Understanding Why Dogs Lick Blankets
If you've ever caught your dog licking a blanket or bed cover, you're not alone. This behavior is common among dogs and can have several causes—some harmless, others signaling a deeper issue. Let's explore why dogs are drawn to licking fabrics and what you can do about it.
Common Reasons Dogs Lick Blankets
- Comfort and Self-Soothing: Many dogs use licking as a way to calm themselves, especially when they're anxious or stressed. This habit often starts in puppyhood—nursing from their mother is comforting, and the repetitive motion of licking mimics that soothing feeling. When faced with stress, boredom, or loneliness, some dogs turn to blanket licking for relief.
- Attraction to Scent or Taste: With their powerful noses, dogs are naturally curious about smells. Blankets can carry traces of food, sweat, or their owner's scent—making them irresistible. Some dogs are especially drawn to bedding that smells like their favorite person, which helps them feel secure when alone.
- Boredom or Habit: Without enough mental stimulation or exercise, dogs may develop repetitive behaviors like licking blankets simply to pass the time. If your dog doesn't get regular playtime or new experiences, licking can become a default activity.
- Anxiety or Stress: Changes in the environment—like moving homes, new people or pets, loud noises—or being separated from their owner can trigger anxiety-driven licking. You'll often notice this behavior increase during times of upheaval.
- Medical Causes: Sometimes excessive licking points to an underlying health problem. Gastrointestinal discomfort (like nausea), dental pain, allergies, infections, skin conditions, dietary deficiencies—or even cognitive dysfunction in older dogs—can all lead to repeated fabric licking as your dog tries to soothe themselves.
- Seeking Attention: Dogs are quick learners; if they notice that licking blankets gets your attention (even if it's negative), they might repeat the behavior just for engagement.
How To Address Blanket Licking
- Provide Adequate Stimulation: Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental challenges through toys and puzzles. A tired dog is less likely to develop unwanted habits.
- Assess Diet and Health: Ensure your dog's diet meets all nutritional needs. If persistent licking comes with other symptoms (vomiting, appetite loss, drooling), consult your veterinarian.
- Maintain Hygiene: Wash bedding regularly to remove tempting scents and food residues that might attract your dog.
- Use Deterrents: Pet-safe bitter sprays can make blankets less appealing if training hasn't worked yet.
- Redirect and Train: Teach alternative behaviors using positive reinforcement. Redirect your dog's attention with toys and reward them for engaging appropriately; commands like "leave it" can help discourage blanket licking.
- Create a Calm Environment: For anxious dogs, provide a predictable routine and safe retreat spots (like a crate). Calming music or comfort toys can also help reduce stress-driven behaviors.
- Address Medical Causes: Watch for signs of discomfort such as drooling or changes in appetite. Sudden or excessive licking—especially in older pets—should prompt a vet visit.
- Avoid Unintentional Reinforcement: Don't give extra attention while your dog licks the blanket; instead reward them when they're calm or playing with appropriate toys.
When To Seek Professional Help
If the blanket-licking becomes obsessive or is paired with other distress signals (like changes in appetite or energy level), reach out to your veterinarian. Persistent behavioral issues may benefit from consulting a professional dog behaviorist who can tailor strategies for your pet's unique needs.
The Takeaway
Licking blankets is usually a sign that your dog is seeking comfort—or reacting to something missing from their daily routine. Most cases respond well to increased stimulation and gentle training. However, always keep an eye on sudden changes in behavior; sometimes these habits point toward physical discomfort that needs medical attention.
