Why Dogs Lick and Chew
Licking and chewing behaviors are very common in dogs. There are several possible reasons dogs may excessively lick or chew themselves or other objects. One of the most common causes is itching or allergies. Allergic reactions to foods, parasites like fleas, or environmental triggers can cause dogs to feel very itchy. Licking and chewing at their skin is an instinctive way for dogs to try to relieve this itchiness or irritation.
According to WebMD, “Among the most common causes for compulsive dog licking, chewing, or scratching behaviors are fleas, ticks, and mites. Although ticks are often visible to the naked eye, both fleas and some mites are too small for most people to detect.”
Allergies can develop to many things like certain ingredients in dog foods, pollen, dust mites, molds, or grass. Determining the exact allergy trigger can take some trial and error. If you suspect allergies are behind your dog’s excessive licking and chewing, consult your veterinarian.
Risks of Excessive Licking
Excessive licking can lead to some health risks for dogs. The main concerns with dogs who lick excessively are skin infections and open wounds.
A dog’s saliva contains bacteria and yeast. When a dog licks an area repeatedly, the constant moisture can allow yeast and bacteria to multiply, leading to infections of the skin like hot spots or pyoderma according to veterinarians (Source). These infections cause inflammation, redness, itching, and discomfort.
Excessive licking can also cause sores or wounds on the skin’s surface. As the skin gets irritated, the repeated trauma of licking can break it down leading to an open sore or lesion. These provide an entry point for bacteria to infect the wound (Source).
Therefore, it’s important to stop excessive licking behaviors to prevent complications. Seek veterinary care if signs of skin infection or wounds develop.
When to See the Vet
If your dog’s licking seems excessive or obsessive, it’s important to schedule a veterinary exam. Constant licking and chewing can lead to raw, irritated skin and open wounds prone to infection. It may also be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Some signs that warrant a veterinary visit include:
- Sudden increase in licking behavior
- Licking specific spots raw or bald
- Licking that leads to open sores or bleeding
- Licking combined with lethargy or appetite changes
- Anal gland issues like scooting or licking under the tail
During the exam, the vet will check for skin irritation, parasites, allergies, anxiety, pain, and other problems. They may recommend blood work, skin scrapings, or other tests. Getting to the root cause is key for finding the right treatment approach.
If excessive licking stems from boredom, stress, or a habit, the vet can provide training tips or anxiety medication. But health issues like infections require medication or other therapy. Don’t hesitate to call the vet if licking seems problematic.
Dietary Changes
Making adjustments to your dog’s diet can help reduce excessive licking and chewing. Certain nutrients and supplements support skin and coat health from the inside out.
Adding omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids like fish oil or flaxseed oil to your dog’s food can help reduce skin irritation and inflammation that may be causing them to lick excessively. Fatty acids support healthy skin and provide relief for dry, itchy skin (1).
Probiotics can also help improve skin health by balancing your dog’s gut flora and reducing allergic reactions. Some studies have found probiotic supplements reduce licking, chewing, and scratching in dogs with allergies (2).
It’s best to consult your veterinarian before making any major dietary changes for your dog. They can recommend the right dosages and types of supplements tailored to your dog’s needs.
Sources:
(1) https://www.veterinarians.org/dog-licking-paws/
(2) https://yumwoof.com/blogs/nutrition/dog-licking-paws-use-this-remedy-before-it-gets-worse
Topical Remedies
There are several natural topical remedies that can be applied directly to your dog’s skin to help stop excessive licking and chewing. These remedies work by creating a barrier on the skin, providing relief from inflammation and irritation, deterring licking due to the taste, and promoting healing.
Coconut oil is a versatile home remedy that can help soothe dry, irritated skin while also deterring licking due to its taste. Apply a small amount of extra virgin coconut oil directly to irritated areas a few times per day. The fatty acids in coconut oil have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.[1]
Aloe vera gel is another excellent option for reducing inflammation and healing the skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Gently rub pure aloe vera gel onto areas of concern 1-2 times per day. It helps moisturize dry skin while creating a bitter taste.[2]
Apple cider vinegar can be diluted with water and applied to the skin with a cloth or cotton ball. Many dogs dislike the sour taste. It also helps restore a healthy pH balance to the skin and has antibacterial properties to prevent infection.[3]
Essential Oils
Certain essential oils can help soothe and heal irritated skin that dogs are excessively licking. Always use properly diluted oils that are safe for dogs. Some good options are:
- Lavender oil – Has calming and soothing properties that can reduce skin irritation and inflammation caused by licking (source).
- Tea tree oil – Has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing abilities to treat hot spots and promote healing (source).
- Citronella oil – Its strong scent can act as a repellent to deter licking (source).
Always monitor your dog closely when using essential oils. Stop use if irritation develops.
Bitter Sprays
One common approach to deter dogs from licking is to apply a bitter taste to the area. Commercial bitter sprays like Grannick’s Bitter Apple (https://www.amazon.com/Grannicks-Bitter-Apple-Taste-Deterrent/dp/B001CCNG88) create an unpleasant bitter taste to discourage licking and chewing. According to Petco, Grannick’s Bitter Apple is a “powerful taste deterrent for dogs [that] discourages fur biting, hair chewing and hot spots.” (https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/grannicks-bitter-apple)
These sprays can be applied directly to the skin, fur, bandages, or other surfaces. The bitter taste helps deter dogs from excessive licking by creating an unpleasant sensation when they taste the sprayed area. Pet owners should avoid getting bitter sprays into the eyes. Reapplication may be needed periodically as the spray wears off.
While bitter sprays provide a temporary deterrent, they do not address the underlying cause of excessive licking. But they can provide immediate relief in the short-term while pet owners address other factors contributing to the behavior.
Soothing Baths
One natural remedy for dogs that lick and chew excessively is to give them soothing baths. Certain ingredients like oatmeal and baking soda have properties that can help calm irritated skin and provide relief.
An oatmeal bath is a gentle way to soothe minor itches and irritation. Oatmeal contains compounds that coat the skin to protect it and help restore moisture. To make an oatmeal bath, grind 1-2 cups of oatmeal into a fine powder and mix with warm water. Make sure the oatmeal is fully dissolved before bathing your dog. Let your dog soak for 5-10 minutes while gently massaging the oatmeal into their skin.
Baths with baking soda can also help calm skin irritation. Baking soda has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda into warm bath water and bathe your dog as usual. The baking soda will soothe their skin and help remove dirt and debris.
These soothing bath remedies use ingredients you likely already have at home. They provide temporary relief without harsh chemicals. However, if your dog’s licking and chewing persists, see your vet to address the underlying cause.
Stress Relief
Excessive licking can sometimes be caused by boredom, anxiety, or stress. Giving your dog more exercise and enrichment activities is a great way to relieve stress and curb obsessive licking behaviors.
Make sure your dog gets at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day like walking, playing fetch, or going for a swim. This will help your dog burn off excess energy that may lead to anxious behaviors like licking (source).
Additionally, give your dog toys and puzzles that challenge their mind and stimulate natural foraging behaviors. Rotating different types of toys will help keep your dog engaged and entertained throughout the day (source).
Consider enrolling your dog in obedience training or agility classes. This provides mental stimulation and helps strengthen the human-canine bond. A tired, fulfilled dog is less likely to cope with stress by obsessive licking.
When to Seek Help
If your dog’s licking becomes obsessive or is causing wounds and irritation, it’s important to seek help from your veterinarian. Excessive licking can be a sign of underlying medical issues like allergies, anxiety, parasites or infection. Your vet can run tests to try to determine the cause of the behavior.
Treatment from your vet may include:
- Allergy testing and allergy shots
- Antibiotics or antifungal medication
- Anti-anxiety medication
- A prescription antipruritic shampoo
- A steroidal topical spray or oral medication
- A protective collar to prevent licking
Getting professional veterinary care can help manage excessive licking, prevent further irritation, and improve your dog’s quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if your dog’s licking becomes problematic. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most cases of obsessive licking can be resolved.