Are Certain Dog Breeds More Prone to Licking?
Licking is a natural canine behavior, but excessive or frequent licking, especially of objects like blankets or bed covers, can indicate underlying causes related to breed tendencies. Understanding the behavioral motivations and breed predispositions can help dog owners manage and address licking habits effectively.
Why Dogs Lick
Dogs may lick for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:
- Comfort and self-soothing: Licking may help dogs regulate their emotions during stressful moments or when they feel anxious. The repetitive action is calming and can remind them of early life nursing behavior.
- Sensory attraction: Dogs are drawn to blankets or beds that smell like their owners or retain traces of food, sweat, or other appealing scents.
- Boredom or habitual behavior: Dogs with insufficient stimulation may resort to licking out of sheer habit or to self-entertain.
- Stress and anxiety: Changes in the environment or routine, separation anxiety, or loud noises can lead to compulsive licking.
- Medical issues: Digestive upset, dental pain, skin irritation, or allergies might trigger licking as dogs try to alleviate discomfort.
- Attention-seeking: If licking results in positive or any attention, dogs might learn to repeat the behavior for interaction.
Dog Breeds Prone to Licking
Though all dogs lick to some extent, certain breeds are more predisposed to persistent licking behaviors:
- Labrador Retrievers: Friendly and affectionate, Labs often use licking to show love and connect emotionally with owners.
- Golden Retrievers: Known for their social and caring nature, they express a lot of emotion through licking, especially when anxious.
- Chihuahuas: Sensitive and tightly bonded to their humans, Chihuahuas may lick for attention and reassurance.
- Dachshunds: Licking can stem from boredom or stress due to their high-energy personalities.
- Poodles (especially Miniature and Toy): Intelligent and emotional, they use licking to communicate stress and affection.
- Border Collies: This highly energetic herding breed craves stimulation. When under-exercised, licking can become a compulsive outlet.
- Shih Tzus and Pugs: Companion breeds such as these may use licking to bond or solicit attention consistently.
Managing Blanket or Fabric Licking
If your dog frequently licks fabric surfaces like blankets or bedspreads, consider implementing these strategies:
- Enhance mental and physical stimulation: Provide varied toys, puzzle feeders, daily walks, and interactive play to keep your dog engaged.
- Clean fabrics frequently: Reduce scent cues that may trigger licking by regularly washing blankets and bedding.
- Apply safe deterrents: Pet-safe bitter sprays can make items less appealing to lick without causing harm.
- Redirect behavior: If your dog initiates licking, redirect them to a chew toy or engage them in an alternative activity and reward the new behavior.
- Create a calming environment: For anxiety-based licking, provide stability with routines, safe spaces, and calming aids like soothing music or anxiety jackets.
- Evaluate for medical causes: Watch for signs such as vomiting, loss of appetite, or drooling. Seek veterinary advice if symptoms accompany licking.
- Avoid reinforcing the habit: Refrain from providing excessive attention during licking. Reward peaceful or alternative behaviors instead.
When to Seek Help
Contact a vet or certified behaviorist if your dog’s licking becomes excessive, obsessive, or changes suddenly. This can signal emotional distress or a health concern such as gastrointestinal upset or neurological issues in older dogs.
Conclusion
While licking is a normal behavior among dogs, some breeds are more prone to lick due to their sensitivity, intelligence, activity levels, or affectionate nature. Identifying the cause—whether behavioral or medical—and responding with the right strategies can help maintain your dog’s well-being and improve their behavior.
