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Why is my dog lip smacking while on antibiotics for GI issues?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 8 years and 5 months old | 13 lbs

My dog is eating drinking water seems playful, however he has this thing now that he keeps licking his lips. Kinda lip smacking. He’s on antibiotics for a GI bacteria he had. But isn’t lip smacking that he’s in pain? He’s regular otherwise and I don’t know if I am over thinking

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 16th, 2020

Lip smacking is mostly a sign of GI upset. So this fits with his current bacterial infection that he is dealing with. Once his GI tract is back to normal, the lip smacking should resolve itself. I would also consider putting him on a probiotic (i.e. Fortiflora or Proviable) along with the antibiotic, to ensure his normal flora is regulated. Ask your vet for some or you can try purchasing some online. Best of luck with your pup Bitbit moving forward. Take care.

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