There is no surprise that dogs are exceptionally active with their tongue. They lick for a lot of reasons. Dogs usually use their tongue to show their best friend humans some affection, taste the salt of the skin, or groom themself.
Dogs explore the world with their mouths. Licking is a natural behavior for gathering information. Sometimes, they might lick particular objects that can seem odd initially.
However, there are a couple of reasons why your dog is licking the couch. Let’s delve into some of the most common reasons.
Why Does My Dog Lick The Couch?
The Texture of the Couch Feels Great
Dogs, unlike humans who use their hands, depend on their mouths to explore their surroundings. This natural curiosity extends to the textures around them, notably the ones in your home.
If your dog finds the fabric of your couch intriguing, you might often catch them in the act of constantly licking it as they investigate and experience the world in their unique, canine way.
Medical Reasons
In some cases, excessive licking can be a sign of medical issues. Allergies, dental and oral disease, skin irritations, or gastrointestinal problems can lead to licking.
In fear of underlying medical issues, you will most likely also observe some of these symptoms in addition to the couch-licking:
- Changes in appetite.
- Fluctuations in weight.
- Alterations in thirst levels.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Excessive drooling.
- Lethargy.
- Changes in coat appearance or texture.
Contact a veterinarian if you suspect health-related issues.
Neurological issues
Sometimes, a dog’s furniture-licking habit could stem from neurological issues, including dementia or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Dogs with OCD-related licking often display persistent behavior that’s hard to interrupt. This compulsive action can be more than just a quirky habit; it can signal a deeper health concern.
If you suspect that a neurological condition like OCD is behind your dog’s constant licking, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. A professional assessment is key to understanding and managing such behaviors effectively.
Remember, timely intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s quality of life.
Boredom and Stimulation
Have you ever been so bored you wanted to lick the couch? Neither have I, but your dog may do it. If their minds appear understimulated, they might do something unusual to pass the time.
A lack of physical and mental stimulation can lead to boredom in dogs. Licking can be a way to pass the time.
Ensure enough play, exercise, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
If this behavior keeps reappearing daily, I recommend getting your dog some toys or treats so they can stimulate their body and mind.
Self-Soothing Because of Stress and Anxiety
When dogs lick different objects, dogs, or people, it calms their minds. Licking objects for no reason can signal that your dog is feeling stressed or experiencing anxiety. Instead, the act is a kind of self-soothe for the dog.
Check if the environment around the dog has changed or if there are other thinkable reasons why the dog might feel a little anxious.
Malnutrition / Nutritional Deficiency
Dogs licking the couch can be a sign of malnutrition or some nutritional deficiency. Electrolyte imbalances can result in excessive licking of surfaces.
You may need to switch to a higher-quality food or add supplements. Essential minerals like sodium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus are vital, with iron deficiency potentially leading to anemia.
Malnutrition can also stem from health problems, indicated by hair loss, skin issues, and increased infection risk. Metabolic disorders, IBS, or food allergies, often marked by vomiting and diarrhea, can impair nutrient absorption. Low energy is another sign of dietary issues. Always seek veterinary advice if you notice these symptoms.
The Couch Tastes Amazing
Sometimes, the licking can be because of the most obvious reasons. Our canine friends have great noses, and they can smell many good smells from your couch. It might not just be the couch itself but can be leftover food, especially if your dog is interested in the sofa pillows.
Rinse the sofa and see if the licking continues.
How Do You Make the Dog Stop Licking the Couch?
In this section, I will give you some effective strategies to stop your dog from licking furniture.
1. Utilizing Positive Reinforcement
One of the most effective methods to curb furniture licking in dogs, especially if it’s behavior-driven, involves positive reinforcement. This approach includes rewarding your dog for not licking the couch and withholding attention when they do.
Introduce appealing alternatives like chew toys or licking mats to divert their attention from the furniture. If you notice your dog engaging in unwanted licking behavior, gently redirect them to these toys.
2. Dietary Adjustments and Supplements
Sometimes, a dog’s licking habit can be due to a nutritional deficiency. Addressing this might involve incorporating dietary supplements or switching their food type. However, always consult your vet first to ensure you choose the right supplement and dosage for your dog’s needs.
3. Minimizing Stress and Anxiety
Identifying and reducing stressors in your dog’s environment is crucial if anxiety or stress triggers their licking. Start by pinpointing what causes stress for your dog and then work to minimize their exposure to these triggers.
If reducing stress doesn’t alleviate the licking, consider the following two options:
4. Anxiety Medication
In cases where licking is a symptom of anxiety, your vet might prescribe medication to help manage your dog’s stress levels. This solution can be temporary or long-term, depending on your dog’s situation.
5. Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy might be recommended if your dog’s licking is rooted in behavioral issues. This involves working with a behavioral specialist to train your dog to stop the unwanted licking. This method is often more long-term but can be highly effective in correcting the behavior.
6. Increased Physical and Mental Activity
Enhancing your dog’s exercise and mental stimulation can significantly help if boredom is the cause of their furniture licking. More exercise means your dog might be too tired to engage in licking and, instead, opt for resting.
Engage your dog in activities like extended walks, fetch, or tug of war. For more creative ideas, check out “24 Indoor Activities for Dogs.” Boost mental stimulation by offering puzzles, Kongs, or Snuffle Mats. Learn how to make a DIY Snuffle Mat in our guide, “Make Your Own Snuffle Mat.”
7. Using Deterrents
If your dog licks furniture due to its taste or smell, consider using a deterrent spray. These sprays have an unpleasant taste to discourage licking. Always test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid damaging your furniture.
Regular reapplication may be necessary. Products like Stop the Chew and Bitter Apple Spray are popular choices. With consistent training, your dog should gradually lose interest in licking the furniture.
Implementing these strategies should help in managing your dog’s furniture-licking habit effectively.
Conclusion
While some dogs may simply enjoy the texture or taste of the couch, licking can also indicate stress, boredom, or even medical problems.
Understanding the underlying cause is important for your dog’s well-being. If you think you have figured out the reason why your dog is licking the couch, try out some of the 7 tips I have now given you if you want to stop the dog from licking the couch.
