Excessive Licking in Dogs: Discover Why and How to Help

It’s always lovely to be welcomed at the door with a wagging tail and kiss after your long absence from the house. Dogs always seem ready with a kiss even if you haven’t left the house in a week. But unfortunately, some dogs can take it a bit too far, and excessive licking in dogs can cause issues.

Two licks on the face are no big deal, but when they start to go to town, it can be unhygienic, annoying, and disgusting. If you have allergies to canine saliva, it can also put a grinch on the friendship.

So, how do you stop your dog from doing something that appears so natural to them? We have outlined easy steps that will help you to get rid of this problem.

Why Is My Dog Licking?

Before solving this problem, it’s essential to understand why dogs lick. There are several reasons why they do so and even a few more reasons why they may be going overboard.

First, licking is instructed to them as a sign of love at a young age by their mothers. Female dogs lick their newborn puppies to get them breathing. They continue to do so to show affection and to clean themselves. Your dogs do this to show how much they love you.

Besides that most basic intuition, dogs can also lick for numerous other reasons. For example, they may do so because you taste pleasing. They may be bored, or it may be because of anxiety in more complex cases.

Some of the reasons are:

• To Ask For Food
• As a Calming Signal
• To Clean Themselves
• As a Compulsive Behavior
• Because He Loves You
• Because You Taste Good

Steps to Stop Your Dog from Licking

1. Say No to Your Dog

Some dogs slowly grab things, so they might not take your cue when you ignore them. Also, they don’t care that you are ignoring them and take it as a sign to keep going.

If this is the case, you may have to take things seriously and give them a solid “NO.” Don’t forget to give treats or praise when they do a good job!

2. Ignore Your Dog

One of the easiest methods to get your puppy to lay off with the licking is to ignore it. Unless you get kisses when you first walk through the door, your dog may be trying to get your lookout.

They will eventually stop if you ignore the request. Once they do, ensure that you show them honor. Letting them understand a single lick will suffice and some patience will earn them your praise and treats; they will likely stick with the plan.

3. Change Your Lotion or Soap

If you are not a sweating person, but even your pup likes the taste of your skin, it could be due to your soap and lotion. Changing it up could help.

Try a distinct smell or element list. It may get them to leave you. It is also very true if you use many all-natural and holistic products as they are more likely to smell like tasty food.

4. Try Citrus

Dogs are not fond of anything bitter and typically leave it alone. You can also try bitter sprays in a more desperate attempt to get your puppy to stop licking you. These products are created to keep your pet from chewing on furniture and other items, but they are usually all-natural and harmless to your skin. If you see your dog going after one location, you can try spraying some bitter spray on your skin in that area.

5. DAP (Dog-Appeasing Pheromones)

Are you wondering what DAP is? It is Dog-Appeasing Pheromones. Unfortunately, your dog may be licking you too much because of anxiety or stress.

If that is the case, you must get to the issue’s root. It may be they need more exercise, or in more severe cases, it could be separation anxiety that has them frequently licking to comfort themselves.

If you find the latter is the issue, using a DAP can help calm them down and ease their kisses. You should consult your vet before using any treats or calming spray.

Moreover, they can also help you get to the root of the problem. For example, your pet may have some health problems, which is the cause of their anxiety.

6. Divert Your Dog’s Attention

Another reason for excess licking could be the need for something to do with their mouth. Dogs use their mouth in all their actions, from eating to playtime to affection. Giving them a bone, chew toy, or even something to eat can curb their need to lick.

If this is the case, find them a sustainable chew toy that will last. Moreover, try giving some other puzzles or games. Too much licking action can indicate that mental stimulation is lacking.

7. Cover Cuts and Wounds

Another reason your pet may be licking you without stopping is because you have a cut or wound. Dogs instinctively lick injuries to heal them, and because they love you, they want to heal any injury they sense you have.

Covering your cuts and injuries with a bandage will not only keep them from licking the area but give the misconception that it is healed.

Remember, although dog saliva has some healing properties, it can do more harm than good. There is just as much bacteria as healing effects in their mouth, and licking it can cause the cut to reopen.

8. Give Your Dog Exercise

Mental motivation may not be the only thing your dog is lacking. Constant licking can also indicate boredom and pent-up energy. Bringing your dog outside for some exercise is a wonderful way to tire them out and relieve the build-up energy.

Even if you bring your dog for a regular walk, they may need extra playtime. You can add another walk to the daily routine or add some outdoor fun like tug of war or fetch.

Over-the-top licking does not have to be something you take with your dog. However, by following these easy steps, you can eliminate this problem. Again, consistency, replay, and positive support are essential.

You may have to try several of these steps before switching to the right one, but rewarding them for doing a good job is always an advantage. We hope these steps will help in eradicating licking problems in your pet.