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Why is my dog excessively licking himself? Should I be worried?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

Why is my dog always overlicking himself?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 19th, 2019

It could be a behavioral issue or it could be caused by allergies or skin issues. Some dogs just like to lick, and as long as it doesn't damage the skin or you aren't battling an infection, it isn't always harmful.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on January 16th, 2017

    Excessive licking can indicate both a behavioral and a medical problem. When a dog licks its own body - for example, it's paws - it's most often a sign of itchiness and irritation. We see this commonly with contact allergies, such as to grass or other plant material, but dogs can have allergies to a variety of environmental allergens. Licking seems to cause release of substances known as endorphins, which relieve pain, and we believe this is often what drives dogs to lick. If your dog is licking objects - floors, walls, carpet, the furniture, for example - this can be an indication that he is attempting to satisfy a nutritional need that is not being met. And if medical problems are ruled out, constant licking may be attributable to behavioral problems, such as obsessive -compulsive disorders.

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