The dog breeds most likely to suffer tail injury - Boxers top the list

"Researchers from the Royal Veterinary College have now revealed which breeds are the most likely to suffer one of these nasty injuries. Boxers come in at the top of the list, with these large dogs being 3.6 times more likely to hurt their tails than mixed-breed dogs. The English Springer Spaniel comes in second (2.46 times more likely), followed by the Cocker Spaniel (1.86 times)."

"'Although this new paper shows that tail injuries are relatively uncommon in dogs overall, owners of very active types of dogs such as Boxer, English Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel should be aware of their increased risk and try to reduce trauma to these dogs' tails.' Besides wagging to greet their owners, dogs' tails play an important role in helping them balance, communicate with other dogs, and scent mark their territories."

"Worryingly, tail injuries disrupt these normal, healthy behaviours and cause 'serious welfare risks'. Tail injuries are most frequently caused by blunt force trauma, such as from catching the tail in a door, or from cuts and lacerations on sharp objects like barbed wire. In some cases, they can also be self-inflicted as dogs can chew on their own tails due to pain, irritation, or anxiety."

Boxers are 3.6 times more likely to suffer tail injuries than mixed-breed dogs. English Springer Spaniels are 2.46 times more likely, and Cocker Spaniels 1.86 times more likely. French Bulldogs are almost ten times less likely to hurt their tails than mixed-breed dogs. Tail injuries are relatively uncommon overall but can disrupt balance, communication, and scent-marking, creating serious welfare risks. Common causes include blunt force trauma from doors, cuts and lacerations on sharp objects like barbed wire, and self-inflicted chewing from pain, irritation, or anxiety. Owners of active or high-risk breeds should take precautions to reduce tail trauma.

Read at Mail Online