Distract dog from obsessive licking

Dear Cathy: We have a big 14-year-old Silky Yorkie namedHowie. InNovember, my husband got severely sick and was hospitalized. I took care of Howie while working and going to the hospital, but he was alone much more than usual. During that time, I noticed Howie licking the floor all the time.

We are now nearly five months’ post-op, and Howie continues to lick the floor nonstop. Even at night when the lights are out, we can hear him licking the bedroomfloor.

I don’t knowhow to make him stop licking.— Marilene, Boca Raton, FL

DearMarilene: Ifyourveterinarian ruled out medical problems, thenHowie’s licking probably is fromstress or separation anxiety when your husbandwas hospitalized.

Obsessive dog licking is sort of the human equivalent of humans biting their nails.

If Howie is always licking the same spot on the floor, you can spray some Bitter Apple (available at pet stores) to discourage him.

When Howie starts to lick the floor, say “Howie, no lick” to interrupt the behavior. When he looks at you, and he should because you said his name, tell him “good boy” and give him a treat. (If he doesn’t look at you, shake a can of coins to interrupt the behavior and get his attention.) Then give him a puzzle toy (available at pet stores) with a treat inside, so he must think about how to get the treat out. If he is thinking about something else, he should forget he needs to lick things. You can also walk him or play a game of fetch with him— anything to distract him.

If he continues to lick obsessively, talk to your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist about introducing anti-anxiety medication until he breaks the habit. I also recommend having his mouth checked for gum disease since he is losing teeth. If his gums hurt, he may be licking the floor to make them feel better.

Send questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com.