Do older dogs lick more?

Do Older Dogs Lick More? Unraveling the Behavior in Senior Canines

It depends. While there isn’t a universal “yes,” older dogs may exhibit increased licking due to a variety of age-related factors, including pain, cognitive decline, anxiety, and underlying medical conditions.

Understanding Licking in Dogs: A Foundation

Licking is a natural canine behavior. Puppies lick their mothers for grooming and comfort, and adult dogs use licking as a form of social interaction, self-grooming, and exploration. However, excessive or unusual licking in older dogs often signals a problem warranting investigation.

Why Might Older Dogs Lick More?

Several reasons can explain increased licking behavior in senior dogs. It’s crucial to understand these potential causes to address the issue effectively.

• Medical Conditions: Certain medical issues are more prevalent in older dogs and can trigger increased licking. These include:

  • Arthritis and Joint Pain: Dogs may lick at painful joints in an attempt to soothe the discomfort.
  • Dental Disease: Tooth decay, gum inflammation, or other dental problems can cause excessive licking of the mouth, paws (if scratching at the mouth), or objects.
  • Allergies and Skin Issues: Senior dogs are still susceptible to allergies and skin irritations, leading to increased licking and scratching.
  • Organ Dysfunction: Kidney disease, liver disease, and other organ problems can cause systemic discomfort and increased licking, including of surfaces.

• Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS): Canine cognitive dysfunction, similar to Alzheimer’s in humans, can cause disorientation, anxiety, and changes in behavior, including increased licking. These dogs may lick themselves, furniture, or other objects compulsively.

• Anxiety and Stress: Older dogs can experience anxiety due to changes in their environment, loss of mobility, or separation anxiety. Licking can be a self-soothing behavior in response to stress.

• Neurological Issues: In some cases, neurological problems can lead to repetitive behaviors like licking.

• Behavioral Reinforcement: If a dog’s licking behavior has been rewarded in the past (e.g., with attention or a treat), they may continue to lick to elicit the same response.

Identifying Problematic Licking

Not all licking is a cause for concern. However, you should be concerned if you observe:

• Sudden increase in licking frequency or duration.
• Licking that is focused on a specific area of the body.
• Licking accompanied by other behavioral changes (e.g., restlessness, vocalization, changes in appetite).
• Licking that causes self-harm (e.g., skin lesions, hair loss).
• Licking that interferes with the dog’s daily activities.

The Importance of Veterinary Consultation

If you suspect your older dog is licking excessively, the first step is to consult with your veterinarian. A thorough physical examination and diagnostic tests (e.g., bloodwork, urine analysis, radiographs) can help identify any underlying medical conditions.

Managing Increased Licking in Senior Dogs

The approach to managing increased licking will depend on the underlying cause. Potential strategies include:

• Treating the underlying medical condition: Addressing pain, allergies, dental problems, or other medical issues can often reduce licking behavior.
• Managing anxiety: Anti-anxiety medications, calming supplements, environmental enrichment, and behavioral modification techniques can help reduce anxiety-related licking.
• Providing mental stimulation: Keeping your older dog mentally engaged with puzzles, training exercises, and interactive toys can help reduce boredom and compulsive behaviors.
• Addressing Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS): Medications and dietary supplements are available to help manage the symptoms of CDS. A veterinarian can assess and recommend the proper course of treatment.
• Behavioral Modification: Techniques such as redirecting the dog’s attention, providing alternative behaviors, and using positive reinforcement can help break the licking habit.

Environmental Enrichment for Senior Dogs

Providing a stimulating and comfortable environment can help reduce anxiety and boredom, contributing factors to excessive licking. Consider these strategies:

• Comfortable Bedding: Ensure your dog has a soft and supportive bed to rest on, especially if they have arthritis.
• Accessible Food and Water: Make sure your dog can easily reach their food and water bowls.
• Puzzle Toys: Offer puzzle toys that require your dog to use their problem-solving skills to get a treat.
• Safe Chewing Options: Provide appropriate chew toys to satisfy your dog’s natural chewing instincts.
• Calming Music or Aromatherapy: Some dogs find calming music or aromatherapy helpful in reducing anxiety.

When To Be Most Concerned

The biggest red flags for licking come when it appears suddenly, becomes constant, or is directed at a specific area causing damage. If you notice these behaviors, seek veterinary advice immediately.

Prevention Strategies

While you can’t entirely prevent age-related issues, proactively caring for your senior dog can minimize the risk of excessive licking. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and mental stimulation are essential for maintaining their physical and mental well-being.

Key Takeaways on Do Older Dogs Lick More?

• While not a guarantee, older dogs may lick more due to age-related medical or behavioral issues.
• Underlying medical conditions, such as arthritis, dental disease, and allergies, can trigger increased licking.
• Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) and anxiety are also common causes of excessive licking in senior dogs.
• Consult your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the licking and develop a treatment plan.
• Environmental enrichment and behavioral modification techniques can help manage licking behavior.
• Proactive care, including regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet, is essential for preventing health issues that could lead to licking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can allergies cause older dogs to lick more?

Yes, allergies are a common cause of increased licking in dogs of all ages, including older dogs. Allergic reactions can cause skin irritation and itching, prompting the dog to lick at the affected areas to relieve the discomfort. Food allergies, environmental allergies, and flea allergies are all potential triggers.

Is it normal for my older dog to lick his paws constantly?

Constantly licking paws is not considered normal and often indicates an underlying problem. Common causes include allergies, skin infections, pain (such as arthritis in the paws), or anxiety. Consult your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. It could also be an indication of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction.

What if my vet can’t find a physical reason for the licking?

If a physical cause is ruled out, consider behavioral or psychological factors such as anxiety, boredom, or compulsive behavior. A veterinary behaviorist can help diagnose and treat these issues with behavior modification techniques and/or medication. Consider the dog’s history and any changes to their environment.

What can I do to distract my dog when he starts licking excessively?

Redirection is a useful technique. Offer a favorite toy, engage in a short training session, or take your dog for a walk. This can interrupt the licking cycle and provide a more appropriate outlet for their energy. Also, ensure they are getting adequate mental stimulation throughout the day.

Are there any over-the-counter remedies for licking?

Some over-the-counter remedies, such as bitter apple spray, can deter licking, but they are not always effective. Furthermore, they only address the symptom and not the underlying cause. Use them cautiously and always consult with your veterinarian before using any new products on your dog.

How do I know if my dog’s licking is due to pain?

If the licking is focused on a specific area of the body and is accompanied by other signs of pain, such as limping, stiffness, or reluctance to move, pain is a likely cause. Your vet can perform a physical examination and recommend appropriate pain management strategies.

Can changing my dog’s diet help with excessive licking?

If your dog has food allergies, changing to a hypoallergenic diet can help reduce licking caused by allergic reactions. Work with your veterinarian to identify potential food allergens and select an appropriate diet. Introducing new foods slowly and carefully is also key.

How is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosing CDS involves ruling out other medical conditions and assessing the dog’s behavior using a standardized questionnaire. There isn’t one definitive test. Changes in sleep-wake cycles, disorientation, and altered social interactions are common signs.

What medications are used to treat anxiety in older dogs?

Several medications are available to treat anxiety in dogs, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Your veterinarian can determine the most appropriate medication for your dog based on their individual needs.

Is licking a sign of dementia in older dogs?

Licking can be a sign of dementia (Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome) in older dogs, especially if it is accompanied by other behavioral changes, such as disorientation, memory loss, and altered social interactions. It is not the only symptom, so a full veterinary evaluation is required.

How can I prevent my dog from licking a wound?

An Elizabethan collar (cone) is an effective way to prevent your dog from licking a wound. You can also use a bandage or dressing to protect the wound, but make sure your dog doesn’t chew on it. Keeping the wound clean and properly treated is crucial for healing.

How do I clean areas where my dog has been licking?

Use a pet-safe cleaner to clean areas where your dog has been licking to remove any bacteria or allergens. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could irritate your dog’s skin or cause them to lick the area even more. Enzyme cleaners are effective for removing odors.