If you've noticed your dog keeps swallowing and licking their lips frequently, you might be wondering whether this behavior is normal or a sign of something more serious. While occasional lip-licking is natural for dogs, persistent or excessive episodes often signal underlying health issues that require attention.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various causes of frequent lip-licking and swallowing in dogs, help you identify when to be concerned, and explain when it's time to seek veterinary care.
Common Causes of Excessive Lip-Licking and Swallowing
Stress and Anxiety
Dogs often lick their lips and swallow repeatedly when experiencing anxiety or stress. This behavior serves as a calming signal and can occur during thunderstorms, when meeting new people, or during changes in their environment. Other anxiety signs might include panting, pacing, or hiding.
Nausea and Digestive Issues
Gastrointestinal problems frequently trigger lip-licking and excessive swallowing. Dogs may exhibit these behaviors when feeling nauseous due to motion sickness, eating something disagreeable, or dealing with more serious digestive conditions.
Dental Problems and Oral Pain
Dental disease, tooth abscesses, or oral injuries can cause increased salivation and frequent swallowing. Watch for additional signs like bad breath, reluctance to eat hard food, or pawing at the mouth.
Medical Conditions That Cause Excessive Swallowing
Foreign Objects and Obstructions
Sometimes dogs may swallow and lick their lips repeatedly if something is stuck in their throat or mouth. This could be anything from a small toy to a piece of bone, and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Acid Reflux and Esophagitis
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from acid reflux, leading to increased swallowing and lip-licking. This condition may be accompanied by reduced appetite and visible discomfort, especially after meals.
When to Be Concerned
While occasional lip-licking is normal, you should contact your veterinarian if you notice:
- Persistent lip-licking and swallowing lasting more than a few hours
- Additional symptoms like vomiting or lethargy
- Changes in eating or drinking habits
- Signs of pain or distress
- Pawing at the mouth or face
Prevention and Management
To help prevent issues that cause excessive swallowing and lip-licking:
- Maintain regular dental check-ups and cleaning
- Monitor your dog's chewing habits and toy safety
- Keep potentially harmful substances out of reach
- Address anxiety triggers promptly
- Maintain a consistent feeding schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog keep licking its lips and swallowing frequently?
Dogs may lick their lips and swallow frequently due to various reasons including anxiety, nausea, dental problems, foreign objects in the mouth or throat, or acid reflux. The specific cause can usually be determined by observing additional symptoms and consulting with a veterinarian.
Can anxiety cause a dog to lick its lips and swallow excessively?
Yes, anxiety is a common cause of excessive lip-licking and swallowing in dogs. This behavior serves as a calming signal and often occurs during stressful situations like thunderstorms, veterinary visits, or when encountering unfamiliar people or environments.
What health problems can make a dog lick its lips and swallow a lot?
Several health issues can cause these symptoms, including dental disease, gastrointestinal problems, acid reflux, nausea, oral injuries, and foreign body obstructions. Some systemic diseases may also present with these symptoms.
How can I tell if my dog's lip-licking is due to a foreign object or dental pain?
Look for additional signs like pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating, bad breath, or visible discomfort. With foreign objects, the behavior usually starts suddenly, while dental pain typically develops gradually and may be accompanied by red gums or visible tartar.
When should I take my dog to the vet for persistent lip-licking and swallowing?
Seek veterinary care if the behavior persists for more than a few hours, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or changes in eating habits. Immediate attention is needed if you suspect a foreign object or if your dog shows signs of severe distress.
Conclusion
While a dog's occasional lip-licking and swallowing is normal, persistent behavior warrants attention. By understanding the various causes and knowing when to seek veterinary care, you can ensure your dog receives proper treatment when needed. Always consult with your veterinarian if you're uncertain about your pet's symptoms or behavior changes.
