In this article you will know the answer to the query “Why Do Dogs Lick Their Beds? 11 possible reasons“.
Litters are licked by dogs. Its part of what they do. So why do older dogs lick more than their younger counterparts? Why do they lick their beds when they are crying in a bucket? Thats surely not pleasant. What do you think? After all they sniff each others butts as well. Gross.
If your dame suddenly starts licking her bed more than usual you might be worried. Here are some common reasons why older dogs lick their beds.
It’s Her Bed
Territorial behavior is characteristic of dogs. Rather than peeing all over the place some lick what they view as theirs such as their beds in order to stake a claim. When they’re tired they spread their scent around for a calming effect.
She Has the Munchies
Food and treats are often hidden in dog beds or dogs carry their favorite treats to their beds to eat there. Sheila might be licking her bed to clean up some crumbs or because it smells like those tasty treats you spoil her with.
If you are not bothered by this behavior do not worry about it. If the smell bothers you you could always remove these treats and wash the bed properly to eliminate them. Feeding your old dame away from her bed is a good idea. In addition to keeping the mattress clean she would not associate the bed with eating.
She Wants Attention
A great deal of their behavior comes from this heritage as dogs are inherent pack animals. Grooming excessively or licking excessively is often a sign of submissiveness anxiety stress or boredom. Your elderly pet might be telling you she needs some mommy cuddles or she might be stressed if shes licking her bed like crazy. You can try giving her some love to see how things go.
When you notice your dog licking her bed pay attention. A pattern might emerge that helps explain the behavior.
Separation Anxiety
You’ll be able to follow your routine with ease with your older dog. This is the case even if hes an older dog. If she licks her bed around the time you get out of work or the gym or when you’re getting ready for an outing it might be a sign of separation anxiety.
A traumatic event or age isnot necessary to trigger this condition. The condition affects puppies as well as older dogs and can occur at any age. Separation anxiety is sometimes triggered by an experience your pooch found traumatic such as if you went away for a two-week vacation withouther.
Be on the lookout for these signs and reassure her that you’ll be back soon. Leave her with a comfort object like a favorite toy to help her cope in this regard. You should also be cheerful so she knows that its not a big deal and that you would not stay away forever. Once you return make a big fuss to welcome her again. Make sure she knows you’re glad to see her again.
She’s Bored
A dogs boredom can be expressed in various ways such as licking and mischief. When you are not looking your dog might be bored if shes licking her bed or chewing on random objects.
If your pooch is among the more intelligent and energetic breeds like the Jack Russell or German Shepherd this is especially Although older dogs are not as active as they user or be they still need lots of stimulation. Exercise her regularly and keep her occupied with intelligent toys. ate exercise.
Due to debilitating age-related conditions such as arthritis aging dogs can not run around as much as they used to.
Being a loving parent to your fur kid you may find this to be challenging and tough as some exercise is sure to counteract the boredom.
Hence you must find ways to stimulate your pooch in a way that is not too physically demanding but also stimulates her enough to keep her from getting bored.
She Might Feel Under the Weather
Whether you’re human or canine old age is not for the weak-hearted. Its common for dogs to start drooling licking and chewing when they are feeling under the weather particularly if they’re nauseous.
The diet of your pooch might have changed recently or she might be less tolerant of the foods she used to love. All of these symptoms could be the result of old age catching up with her and she might start licking things after meals (especially her bed).
Observe patterns again since they will help you determine the cause and if its anything to worry about.
A sudden change in your furry friends behavior may require a visit to the vet. She might be experiencing some health issues.
She’s Stressed Out
When stressed dogs exhibit excessive grooming behavior. Some dogs find licking therapeutic similar to how their humans enjoy a relaxing massage.
Dogs who are older tend to be less tolerant of noise and movement in their immediate surroundings than their boisterous puppy counterparts.
As soon as you realize that this is the case you should help your grandmother calm down her environment. Maybe she is telling you that its time to let the kids play outside or to turn the music down.
Since you are her parent you are the best person to figure out why she is so stressed out.
A consistent daily routine is generally helpful for calming down stressed-out dogs. I know it sounds weird because all they do is eat sleep and play right? But because they are creatures of habit they still expect certain things at certain times. You can help your furry child manage expectations by keeping things consistent so she would not freak out when something unexpected happens.
Missing Some Mommy Love
Occasionally dogs are taken away from their mothers too soon. Stray dogs or dogs in other types of difficult circumstances are especially susceptible to premature separation.
In search of that maternal affection these pups will start licking things (themselves the floor furniture people) as they grow (usually after puberty).
Like their mother used to do when they were babies licking other things. Its no different for our four-legged kids who have some soothing mechanisms to help them through tough times.
Usually this behavior is not a problem and can be remedied by giving your pooch a bit more attention. Just watch the tongue of your pup carefully. Occasionally licking course surfaces can cause irritation which requires your intervention.
OCD Dog
Its true that our pets can get OCD too it isnot just a human condition. She might be suffering from this awful condition if she is licking her bed compulsively. She does not just sniff for treats when shes getting ready to nap. Shes a poor dog. So shes exhausted by the time she goes to bed its best to keep her busy and occupied during the day. She’ll be tired enough to sleep through the night without fussing.
Old Age
Every species including your pup suffers from old age. When dogs suffer from dementia they tend to lick their beds more often. Canines do not suffer from this disease as much as humans do. As a result its not something to worry about.
You might notice that your pooch is losing her appetite responding slower sleeping more or being irritable as she ages. Have you ever heard of the grumpy old man syndrome? These factors could cause her to lick her bed as a form of coping. All of these conditions are not necessarily alarming however it would be wise to keep an eye out for patterns or if they get worse. You should speak to your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Managing the Situation
There are a variety of reasons why dogs lick. Although some of these reasons are entirely harmless others are cause for concern. You may notice a pattern when your dog licks her bed which can help you identify the cause.
Through positive reinforcement you can discourage your dog from licking for behavioral reasons. The only way to get your dog to stop when you say “stop” or “leave it” is to reward her. Punishment will not help in this situation.
Help your old dame manage her stress by creating a calm environment. You can apply this principle to any behavior caused by environmental factors.
Consult your veterinarian if your dog is licking her bed for a medical reason. Note any accompanying behavioral and physical changes – these might help the vet figure out whats going on.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why dogs lick and most of them are entirely harmless. If you notice your dog jumping on her bed regularly you might want to do some investigating. Check for environmental or medical causes if the behavior is new and sudden. Its probably nothing to worry about if your dog has always been a “licker.”
If you’re unsure speak with your veterinarian to rule out any serious causes.
Amanda (Author)
With over a decade of experience, Amanda is a distinguished dog trainer. Her expertise in canine behavior has transformed countless lives, fostering harmonious human-canine connections. Through compassionate and personalized approaches, she empowers owners to understand and connect with their furry companions, creating a legacy of joyful tails and transformed lives.
Osvaldo Maciel (Content Reviewer)
Osvaldo Maciel, a stalwart in the field with 14 years of experience, is a revered dog trainer. His journey is defined by a profound understanding of canine behavior, shaping unbreakable human-canine bonds. Osvaldo guides owners to connect with their beloved pets, leaving an indelible mark of happiness and transformation. His legacy shines through the countless lives he has touched.
