Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick Surfaces?
Dogs have a natural instinct to lick. They may lick their own body as a way of grooming, or they may lick your hand as a sign of affection. When it comes to licking surfaces, some dogs do it more than others. If your dog is licking the floor occasionally, it is probably nothing to worry about.
However, if your dog is licking the floor excessively, it could be a sign of anxiety or stress. Excessive licking can also be a sign of boredom or lack of mental stimulation. If your dog is exhibiting other signs of anxiety or stress, such as pacing or barking, you should take them to the vet to rule out any underlying health problems.
Why Is My Dog Licking the Floor?
Why is my dog licking the floor? It could be for one of the following reasons.
Food or Liquid
If you notice your dog licking the floor in the areas where food is usually kept or handled, then they might just be looking for a snack. Sometimes dogs lick the floor because they are trying to get to a food or liquid that has been spilled. If you think this is the case, try cleaning up any spills immediately and see if your dog’s licking behavior decreases.
Upset Stomach
Another common reason for why dogs lick the floor is an upset stomach. If your dog is licking the floor and appears to be uncomfortable, it might be because they are nauseous or have an upset stomach. Dogs will often lick surfaces when they are feeling sick to try and soothe their stomach. If your dog is licking the floor excessively and also has other symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, then you should take them to the vet right away.
Anxiety
Dogs can also lick surfaces as a way of coping with anxiety. If your dog licks the floor when you leave them alone or during other times of stress, then they may be experiencing anxiety or separation anxiety. In this case, you should work with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist to help your dog manage their anxiety and floor licking behavior.
Normal Behavior
Sometimes, dogs just lick surfaces because they like the taste or texture. While this may seem strange to us, it is actually a normal behavior for dogs. If you think your dog is licking the floor just because they enjoy it, then there is no need to worry. Just make sure that they are not ingesting any harmful chemicals or cleaners that might be on the floor, and that they aren’t doing it obsessively.
Excessive Licking of Surfaces (ELS)
Excessive licking of surfaces is defined as performing the licking behavior more often than what is considered normal or socially acceptable. The licking may be done in one area or spread out over different surfaces. While it is not known why some dogs develop this behavior, there are a few possible explanations:
- anxiety/stress;
- obsessive-compulsive disorder;
- boredom/lack of stimulation;
- nutritional deficiencies.
If you think your dog may have ELS, please make an appointment with your veterinarian, so they can rule out any underlying medical causes and help you develop a management plan.
Nutritional Deficiencies
A nutritional deficiency can also lead to your dog licking surfaces excessively. Dogs that are not getting enough of certain nutrients in their diet may start to lick surfaces as a way of trying to get those nutrients. If you think your dog’s excessive licking behavior might be due to a nutritional deficiency, please make an appointment with your veterinarian, so they can recommend a diet that is right for your dog.
What Does Treatment for ELS Look Like?
Once any underlying medical causes have been ruled out, treatment for ELS typically focuses on addressing the dog’s anxiety or stress. This may involve behavior modification techniques, such as desensitization and counterconditioning, and/or the use of antianxiety medication. Your veterinarian or animal behaviorist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for your dog.
When Should You Take Your Dog to the Vet?
Now that you know the answer to „Why is my dog licking the floor?”, you need to ask about the next steps. If you notice your dog licking the floor excessively, and they also have other symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, then you should take them to the vet right away. Excessive licking can also be a sign of allergies or other underlying health problems, so if you are concerned about your dog’s licking behavior, please make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Should I Stop My Dog From Licking the Floor
Most of the time, there is no need to stop your pup from licking the floor. If you think your dog is licking the floor just because they enjoy it, then there is no need to worry. Just make sure that they are not ingesting any harmful chemicals or cleaners that might be on the floor.
If your dog’s licking behavior is due to an underlying medical condition, your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan. If the excessive licking is due to anxiety or stress, there are many behavioral modification techniques that can be used to help your dog feel more comfortable. These techniques should be done under the guidance of a qualified animal behaviorist or veterinarian.
Dog Constantly Licking the Floor – FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about dogs licking floors occasionally or in an obsessive way.
Q: Is it safe for dogs to lick the floor after it’s washed?
A: It is usually safe for dogs to lick the floor after it’s been washed with a mild detergent. However, if you’re concerned that your dog might ingest harmful chemicals or cleaners, you can always give the floor a quick rinse with water before letting them lick it.
Q: Should I stop my dog from licking the floor?
A: Most of the time, there is no need to stop your dog from licking the floor. If you think your dog is licking the floor just because they enjoy it, then there is no need to worry.
Q: What should I do if my dog starts licking the floor excessively?
A: If you notice your dog licking the floor excessively, and they also have other symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, then you should take them to the vet right away. Excessive licking can also be a sign of allergies or other underlying health problems, so if you are concerned about your dog’s licking behavior, please make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Q: Can diet help with excessive licking?
A: Diet can sometimes play a role in excessive licking behavior. If your dog is licking excessively due to allergies, then changing their diet might help to reduce the symptoms. You should always speak with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Wrapping Up
Why is my dog licking the floor? You already know! Dogs will lick surfaces for a variety of reasons, including anxiety, boredom, and gastrointestinal problems. If you notice your dog excessively licking the floor or other surfaces, please make an appointment with your veterinarian, so they can rule out any underlying medical causes and help you develop a management plan.
