Dog Constantly Licking Lips, but Why?
If your dog keeps licking their lips, you might think they are hungry or have eaten something really good! However, dogs communicate via body language in many ways – licking their lips is just one of them. When your four-legged best friend is smacking their chops excessively, it’s only natural to wonder what this means and what they are trying to tell you. To answer this question, it is necessary to look at the context. You should observe when, how, and what prompts your dog to do this. Every dog is different but below we will explore the reasons why dogs lick their lips. We’ll also look at when it should be a cause of concern.
Why won’t my dog stop licking his lips?
Dogs can lick their lips for many reasons, including the obvious desire for a tasty treat or to remove irritants such as food particles or sand. Continuous lip licking though, indicates more of a behavioural or medical issue.
Does my dog licking their lips indicate a medical issue?
As well as for many other reasons, dogs can lick their lips due to physical conditions. These include nausea, mouth or dental problems, Gastroesophageal reflux, intestinal obstruction, pancreatitis, or sudden changes to their diet. In conjunction with other symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, excessive lip licking could indicate the onset of a condition such as liver or kidney disease or Addison’s disease. If your dog is showing changes in behaviour, it is always a good idea to make a prompt appointment with their veterinary practice, to rule out a serious medical problem.
Dogs licking their lips can be a cause of puzzlement for owners
Do dogs lick their lips for behavioural reasons?
Dogs lick their lips for all sorts of different reasons, but lip-licking is also widely used as an appeasing or submissive gesture. This can be to defuse a potentially tense situation or make greetings more relaxed and friendly. This behaviour can be demonstrated with both other dogs and people. For example, if a dog is getting too boisterous, another might use lip-licking and other calming signals. This is their way of asking the other pooch to calm down.
The University of Bristol’s Veterinary School offers the following advice about interpreting the behaviour signs: “Dogs often lick their lips when given a treat, but lip-licking is also shown when a dog feels uncertain, anxious or fearful.”
Dog licking lips non stop
If you have an old dog licking their lips constantly, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that may need attention.
Dental Issues – Dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, or oral injuries can cause discomfort, leading to your dog constantly licking their lips. Look inside your dog’s mouth for any signs of redness, swelling, or broken teeth. If you notice anything abnormal, consult your veterinarian.
Signs of Stress – Dogs may lick their lips excessively when they are anxious or stressed. Changes in their environment, routine, or household dynamics could trigger anxiety. Provide a comfortable and familiar environment for your dog and consider techniques to reduce stress such as providing a quiet space, using calming pheromones, or behavioural training.
Nausea or Digestive Issues Problems – Lip licking can sometimes be a sign of nausea or digestive problems in dogs. Watch for other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, or changes in stools. If you suspect digestive issues, consult your vet for further evaluation.
Any Signs of Pain or Discomfort – Dogs may lick their lips as a response to pain or discomfort elsewhere in their body. Check for any signs of limping, stiffness, or sensitivity to touch. Arthritis or other joint problems could be causing discomfort, which may manifest as constant lip licking.
In certain circumstances, irritants such as sand may cause your dog to lick their lips
If your dog’s lip licking persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Your vet can conduct a thorough examination, run tests if necessary, and provide appropriate medical intervention.
In conclusion, understanding why dogs lick their lips is essential to understand their behaviour and ensure their well-being. While lip licking can sometimes be harmless, it can also signal underlying medical or behavioural issues that require attention. Whether it’s due to dental problems, stress, nausea, or pain, excessive lip licking should prompt further investigation, ideally with a veterinarian’s guidance. By monitoring their dog’s behaviours and seeking appropriate care, dog owners can ensure their beloved companions receive the necessary support and treatment.
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Please note: Barking Mad, the UK’s leading home dog boarding provider, assumes no liability for the content of this page. This advice is only intended as a guide. Please contact your local veterinary practice for advice or treatment immediately if you are worried about your pet’s health – even if they are closed, they will always have an out of hours service available.
