Concerned about your dogs' frequent habit of licking household furniture suddenly - particularly the couch and the bed? Worry not because you aren’t alone in this! While some degree of licking is instinctual in dogs, excessive and compulsive behavior may indicate that your pet could be experiencing sensory depression, anxiety, stress or boredom.
The other possible reason could be underlying medical conditions that drive a dog to lick couches obsessively. To help analyze and resolve these triggers in dogs and possibly prevent further long-lasting behavioral changes, it's recommended to engage them with plenty of interactive games, toys and activities throughout the day while keeping alert for signs indicative of additional stressors building up on them.
Let's dig in and find why do dogs lick the couch!
8 Reasons Why Dogs Lick Couches & Furniture
There's a Delicious Snack on the Couch
Your dog may be looking for a tasty snack if you have recently spilled food on the couch or if they detect a whiff of food from an earlier spill. If you give them treats on the couch, they may try to dig into the cushions in search of the crumbs.
They Prefer the Couch's Texture
Dogs can't use their hands like we can to feel around a new texture; instead, they have to use their tongues. Dogs and puppies often use their licks to investigate new things, including the unique feel of your sofa.
In case your dog is specifically fascinated and attracted to the sofa and related furniture, you’ll notice that your little dog might start licking it on a regular basis.
They are Bored & Looking for Entertainment
Your dog may lick your couch as a kind of entertainment if they are bored and are looking for something to do.
We understand that it might seem odd to you when your dog spends their free time licking the furniture, but when you deeply analyze the reason for doing that, you’ll know why.
They are Trying to Cope with Anxiety
Licking is a pretty common way for dogs to calm themselves. There are several products on the market designed to encourage licking because of how efficient it is at relieving stress and boredom in dogs.
Anxious dogs are more inclined to lick furniture and other objects than dogs without anxiety. Some dogs, when anxious, will also lick their paws excessively, which can cause painful skin irritation.
They have an Insatiable Urge to Lick Anything in Sight (a compulsion)
If your dog seems to have developed an obsessive urge to lick the couch at every available opportunity, a behavioral specialist can help. Otherwise, if these dogs are prevented from getting on the couch, they may appear frantic and may even become aggressive.
They have a History of Medical Conditions
Strange behavior, such as licking obsessively and overeating, could be signs that your dog is suffering from a medical issue that is causing some form of sickness. Although sofa licking may be one of the more noticeable changes in behavior, there are likely to be others.
Changes in appetite, thirst, body weight, state of fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, drooling, and even hair color may be among these signs. Couch licking is a curious behavior, but if your dog is exhibiting any other unusual symptoms, you should consult a vet.
Scent Marking
Dogs have smell glands all over their body, including their paws, which they use for scent marking. They basically use their own fragrance to identify their territory. Licking the couch can be one such scent marking approach.
This action tells other animals that the bed is claimed and helps to solidify their status in the community. Dogs mark their territory with their scent to make it feel like theirs and provide a sense of safety.
Pheromone Attraction
Dogs have the ability to detect even minute amounts of pheromones released by other animals in the vicinity. These other animals can include members of their own species owing to their acute sense of smell. Emotional states, social standing, and sexual availability can all be communicated via pheromones.
The presence of pheromones on the fabric or bedding material may entice a dog to lick the surface. They gain access to and understand these scent cues by licking, which can make them feel safe, secure, and at ease. It's a method for them to feel closer to the familiar scents of their pack mates or even themselves.
What are the Most Frequent Items Licked by Dogs?
Dogs have a preference for licking easier-to-reach and softer items. Common targets include the dog's bed, blankets, towels, couches, chairs, and carpets are also popular licking targets. It is important to make sure that there aren’t any other secondary issues that may cause your dog’s anxiety level to trigger, such as a sudden change in habitat.
Why is my dog licking the suede on my couch?
Why does my dog lick the microfiber couch?
Why does my dog lick the bed?
Key Factors Behind Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Dogs
It's recommended to take your dog to the doctor if you notice any unusual behavior or if problems with licking and nibbling worsen without explanation.
- The abrupt onset of couch licking and chewing can indicate a more serious problem.
- Couch licking is a symptom of a wide range of problems, from behavioral disorders and environmental worries to dental discomfort and diseases of the pituitary gland.
- Anxiety problems are a common cause of compulsive behaviors, like spinning, chewing, sucking, biting, and even tail chasing.
A point to remember here is that, even if you notice a small change in behavior towards an object or habit, you shouldn’t let that become habitual as it may have a negative impact on your dog’s overall health.
It's likely that professionals will diagnose a compulsion and offer treatment or behavioral modification therapy.
In other cases, the problem may be the result of a bad habit rather than any underlying worry or compulsion. Perhaps, they tried licking the couch once and liked the way it felt so much that they kept doing it.
It's vital to resolve this right away because it's a symptom of developing obsessive behaviors down the line.
What Can I Do to Stop My Dog from Licking the Couch?
Resolving behavioral issues in dogs starts with identifying what may be causing them. By gaining insights into these underlying issues, you can make wise decisions that will benefit both your cherished pet and yourself.
- Spending additional time with the dog might be quite helpful if you think boredom is to blame for obsessive couch licking. When it is safe to do so for their health, get them out for walks and add more exercise to the routine.
- Keep the lights on, the radio or TV on, and provide plenty of fun toys for your dog to play with during his or her alone time at home. Dogs can be kept occupied and stimulated with puzzle and chew toys.
When it comes to caring for our furry friends, one key aspect is managing their anxiety levels effectively. While some sources of stress are beyond our control, it’s crucial not to overlook the power of reducing avoidable triggers that could cause unease in our dogs. By doing so, we can promote greater relaxation for ourselves and our beloved companions alike.
Avoiding or diverting the dog's attention away from potentially unpleasant circumstances is another option.
Licking behavior can be managed alongside the underlying medical condition. When it comes to diagnosing and maybe treating OCD or other anxiety disorders, your veterinarian is also your finest resource.
After ruling out physical causes, your vet may prescribe training, environmental enrichment, or medication to aid your pet's mental health. They may also be able to suggest licensed trainers who can assist in correcting undesirable behaviors.
Takeaway
Dogs may lick the couch for a variety of reasons, including satisfying their natural instincts or a desire for sensory input. Though it is normal for dogs to lick their lips every once in a while, constant licking or a sign of compulsive behavior may be due to possible anxiety, stress or a medical problem. Keep an eye on your dog, make sure it gets enough exercise and mental stimulation, and consult a vet if the licking becomes a problem. If you wish to protect your dog’s health in the long run, packed with good mental health and positive energy, figure out why it keeps licking the couch with the help of this guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some possible medical causes behind dogs licking furniture?
Dogs may lick furniture for a variety of reasons, including those related to their health, such as allergies, skin irritations, or underlying medical diseases, such as digestive problems or neurological disorders.
What are some alternate activities that I can encourage rather than couch licking, and how can I do this?
Give your dog puzzle games, chew bones, or interactive toys to keep them cognitively and physically busy so that they will engage in other behaviors instead of licking the couch. Participating in consistent physical activity, like training sessions or playtime, can also help to divert their attention away from sofa licking.
Is there a correlation between the dog's age or breed and the fact that they lick furniture?
To some extent, a dog's age and breed can play a role in determining why they lick the couch. Couch licking is a behavior that can be exhibited by puppies as part of their exploratory growth stages or as a part of the teething process. Certain breeds that are known for their dental fixation or high energy levels may be more likely to indulge in couch licking.
References and Links:
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/dog-lick-furniture/
- https://www.woodhavenfurniture.com/blogs/advice/why-does-my-dog-lick-the-couch
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/why-do-dogs-lick-furniture-6744992
