How to Stop a Dog from Licking Itself

Licking, biting, slurping, sucking – frustrating and annoying, dogs will continue to scratch at an itch until they bleed if you don’t stop them. But why do they do it, and how can you stop their relentless attack? The initial treatment is the same, but dogs lick themselves for various reasons. Depending on what’s causing the licking, the solution will vary.

Why Licking Can Be Harmful

First, licking a spot to the point of rawness is bad for several reasons. It can lead to an acral lick granuloma – thickened, raw, rubbery skin that opens the door for infection and is difficult to treat. Treatment isn’t usually as simple as applying antibiotic ointment for a few days. Typically, granuloma treatment involves a topical ointment that not only contains antibiotics but also something to relieve the itch or pain, so the dog is more likely to ignore it. If the licking continues, unpleasant-tasting products like bitter orange may be used to repel the dog. If that doesn’t work, an Elizabethan collar or Buster collar must be worn to prevent the dog from reaching the spot. If the topical ointment doesn’t clear up the infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. The course of treatment will depend on the underlying cause.

Surgical Site Licking

One of the most common or recognizable causes of licking is a surgical site. As the fur grows back and the healing process causes the site to itch, licking and chewing may start. It’s essential to stop this behavior quickly, as it can lead to a granuloma, open up the incision, or cause the dog’s saliva to break down the sutures.

The easiest treatment is usually an Elizabethan collar to physically block the dog’s ability to get at the surgical site, or a bitter apple repellent.

Note: Avoid putting any ointment or bitter-tasting repellents on the incision, as these can cause irritation and may even break down sutures.

Allergies, Mites, Bites, and Itches

A common reason for licking is itching. A veterinarian will examine the dog thoroughly to identify the cause of the itch and determine a course of treatment that not only addresses the granuloma but also stops the licking. Often, allergies are to blame—whether from fleabites, environmental factors, or a food allergy. The vet will likely prescribe antihistamines in conjunction with antibiotics, and once the allergy is under control, the licking should stop.

Stress or Boredom Licking

For many dogs, licking is a way to relieve stress or boredom. Stress and boredom licking typically happen when the owner is away, so owners may not notice the problem until the dog has worn through the fur and reached the skin. By the time it’s noticed, there are two issues to address: the raw lick spot and the cause of the licking.

Initial treatment is the same for boredom or stress licking as for other types of granulomas. For stress-related licking, identifying the cause of the stress and changing the environment is the first step. In more severe cases, “puppy Prozac” may be necessary.

Exercise is crucial for both dealing with boredom and managing stress. Often, high-energy dogs that aren’t exercised enough will express their frustration through self-mutilation. Other ways to alleviate stress and boredom include leaving the dog with something to chew on or occupy their time, such as a Kong® stuffed with peanut butter and biscuits or a kibble ball. Trainers and animal behaviorists can be excellent resources for handling these problems.

Bumps, Lumps, Warts, and Scars

Overenthusiastic licking can also be caused by physical issues such as a poorly healed injury or a new lump, either on or under the skin. If there’s only one localized area where the dog focuses its attention, there’s a strong likelihood that something is irritating that spot.

This type of compulsive licking should be treated like any other granuloma with topical ointments and antibiotics, if necessary. Blocking access to the spot with an Elizabethan collar will help the spot heal more quickly. Once the granuloma has cleared up, dissuading the licking behavior may be effective. In some cases, surgically removing a lump or wart that’s causing the irritation may be necessary.

Old, poorly healed injuries are a bit more complicated. X-rays can reveal any arthritis or calcium deposits in the area. These can be treated with painkillers, acupuncture, or natural remedies.

How Best to Stop a Dog from Licking Itself?

The best way to stop a dog from licking itself is to be aware of their behaviors and catch the problem before it becomes serious or requires a visit to the vet.

Daily brushing, especially for long-haired or thick-coated breeds, helps identify lick spots before they develop into granulomas. The treatment can be as simple as blocking the dog from accessing that spot for a few days. For spots on the body, consider putting the dog in a t-shirt instead of an Elizabethan collar, as many dogs tolerate a shirt better than the collar. As long as the spot isn’t open, raw, or over a suture site, bitter-tasting repellents work well if you’re able to continue applying them as needed. Continue the treatment until the area is healed and the dog no longer seems inclined to lick or chew.

If you suspect fleas or mites, use a product like Revolution™ to eliminate the pests within 24 hours. If the licking stops, continue the monthly Revolution™ treatment to prevent the problem from recurring.

Prevention is always better than treatment in cases of compulsive licking. Keep your dog happy, healthy, free of hitchhiking critters, and well-exercised so that the slurping, sucking, and chewing noises are never heard in your home!