Is licking now your dog’s preferred pastime? There are numerous reasons why dogs like to lick you or other objects in their environment.

While some dogs lick objects out of boredom, licking may also be obsessive in some dogs and give off a peaceful and pleasant sensation. Licking that is self-stimulatory may also be an indication of discomfort or anxiety. Other dogs may lick excessively to the point of creating further issues.

Licking is fairly common, whether your dog is doing it to clean their best friend’s face after a messy meal or the floor after one. However, you should keep an eye on your dog’s licking habits since some occurrences may indicate a medical or behavioral problem.

The Reasons Dogs Lick Everything

Licking, though occasionally harmless, can also be an indication of a problem, whether it be behavioral or health-related.

Behavior Problems

If your dog licks multiple objects, it’s probably a self-soothing behavior or a compulsive habit. This behavior did not develop overnight and it will take time to break. It’s also crucial to understand that if your dog licks everything, they are also trying to tell you something by doing so.

Why Do Dogs Lick Particular Things?

Here are some possible explanations for your dog’s penchant for licking particular objects, humans, or other animals.

People

Dogs lick and groom themselves out of instinct. Some canines feel the need to lick their favorite person in the world, just as mother dogs will lick and clean their pups. Your dog likes to lick you, whether it’s as a display of affection or respect for you or to get the lunch crumbs that are still on your shirt.

Your dog might also decide to lick your skin after a workout because they think it tastes salty from the sweat. Many dogs will lick you because they are aware that doing so will catch your attention and will enable you to pet them without being distracted by anything else.

It can often be challenging to identify the precise reason for licking, therefore it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian to rule out alternative possibilities.

Air

It’s not always the case that your dog will lick the air after smelling freshly baked cookies. Dogs may start licking their lips before a meal or a treat.

However, excessive air-licking may be caused by a neurologic or compulsive problem. Take your pet in for a physical examination if they haven’t had a recent evaluation by your veterinarian. Licking the air might be a sign of discomfort, therefore your veterinarian will be able to rule out any brain illnesses as well as dental pain or disease.

Couches/Furniture

Although it may seem disgusting, your sweat or food from a late-night snack may have been left behind in the furniture, where your dog may later discover and enjoy a delicious treat. In order to investigate their surroundings and scan the environment for any new activity, dogs will often lick furniture.

Your furniture may avoid getting covered in saliva by being kept free of crumbs and having the surfaces cleaned.

Offer your dog engaging, delectable toys or interactive games to keep them occupied and prevent them from destroying your couch or other furnishings if it seems like they are compulsively licking the furniture. Pets may have extra energy at the end of the day that can be burned off with daily exercise.

Carpeting or Flooring

Dogs may lick the carpet or flooring to clean up messes, but this might result in destructive behavior when your dog eats or destroys objects. It’s possible for licking the floor to develop into an obsession.

To prevent your dog from licking and possibly chewing the floor, keep them engaged and stimulated throughout the day. If your dog loves the carpet, provide lots of playing and chew toys as alternatives. Keep the floor tidy and free of anything that can be poisonous to your dog or cause a blockage, such as food or items.

Their Games

Has your dog started licking its toys all of a sudden? Some dogs will lick their toys for a calming sensation, especially once they are reunited with a beloved toy. Dogs often find solace in their regular toys and surroundings, which can help them relax. Therefore, licking their toys occasionally usually doesn’t indicate a more serious problem.

Ears, Eyes, Mouths, etc. of Other Dogs

For a variety of reasons, some dogs will lick their furry pal, including:

• Comfort and communication to their companion
• Exploring
• Infection indicator (e.g., ear infection, conjunctivitis, gingivitis)

It might be cute and pleasant to see dogs licking one another. It should be avoided in excess though, as it might potentially result in other issues. It can result in new diseases by spreading bacteria from one dog to another. It is preferable to avoid allowing excessive licking because it can aggravate infections further.

Own Paws, Tails, Back, Legs, Lips, and Groin Area

Does your pet spend the majority of the day licking their feet or spending a lot of time grooming themselves? Dogs will lick themselves to maintain their appearance, but this behavior can also indicate allergies or other skin disorders, particularly if the affected area is inflamed, has hair loss, or otherwise seems strange. Contact your veterinarian if you see any of these symptoms as they could indicate dermatitis or skin inflammation.

The most frequent skin infections are brought on by an allergen in the environment, and these diseases spread and need to be treated. In order to prevent further discomfort to infected or irritated regions, your veterinarian may advise using an e-collar or “cone of shame” on your dog.

It is advisable to consult with your veterinarian even if you do not observe any inflamed skin in the area where your dog is frequently licking because this could be an indication of joint pain or arthritis.

Some dogs become bored and lick themselves repeatedly. By giving your dog plenty of excitement and exercise throughout the day, you can aid in preventing the emergence of this kind of behavior.

Health Concerns

A dog licking everything may also be an indication of an illness or digestive distress. You can find out if your dog has a health problem by having your dog examined by your veterinarian.

If you don’t pay attention to your dog’s licking, it could result in self-trauma, secondary illnesses, or undesirable, destructive behaviors. Always consult your veterinarian if you suspect that your dog may be infected because they may need to be treated.

Provide Distractions and Consult Veterinarian

To provide a positive distraction to your dog’s licking, try fetching outside or taking your dog for a run or walk. Additionally, kennel training your dog can prevent them from licking things in your house that could result in destructive behavior or the intake of dangerous materials while you are briefly away from home.

Consult your veterinarian for assistance if your dog is exhibiting other behavioral concerns so they can help rule out potential reasons. As compulsive licking might be an indication of separation anxiety, it’s critical to identify it as soon as possible to prevent further issues.

You and your veterinarian can talk about choices like contacting a professional trainer or an animal behaviorist who can thoroughly analyze your pet because such behavior might result in damaging or hazardous effects.