Why Does My Dog Lick Everything? [Normal vs. Problematic Behavior]

Dogs are not capable of human speech, but they still find ways to communicate how they feel. Your dog will use body language to let you know when it is hungry, needs to use the restroom, or is seeking your attention. If you find your dog licking everything excessively suddenly, it may indicate something they can't communicate with words.

 

 

Why Do Dogs Lick Everything?

Dogs begin licking everything from the moment they are born and well into their late stages of life. While you rest on your couch and observe your dog, you might notice it lick itself first before other different items around the house. Here are a few reasons why dogs lick each thing they might encounter:

• Ease Behaviors
• Explore Tastes
• Express Affection
• Communicate Wants and Needs

 

 

Is It Common for My Dog to Lick Things?

Yes, it is common for canines, regardless of dog breed, size, and age, to lick things since it's a part of a dog's behavior completely. The dog's tongue is an important muscle that helps it drink water, eat, and regulate body heat. Although it contains fewer taste buds than a person's tongue, they still use it to taste things. Dogs will rely on their strong sense of smell over licking things, but they still rely on all of their senses to get a feel about the world around them.

 

 

Things Dogs Should Avoid Licking

Canines should never excessively lick or eat chocolate, onions, chives, garlic, some fruits and vegetables, dairy, and other foods. Eating these foods can lead to unwanted side effects such as nausea, upset stomach, and diarrhea. If you have any important electrical equipment, keep it somewhere your dog cannot reach so they won't end up tempted to lick or chew on cables.

 

Some popular house plants are also considered mildly toxic to pets, including dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has a list of toxic plants for dogs and a contact number for their Animal Poison Control Center. If you believe your dog licked something harmful, contact your local animal hospital for further veterinary assistance.

 

Why Is My Dog Licking So Much?

Excessive licking behavior is common in all dogs for different reasons. Most of the time, it is not something dog owners should worry about. Here are some common reasons for your dog's licking behavior:

 

 

Soothe Skin

Dogs may lick their skin to help soothe itchy dog skin or irritations. Different types of infection can cause symptoms that make a dog's skin feel uncomfortable. Dog licks provide comfort to those affected areas.

 

 

Alleviate Boredom

Puppies love playtime, and sometimes they can start licking things to help keep themselves busy. This type of behavior can continue as dogs mature. Save your dog from boredom by providing with chew toys.

 

 

Self-Grooming

Dogs do not have brush-like tongues like cats, but they still use their tongues to groom themselves through constant licking. They lick their coats to help spread healthy skin oils and remove any dirt or debris.

 

 

Attention-Seeking

Dogs can bark if they want your attention, but they can also seek your attention by licking your feet or shoes.

 

 

Ease Anxiety

Certain loud noises and other factors can make your dog feel nervous and trigger compulsive behaviors. Licking is one of the things that can soothe your dog's anxiety. They might have a favorite toy that they chew or lick to feel tranquil.

 

 

Medical Conditions

When your dog feels nauseous, it might lick things to remove any bad tastes from its mouth. If your dog has issues within its mouth, it may lick things to try to ease the pain. It may also be a sign of canine cognitive dysfunction, which is common in older dogs.

 

 

Express Love

Dogs lick things and their owners to communicate their affection for them. It is one of their repetitive behaviors that portray acknowledgment and gratitude.

 

 

Feeding Time

One of the signs that your dog is hungry is when it begins to lick, bark, or bite its bag of food. You can tell your dog enjoyed its food if you see it lick its bowl clean after it finishes its food.

 

 

Exploring Surroundings

What do all dogs do when they are curious about something? They rely on their senses such as sight, smell, sound, and even taste. Dogs lick their owners after brisk walks because they like the taste of salt from sweat.

 

 

Treat Wounds

Wounds can be painful for dogs. They lick their wounds instinctively and try to ease the discomfort from the wound. Dog saliva does contain antibacterial properties, but it is best if you apply first aid treatment to your dog or seek further assistance from a veterinarian.

 

How Do I Get My Dog To Stop Licking Everything?

There are several ways to address some of the common reasons why dogs try to lick everything. Some of these methods can be completed at home and involve remedies people can easily obtain from their pantry or local grocery store.

 

• Cooking Oils: If your pup licks itself too much due to itchy or dry skin, common household ingredients like coconut oil and olive oil can help soothe irritated skin. You can apply this homemade topical weekly or put them in their food until you see your dog's irritated skin get better.
• Lemon Juice: Some lemon wedges left in warm water for a few hours can help soothe irritation on your dog's coat. This will promote a healthy coat while encouraging your dog to lick the healing area less.
• Play Dress Up: All dogs look amazing wearing outfits, regardless of their size or breed. If your dog cannot stop licking its body, get an old shirt for it to wear. Pet stores carry dog-friendly clothing too!
• Increased Stimulation: If your dog or puppy is licking things out of boredom, then provide it with some amusement by getting it some toys. You can play fetch with your pet or take it on a walk to help meet its daily exercise needs.
• Training: Excessive licking can be prevented by taking the time to train your dog. If they lick something, a simple command such as "stop" should be sufficient to get your pup to stop. Use positive reinforcement training methods to get your dog to obey your commands.
• Vet Visits: If your pup licks itself excessively to help ease discomfort, it might best seek further diagnosis from a veterinarian. The veterinarian can also check for any skin conditions or neurological concerns.

 

CBD Products

CBD-infused products for dogs are rising in popularity in the pet community. If your dog is licking anything in sight out of anxiety or because it is experiencing physical discomfort, premium quality CBD for dogs can help alleviate those concerns. Add the appropriate dosage amount to your dog's treats, food, or water.

 

Some people also massage CBD oil in the area of discomfort. CBD is a naturally occurring compound from hemp plants that provides a list of benefits. When looking for CBD products, HolistaPet is one of the top brands. CBD products from HolistaPet are all-natural and made without any harmful byproducts.

 

One of the great things about our CBD dog treats and other CBD products, is that they are federally legal, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. A guideline from the bill requires CBD products to contain less than 0.3% of THC. This means CBD products for dogs are non-intoxicating and non-toxic as well. CBD works by supporting a dog's endocannabinoid system to provide the following positive effects:

 

• Ease Nervousness
• Promote Calmness
• Promote Natural Digestion and Sleep
• Soothe Physical Discomfort
• Nourish Skin

 

 

When Should I Be Concerned About a Dog Licking Everything?

Excessive licking may cause concern if there is some pain or a behavioral issue causing it. Whatever the cause is, it is recommended to seek medical advice from a vet. Here are brief examples of when a pet owner should be concerned about their dog licking everything:

 

• Bleeding: Your dog will lick a wound on instinct but licking the wounds too much should be prevented, or it might make it worse. Licking the wound too much can slow down the healing and cause infection or irritate the skin. Have a vet treat the wound and place an Elizabethan collar on your pup to prevent them from licking the wound again.
• Infections: If your pooch cannot stop licking or biting at its paws, it might be due to a yeast infection. It is best to wrap on a medical bandage to keep it from licking that area further.

 

Final Thoughts

Dogs are the perfect companions for families. They help guard us and provide an endless amount of love. They can't communicate with words, so pet owners need to be well-informed about what behavior is normal and what could be cause for concern. Sometimes dogs may lick everything, which is normal behavior, but it is important to know when it can be signaling a problem. One of the best ways to keep your dog active and happy is through CBD Products from HolistaPet!