As a vigilant dog owner, you might have noticed your dog frequently licking its lips. While this can be a simple sign of contentment or hunger, a dog that keeps licking its lips can also be a symptom of underlying health issues. In this article, we explore 6 key reasons for this behavior: Acid reflux, nausea, dental disease, stress, pain, and foreign objects. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore each of these factors to help you gain a deeper understanding of what your dog is trying to convey—and what steps you should take.
1. Reflux Esophagitis
Reflux esophagitis, also known as acid reflux, can cause your dog to lick its lips excessively. This occurs when stomach acid backs up into a dog’s esophagus and irritates the lining of the throat. When this happens, dogs may demonstrate their discomfort by repeatedly licking their lips in an attempt to soothe the area and reduce inflammation.
If your dog is dealing with reflux esophagitis, you may notice additional symptoms alongside lip-licking, such as frequent and 'hard' swallowing, hypersalivation, and lack of appetite. Other potential symptoms may include retching, extension of the neck, and restlessness.
Treatment often involves medications like omeprazole to reduce stomach acid build-up and metoclopramide to improve stomach-to-intestine flow.
2. Nausea
Nausea in dogs is a very vague symptom as there are numerous causes. Some of these include gastrointestinal diseases (e.g. ileus), motion sickness, kidney disease, vestibular disease, and even some toxins. Nevertheless, it is one of the most common causes of constant lip licking in dogs.
Besides lip licking, you might observe other signs of nausea in your dog, such as drooling, retching, vomiting, or decreased interest in food.
The course of treatment for nausea will depend on its underlying cause. One of the best medications for treating nausea in dogs is maropitant (Cerenia®). Dietary changes, such as bland diets or feeding smaller portions more frequently, may also be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of nausea.
3. Periodontal Disease (Dental disease)
Periodontal disease (dental disease) is another common cause of lip licking in dogs. This condition is characterized by progressive and often severe inflammation and destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth. It can also lead to tooth root infections or abscesses, which may contribute to your dog's persistent lip-licking behavior.
Beyond the noticeable lip licking, other signs that your dog might be suffering from periodontal disease include bad breath, reddened gums (suggesting gingivitis), and sometimes difficulty chewing. In more advanced cases, you may even notice loose teeth or bleeding gums. In many cases, however, there are no overt symptoms of periodontal disease.
The primary treatment for periodontal disease involves professional dental cleaning and assessment by a veterinarian under anesthesia. Many times, extraction is required for the affected teeth.
There are many preventive measures including regular teeth brushing, dental chews, water additives, and specialized dental diets.
4. Stress or Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are also possible explanations for a dog that keeps licking its lips. Emotional triggers can range from changes in the environment to separation from family members, and understanding these triggers is very important for effective management.
Dogs that have stress or anxiety may also show other signs including panting, pacing, or excessive barking. You may also notice general restlessness or changes in their eating and sleeping habits.
Managing stress may include behavioral training, environmental changes, or, in severe cases, an anti-anxiety medication. A consultation with your veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist is essential for determining the most effective approach tailored to your dog's unique needs.
5. Pain
Pain can be a compelling reason behind your dog's excessive lip-licking behavior. Whether it's due to an injury, arthritis, or an underlying medical condition, physical discomfort can lead your dog to lick its lips as a coping mechanism.
Signs of pain in dogs are numerous and may also include panting, restlessness, lethargy, lack of social interaction, aggression or other behavioral changes, or the reluctance or inability to move normally.
Treatment for pain in dogs will depend on the underlying cause and may involve anti-inflammatory medications and/or pain relievers. Consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment if you suspect your dog is in pain.
6. Foreign Object or Material
Finally, a foreign object or material stuck in the mouth or upper gastrointestinal tract (esophagus or stomach) can cause your dog to keep licking its lips. This could range from a piece of a toy, sticks, peach pits, and other objects.
In addition to frequent lip-licking, you may observe your dog pawing at its mouth, drooling excessively, lack of appetite, or attempting to vomit. These symptoms will vary greatly depending on where the foreign material is lodged.
Treatment depends on what and where the object is located. Mild cases can potentially be managed with an oral examination and removal of the foreign material. However, if your dog has swallowed something that cannot pass through the gastrointestinal tract, it may require surgery to remove it.
What to do if you notice your dog that keeps licking its lips?
If you notice your dog continually licking its lips, it's time to play detective for your dog's well-being.
Start by asking yourself a few key questions:
Gather as much information as you can and bring it to your veterinarian. It is important to communicate any changes in behavior or physical appearance in order for them to make an accurate diagnosis and provide a successful treatment plan.
Your answers will provide valuable clues for potential causes. Importantly, make a list of observed symptoms and behaviors to share with your veterinarian. The next step should be a thorough veterinary examination to rule out health issues and determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan tailored for your furry friend.
In conclusion, persistent lip-licking in dogs is a behavior that should not be overlooked. While it may appear harmless or occasional, it could be indicative of a range of underlying issues. As we've discussed, the 6 key reasons your dog may be licking its lips include reflux esophagitis, nausea, periodontal disease, stress or anxiety, pain, and the presence of a foreign object in the mouth or upper GI tract. Understanding these potential causes and their corresponding symptoms can empower you to take appropriate action. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.