Maltese Only News
November 2001

Dogs lick for a number of reasons. They lick to groom themselves and others. They lick your sheets because they like the taste of the detergents. They lick your carpet because a great-tasting food was spilled there earlier. And they lick as a way of greeting to strengthen their relationships. While it's true that often dogs lick due to the need to show affection, the aroma of the skin may be yet another reason.

A dog may lick his face or feet afer eating. But incessant licking may mean trouble. "Licking the front feet can signal allergies," says Tony Ketelaar, DVM, of the Brumley Veterinary Clinic in Lisle, IL. "Where humans get itchy eyes, dogs get itchy skin."

Your dog could be having an allergic reaction to metals, rubber, wool, plastic or irritants such as dyes, deodorizers or poison ivy. Or, it could be due to something he's inhaled, such as polen, dust mites and mold. Other signs include inflamed ears and itching.

Another reason your dog may lick could be due to neurodermatitis. This obsessive self-licking results from anxiety, boredom or stress.

If your dog is licking excessively, see your veterinarian.