should go to the vet as soon as possible. There, professionals will carry out a complete examination of the animal's condition. This review will probably include an x-ray or CT scan to discover if there is indeed a fracture and what area is affected.
Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the injury. It may consist of the prescription of anti-inflammatories, or require surgery. In any case, recovery will also involve ensuring that the animal rests, does not make sudden movements and only practices physical activity following the veterinarians' guidelines.
