Question: how do you know if your dog has a foxtail?
Answer: Check for foxtails if you notice swelling or limping or if your dog is constantly licking the area. Ears. If your pooch is shaking his head, tilting it to the side, or scratching incessantly at an ear, this could be the sign of a foxtail -- one that may be so deep inside the ear canal you can't see it.