Dogs behavior problem - licking

[adamak]

My recently adopted Sheltie, Frege, loved to lick anything around him. He licked the wall until there is a big hole in the wall. All the paint stuck between his teeth. He would lick until the bed is soaked. I tried buying him chew toys and he didnt' touch anyone of them. He barely liked treats, and would not touch the chewing bones.

He is a great dog. He's a little obessive. What else can I do?

You can see Frege's picture by clicking on http://Photos.Yahoo.com/AdaTMak

Then click on Pets. (And you can view my Disney trip / BCV pictures too).

 

[Luv2Roam]

My oldest has a licking problem, but not near as severe. And she licks only one spot on her leg and often has a huge sore.
Her problem was diagnosed as "Cribbing". We were told horses do this too and it's a nervous habit -- such as a human would bite their fingernails. Nervousness, restlessness and boredom.
As soon as we get her leg healed up, she's back at it again.
Now she's OLD (14 years at least) and has a huge bump where she has done this cribbing all her adult life. It doesn't bother her though. (Us more so than her.)
Check with your vet.

 

[Kallison]

Try bitter apple spray?

 

[nativetxn]

I don't have any advice for you, I just wanted to tell you that I think your little dog is so beautiful

 

[Kermit]

Our dog did that. I asked the teacher at doggie school about it when he was in school, but she had never heard of it.

Our dog likes to lick fabric and upholstry. He used to lick both of our spots in bed each night right before DH and I went to bed. I did finally make him stop, but you need to be strong to be able to do this. What I did was muzzle his mouth shut with my hand while saying "No licking." I had to hold it for several seconds until he started to whine. Now he barely ever licks, and I can just say "No licking" without muzzling him. I'm glad I did it, but it was heartbreaking to hold his mouth shut until he cried.

 

[RitaZ.]

No advice to offer. Just wanted to tell you that your dog is beautiful!

 

[adamak]

Very funny answer, JasonLyons. You crack me up. You really want a woman who does nothing but lick beds?

I will try the bitter apple spray. Except, I will have to spray it all over my walls.

I have been taking him to doggie school, and he's learning gradually. He is so smart.

And yes, he is very very beautiful. And friendly, and attachy. I love him to death. He is the love of my life.

Can you believe such a wonderful dog is left on the street? I got him from the Long Island Sheltie Rescue. Thank god for those dedicated rescue people that Frege is saved. I cannot even begin to imagine what would have happened to him otherwise.

 

[poopie]

It's just nerves and once the dog realizes you are going to keep it safe ans warm it will relax a little and stop the licking.