Here’s Why Dogs Lick Their Beds
1. It’s a Grooming Habit
Just like cats, dogs groom themselves to take care of their hygiene. By licking their dog bed, dog kennel for truck bed, etc. they’re able to cleanse their body of dirt and bacteria. Licking also releases calming hormones, which can help your dog relax and fall asleep.
2. It’s a Form of Communication
Some experts classify licking as a form of communication because it’s a way dogs share information. Dogs may lick their bed to show they’re comfortable and content in their surroundings.
3. It’s a Defense Mechanism
Some dogs lick their beds because they’re nervous or anxious. This is the dog’s way of dealing with their emotions. If you notice your dog licking his boxer dog bed excessively, it may be a sign he’s feeling stressed out about something in his environment.
4. It’s a Way to Show Love
Some dogs lick their beds as a sign of affection and love. Just like humans, dogs may show their affections by showering those they care about.
5. They Like the Feel of It
Dogs don’t have hands to pet themselves with, so licking is one way they learn about their bodies and surroundings. Some experts believe that dogs lick their beds because they enjoy the way it feels.
6. It’s a Way to Get Attention
Dogs may also lick their beds as a way to get attention from their owners. If your dog is constantly licking his bed, try to give him more attention when he’s not doing so. Spend time playing with him, taking him on walks, and petting him to help reduce his anxiety.
7. It’s a Sign of Hunger
If your dog is licking his bed while he’s resting or sleeping, it could be a sign that he’s hungry. If your dog wakes up from a deep sleep only to jump down from the bed and begin licking, try giving him a treat when he’s done.
8. It Helps Relieve Stress
Licking is also the dog’s way of releasing calming hormones through his saliva, which can help relax him and reduce stress. If your dog licks his bed while you’re around, it could be because he enjoys your company.
9. He’s Tasting His Surroundings
Dogs use their sense of smell to learn more about their surroundings, including taste. If your dog is licking his bed while you’re around, it could be because he’s trying to get a better read on his environment by tasting it.
10. He’s Bored!
Dogs that lick to kill time may need more stimulation and exercise to keep them mentally stimulated. Make sure your dog gets plenty of playtime, exploration, and outdoor time.
Animals commonly display licking, chewing or drooling behaviors when they are feeling nauseated. Some pet medicines can cause your dog to feel nauseous, especially if you give medications on an empty stomach. Changes in diet or significant consumption of human food can also cause a dog to become nauseated. Excessive licking can be a symptom of a medical problem such as gastric disease, liver problems or a neurological disorder. Consult a veterinarian if your dogs licking behavior changes significantly or is cause for concern.
A dog may lick her bed for biological reasons. Mother dogs commonly lick their puppies as a way of cleaning them. If your dog has recently given birth to puppies, she may be licking her bed because of a biological urge to keep her pups environment clean. Other times, bed-licking may simply indicate that your dog is hungry or looking for food. Some dogs keep chews and treats in their beds — licking the bed may occur when the dog licks up crumbs or chew pieces.
Dogs are historically pack animals, and many of their behaviors are based in the psychology of working with a pack. A dog licking his nose may be signalling his submission to a dominant dog, or indicating non-aggression towards other animals and humans. Licking can also manifest as a symptom of anxiety, stress or boredom. Compulsive grooming behavior is commonly witnessed in dogs that are stressed or under-stimulated in their environment. Bed-licking may be a form of attention-seeking behavior. If you pay attention to your dog when he licks his bed, you may be providing the attention your pet craves.
If your dog is licking his bed because of an underlying medical condition, your veterinarian will advise you as to the appropriate treatment options. You can manage and reduce licking behavior stemming from psychological issues by reducing your pets anxiety and stress levels. Provide a consistent daily schedule and routine for your dog, praise good behavior and do not reinforce problem behaviors by increasing your attention levels. Feed your dog away from his bed, and make sure the bed itself is always clean. Provide daily exercise opportunities and a range of toys and dog chews to keep your dog occupied in the home.
Jae Allen has been a writer since 1999, with articles published in “The Hub,” “Innocent Words” and “Rhythm.” She has worked as a medical writer, paralegal, veterinary assistant, stage manager, session musician, ghostwriter and university professor. Allen specializes in travel, health/fitness, animals and other topics.
How Can I Stop My Dog From Licking The Bed?
Not all the reasons behind your dog’s bed licking behavior are harmless, but even it was I think you’d still want this licking to stop.
No matter how much you love your dog, and enjoy having them on your bed, it doesn’t mean you also want to lay on slimy sheets or rest your head on a soaked-through pillow.
Thankfully there are ways to protect your bed, and we’ve got a few that might work for you and your precious doggy.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Beds? 11 possible reasons | DogVela
You walk into the house after a long day at work and your pooch pounces on you, slobbering you liberally as he swishes his tongue all over you. You will definitely feel loved and welcome, knowing how much you were missed.
Licking is one of the ways in which the dogs communicate. They lick to express their love and to clean themselves and their little ones. Many times, the licking is just normal behavior. So if you see them licking the bed, should you worry?
If it is any of these reasons, you can deal with it by providing your pooch with a lot of natural chews and bones. Give him time, attention and plenty of exercise to ward off boredom and anxiety. Playing with him can be a great way to overcome some of the unwanted behaviors. If there is going to be a change, make it gradual and give her time to get accustomed to it. Also, make sure she is well fed and has plenty of naps.
Excessive bed licking could lead to hot spots, hair loss or skin irritation. Do not punish your pet, though. Positive reinforcement through rewards for listening to you might be more effective in getting your dog to stop licking indiscriminately.
Oh, and do not feed your dog near the bed and keep the bed always clean.
But if none of these work and there are other worrying symptoms, it may be time to see the vet.
Do you notice your loyal friend going off into a trance while licking furiously? It may be more than just boredom or anxiety. An underlying medical condition such as gastrointestinal problems may cause your pet to lick strange surfaces like your bed to get some relief. Some pet medicines, changes in diet or increased consumption of human food can trigger nausea and the dog may lick the bed to overcome it.
According to one study of 19 dogs, 74% were found to lick objects excessively because of health conditions such as:
These are easily treatable with a timely visit to the vet. So, while you may not want to worry too much, don’t delay going to a professional for guidance. It may be that you need a trainer or the vet, but either way, getting your pooch out of the habit is good for you and him.
You are your pooch’s pack and leader. You are his family. You are everything to this loving, lovable canine. Give him the right social cues, the right attention, diet and exercise so that he can remain healthy and a joy forever. But if things seem to go out of hand, do not hesitate to consult a professional.