It can be a bit concerning when your dog starts licking the air continuously. Here's what you should know about getting your dog to stop licking the air.
Dogs are known for their tendency to pant and lick their fur. Interestingly, not many people know that dogs sometimes lick at the air, too. This behavior, known as "dog licking air," can be attributed to various reasons and is a common way for dogs to communicate with their owners about an underlying problem.
Animals have a unique way of letting the world around them know when they need something. Unlike humans, dogs don't wield the power of words, which forces them to adopt alternate practices like licking the air to get their point across. Below is a detailed discussion on what makes dogs lick at the air and what we can do to make them stop!
Is It Normal For Dogs to Constantly Lick Air?
A dog's tongue plays a significant role in the way these animals communicate with their owners and environment. Generally, a dog's lick won't be without purpose. Hence, it's important to pause and think about what a dog might be trying to convey by licking the air. There isn't any one fixed reason behind why your dog is licking at air. The exact explanation behind this behavior generally depends on the environment and may vary from dog to dog. Despite this, we can say that it is perfectly normal for dogs to lick the air every now and then. But if your dog has made this licking a noticeable habit, there might be an underlying abnormality or stressor causing it.
What Does It Mean When a Dog Keeps Licking The Air?
As discussed above, there are many possible explanations for your dog's tendency to lick the air. We'll explore these reasons in detail below:
Stress and Anxiety
Significant amounts of stress can induce anxiety in dogs. As a result, your pet may begin to lick at the air in an attempt to dispel their anxious feelings. Owners that have a stern or harsh attitude with their dogs might induce anxiety within them. If your pet is experiencing nausea due to stress, they may also display other symptoms like an upset stomach or repetitive behaviors such as excessive licking.
Compulsive Disorder
We now know that a dog may begin to lick at the air because of heightened anxiety. But when it becomes a chronic problem, they may develop compulsive behavior that forces them to continuously lick the air. This repetitive behavior is often linked to canine cognitive dysfunction or other compulsive disorders. The best way to overcome this is by speaking to a qualified vet.
Unwanted Particles Lodged in Mouth
Your dog might lick at the air if there's a small, foreign object or food stuck in their teeth. If there's nothing in the teeth, you might find debris of bone or harsh foods stuck to the roof of their mouth. Overcoming this problem is extremely easy. All you need to do is remove the particles and thoroughly clean your dog's mouth to prevent dental pain and other health concerns.
Development of Olfactory Sense (Smell)
Licking the air can help a dog improve their olfactory sense. Young dogs may lick at the air when their sense of smell is still developing. An adult dog might lick at the air to get a better idea of what its surroundings smell like. Unlike humans, dogs can use both their mouths (thanks to their vomeronasal organ, also known as Jacobson's organ) to pick up on biological scents. This behavior, known as the flehmen response, is perfectly normal and doesn't require any treatment.
Dental Issues
A dental disease can cause dogs to lick at the air in an attempt to overcome tooth or gum pain. If you've also noticed any significant changes in your dog's eating and biting habits, they might need to see a dentist soon! Just like us, dogs require proper dental care, or else they might develop cavities, weak gums, and related dental troubles.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Your dog may be licking at the air to combat the stress that comes with having a serious gastrointestinal problem like acid reflux or inflammatory bowel disease. Licking at the air also helps dogs deal with their nausea, which is a common side effect of most GI issues. Other signs of an underlying gastrointestinal issue include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and a sensitive abdominal region. You'll need to see a vet to help your dog overcome their GI problems. It's best to seek an expert's opinion instead of experimenting with unknown medicines at home!
Partial Seizures
In some cases, dogs may lick the air excessively due to partial seizure activity. Seizures can trigger unusual behaviors and repetitive actions such as air licking. If you notice your dog showing other signs of seizures or if the licking behavior is accompanied by other unusual symptoms, consult a vet immediately for a thorough evaluation.
Environmental Triggers
Environmental triggers such as loud noises, new pets, or changes in routine can cause dogs to feel stressed and resort to air-licking as a coping mechanism. Ensuring a stable and comforting environment can help minimize these triggers and reduce the behavior.
How To Get Your Dog to Stop Licking Air
The first step is to successfully identify the reason behind your dog's licking behavior. Once you've done this, you can use the advice given above to help them overcome it. However, if you feel like your dog's licking has become obsessive and is no longer within their control, see a vet immediately! It may point towards an underlying illness or be a result of compulsive disorder, as discussed above. If you leave a dog's habit of obsessively licking the air untreated for too long, it may become a permanent habit. This may stress out both you and your dog, which is why it's better to seek veterinary care right away!
By understanding the root cause of your dog's air licking and addressing any environmental changes or health concerns, you can help your canine companion feel more comfortable and reduce this behavior. Remember to always provide fresh water, avoid loud noises, and ensure regular vet check-ups to maintain your pet's well-being.
