Dogs are fascinating creatures, and we love watching them go about their daily routines. One habit that many dogs have is lip licking, which can be both endearing and concerning for dog owners. Understanding why your dog is constantly licking its lips is essential to their overall well-being. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why dogs lick their lips and what you should do if you notice this behavior in your furry friend.
Dogs communicate in many ways. Aside from using their voices, they also use their senses of smell, sight, and touch. However, licking is one of the most common signals that dogs use to communicate. It could indicate that they are feeling hungry, nervous, or happy to see you. Lip-licking could also be an indication of certain health issues that you should be aware of.
Behavioral Reasons Why Dogs Lick Their Lips
1. They are Feeling Anxious
When dogs are feeling anxious, they might lick their lips as an instinctive response to regulate their body temperature. Cortisol, the stress hormone, can raise blood pressure and heart rate, leading to symptoms such as muscle tension, trembling, and rapid breathing. Licking their lips could be a way for dogs to cool down their body or calm down their brain. Other anxiety-related behaviors in dogs include excitement and nerves.
If you notice your dog lip-licking out of anxiety, you can help them by reassuring them through petting, cuddling or giving them a treat.
2. They are Happy to See You
If your dog licks its lips in response to you, it could mean that they are bored and seeking attention, excited and waiting for treats or food, or anticipating attention from a specific person. They might also be smelling something that only they find interesting.
3. They are Responding to Another Dog or You
While lip-licking behavior can often be seen as a submissive and appeasing gesture, it could also indicate irritation or anger. A low-level lip-lick might signal appeasement among adult dogs, while a high-intensity lip-lick with retracted lips suggests annoyance or anger. Low-intensity lip-licking is a submissive gesture, while high-intensity lip-licking is an indication of dominance struggles between canines or a way to get the attention of another dog or you.
Health Reasons Why Dogs Lick Their Lips
1. Allergies and Other Health Conditions
If your dog is constantly licking its lips due to pleasant scents or hunger, it might indicate that it’s suffering from an underlying health condition. Gastrointestinal disorders, allergies, or liver condition could all trigger lip-licking behavior in dogs. It’s essential to take your dog to the vet if you notice this behavior, coupled with other signs of distress, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, and excessive drooling.
2. Dehydration
If your dog licks its lips to cool down, it might be an indication that it’s dehydrated. By licking its lips, dogs try to increase the moisture content in their mouth and cool down their tongue, which can get too hot when dehydrated. Therefore, if your dog is lip-licking and presenting other symptoms such as dry mouth, dark urine, pale gums, panting, and vomiting, it’s essential to seek the advice of a veterinarian.
3. Dental Issues
If a dog licks its lips after eating or drinking, it could mean that there are too many bacteria on the surface of their teeth, causing pain when they chew. This could lead to tooth decay and gum disease, which is why it’s important to keep your dog’s teeth clean and free of tartar buildup. If you notice any redness or tenderness around your dog’s mouth, consult a veterinarian to examine them for oral problems.
4. They are in Pain
If your dog is showing signs of discomfort, such as excessive lip-licking, take them to a veterinarian immediately. Symptoms such as yelping, whining, lack of appetite, and shaking could indicate a serious health condition.
5. They Have Had a Partial Seizure
Partial seizures are electrical disturbances in the brain that sometimes cause a brief loss of consciousness. Dogs might try to lick away the taste of the seizure or perceive things in a distorted way when experiencing this health issue.
In conclusion, lip-licking in dogs is a common behavior that can be endearing or concerning, depending on the cause of the behavior. Understanding the reasons why your dog might be lip-licking is essential to their overall well-being. If you notice this behavior and accompanying symptoms, consult your veterinarian to ensure that your furry companion is healthy and happy.
