Limber Tail in Labradors: Treatment for Cold Tail or Dead Tail in Labs

Causes of Dead Tail in Labradors

Male dogs seem to be most susceptible but females have been reported as developing the condition too.
Some people refuse to believe that limber tail in Labradors is not real. Quite the contrary!
Labs notoriously wag their tails so much and so fast, it seems impossible that the tail could be stopped by cold water or over exercising.

Cold water tail or limber tail in Labradors can also be caused by water that is too warm.
It is a strange, but true occurrence in any of the working breeds of dogs.
Also read bleeding tail injuries in canine
Many pet owners are devastated to see the effects of this condition and think the tail got broken somehow.

Symptoms of Dead tail in Labradors, or in any hunting breed are quite apparent and easy to spot.
The tail ceases to wag or move. It is virtually stuck in an unnatural position where it may extend outward a couple inches or so and then lay limp or in what appears to be a paralyzed or immobile state of hanging.
The tail may literally be stuck between the legs. The dog may have problems trying to pee with the tail in that position.
There seems to be pain associated with this unusual condition. Any light pressure from touch can cause a dog to wince and actually cry out.

Treat the dogs pain with buffered aspirin for a couple days twice a day. Dosages are generally 10 mg for every pound of your dogs weight.
Even buffered aspirin should not be given long term due to its side effects related to gastrointestinal bleeding.
Rest seems to be a miracle cure. It is also advised not to give your dog a bath with cold hose water outside.

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