Understanding Why Dogs Lick

Licking is a natural dog behavior—but what motivates it? At Queva Pets, we know that every slobbery kiss tells a deeper story. Whether your pup is licking their paws, your face, or the floor, there’s more going on than simple affection.

• Communication and bonding: Licking can express affection and social acceptance.
• Exploration: Dogs use their tongues to interact with their environment.
• Comfort-seeking: Repetitive licking soothes anxiety and reinforces routines.

Oral Health and Lick Habits

Unusual licking can be an early sign of dental problems. Healthy mouths lead to happier dogs, so paying attention is key:

• Bad breath, drooling, or frequent lip licking might signal dental disease.
• Gum inflammation or tartar buildup can cause oral discomfort and licking.
• Excessive licking of hard surfaces could be a sign your pup is self-soothing oral pain.

Regular dental care and vet checkups are vital to prevent these issues.

Texture Preferences and Sensory Seeking

Dogs often gravitate toward licking specific surfaces or objects. Their preferences may reveal sensory needs or learned behaviors:

• Smooth surfaces: Glass, floors, or water bowls may feel calming.
• Textured fabrics: Blankets or clothing might offer stimulating sensations.
• Skin: Licking owners can provide reassurance or seek salty tastes.

If your dog excessively licks odd textures, consult your vet about possible neurological or dietary concerns.

Emotional Soothing Through Tongue Action

Much like thumb-sucking in toddlers, dogs lick to soothe themselves. It’s especially common in dogs dealing with stress, separation anxiety, or boredom:

• After stressful events like vet visits or loud noises
• When left alone or experiencing changes in routine
• During downtime, particularly in under-stimulated dogs

Creating a routine rich in physical and mental engagement helps reduce these symptoms.

Promoting Holistic Wellness Through Activity

Helping your dog stay active doesn’t just reduce anxiety—it also contributes to better oral and emotional health. At Queva Pets, we make tracking your dog’s activity effortless and insightful with our smart device:

• Activity tracking (walk, run, light, intense)
• GPS tracking to monitor movement and safety
• Health score insights to interpret trends over time

Explore how our device can support your pup’s health journey by visiting the Queva™ Smart Tracker product page.