Do you know what limber tail syndrome is?

Limp tail or limber tail tends usually affects working or sporting dogs. It is also sometimes referred to as swimmers tail, cold water tail, dead tail, sprung tail or frozen tail. The dog’s tail suddenly goes limp and almost looks as if broken because it simply hangs. This condition can come on after large amounts of exercise including swimming but it can also come on after heavy exercise of any kind.

The jury is still out on exactly why limber tail comes into being but it is definitely not the bone affected. It can be compared to a sprain in the muscles near the base of the tail. Overexertion or overuse appears to be the culprit so if your dog experiences this syndrome they will need to be kept quiet for a week or so until the tail returns to normal. Imaging may be taken to confirm a diagnosis or rule out a fracture. Anti-inflammatories or painkillers may be prescribed.

Sometimes there is visible swelling around the base of the tail and the dog appears anxious or lethargic. Vets report that cases are more common if a dog which not used to a lot of exercise plunges in too enthusiastically. If a dog is returning to exercise or embarking on a new type of activity is best to ease them back in gradually.

Leah & Angela O’Meara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)