Tail biting for no reason

[SANDY MCRITCHIE]

I have a 2 yr lab that has always hated her tail since puppy. Whether just standing or walking or eating she constantly looks at her tail then will go  to growl at it and bite it. Medical Conditions are all ruled out. How do I break her from this behavior? All ideas welcome.. 

[Adrienne Farricelli]

Hi there, welcome to the forums!

There is tail biting and tail biting.  Can you please provide more details please?

At what age did this behavior start? 

Is this behavior really constant? I know it often may feel constant to us, but in other words, does she seem to be engaging in any other activities during the day? Like can she enjoy a meal without thinking about the tail? If there are other dogs to play with, will she still focus on her tail? If you are training her or doing brain games, does she go back to her tail? 

You mention this has been going on since a puppy. What has been your response to her tail biting ever since? And what have you tried so far?

What is her typical day like? Is she being walked, provided with brain games, training and food puzzles? Do you work long hours? 

Does she show signs of fear or anxiety?

Did you ever notice a pattern where the tail biting occurs in a specific situation?

Does she even do it when you are not around?

Has the vet done a very thorough physical exam? I mean did they check her anal glands? Did they rule our skin allergies? Did they rule out parasites? Did they run bloodwork? What have they suggested so far?

Does she cause any problems to the tail? Bleeding, loss of hair, cuts and scrapes?

Is he free-fed his meals? Like do you keep the food out all day or do you adhere to scheduled meal times?

What food is he fed? Is it high in fats by any chance?

Sorry for all these questions, but this behavior can stem from a variety of underlying causes!