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Why Does My Dog Lick The Furniture [6 Reason & Prevention]

It can be very confusing when your buddy is trying to lick the furniture.

It may seem so odd.

And you might be wondering why he is doing that; furniture doesn’t have any taste either. 

There can be many things behind your dog’s furniture licking. It can be because of scent identification, or it can be boredom. It can also be because of anxiety or nutritional deficiency. Another possibility is extensive compulsive behavior, or neurological disorder can also be responsible. 

Don’t get dizzy on that note.

Read the whole article and clear your head out!

6 Reasons Why My Dogs Lick the Furniture

Let’s say; that lately, there’s a new puppy in the house. Then immediately, you’ll notice that she licks everywhere. However, one of the strangest things it frequently chews is the furniture.

It is typical to scratch the floor or lick it to obtain delight. But why would she lick the couch if it doesn’t taste good?

We are aware that dogs enjoy licking their claws. They lick their self with their mouths to express their human adoration. And, occasionally, squishy objects around, like carpeting or couches.

But, observe if your dog licks the furniture regularly and consistently. There could be more serious reasons. 

Is your dog licking the couch, your favorite chair, bed cushions, and other substrates?

Perhaps this isn’t always the case. It’s most likely not because the couch is smeared with snacks. Picking the furnishings can indicate nervousness, tension, or even a health ailment.

Here I have described the most probable explanations for why your dog chews furniture.

Reason 1: Because of the Scent

A dog can obsessively lick specific furniture, such as your favorite chair or its sleeping mat because the fabric has a unique aroma that he triggers by licking it. 

The dog may activate his scent to satisfy himself that he is in the correct location.

Ideally, dogs will begin licking the furniture because it includes your or someone else’s scent. This behavior could be a gesture of devotion to demonstrate that the dog adores you. 

Your pup may simply be chewing the furniture to enjoy the flavor of the fabric. Like when your dog licks your pillow.

It’s possible that your dog sniffed out some food particles embedded in the fabric. A dog’s sense of smell is unparalleled. And can find an appealing fragrance from its favorite reward. 

But, because the particles are so deep in the fabric, finding the source can be difficult.

Reason 2: Because of Boredom

Your dog may have chosen a chair, floor, or sofa to lick out of boredom. A behavior that has progressed to being harmful and compulsive.

Leaving your dog at home alone for a long time, he may feel bored. Dogs lick to pass the time when they are bored. t may lick anything in its vicinity to give the time until you arrive. 

It may also lick because the texture of the chair resembles your skin. And provides some consolation in your absence.

Reason 3: Because of Anxiety

Is there anything that could be causing your pet tension and anxiety? Your pet may be licking the sofa because the soft fabric provides an outlet for his emotions.

Aside from that, the dog may be sucking for comfort and as a coping strategy, just as humans need a massage to relax from time to time. 

You may look for other symptoms, like if he licks his lips so much. 

Reason 4: Because of Nutritional Deficiency

You may have recently modified your dog’s nutrition. And there are some in your dog’s diet that is deficient. He prefers to satisfy the void by licking the couch, sofa, or fabric-like furniture.

When dogs are nutritionally deficient, they usually try to recover by chewing grass. That is, if your dog is unable to go outside. He will attempt to lick cloth or fabrics such as furniture.

Reason 5: Because of Compulsive Behavior Or Neurological Behavior

You can determine whether your dog’s licking is problematic or not. You can do this only by simply observing him. The behavior is frequent every day and licking for a very long period.  

Dogs can practically put their jaws on whatever they see or come into contact with, including you or your furnishings.

Dogs can also suffer from neurological issues called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD). As with any other ailment, this condition changes a dog’s awareness. And may cause your dog to chew anything.

Reason 6: Because of Irritation

Irritability and sensitivity can cause your dog to do strange things for relief, such as licking the floor and furniture.

Insects such as mites, giardia, and fleas might annoy your dog. That causes it to lick your furniture to relieve the itching. Alternatively, inflammation may be caused by dietary allergies.

How Do I Prevent My Dog from Licking Furniture

It can be bizarre when you see your pup licking the furniture. And most annoying when you sit on the couch. And guess what? Your sofa is wet with your dog’s saliva. 

But it’s okay; you can prevent this with some simple steps. 

Here’s what you will be doing:

Method 1: Avoid Encouraging this Behavior

Suppose your dogs act this way to attract or treat you. Then, by avoiding them or not treating them, this behavior can be avoided.

If he receives what he wants, he will reinforce his behavior. 

Method 2: Positive Reinforcement Training

Reinforcement training can teach your pup to obey your commands. And by doing so, you can direct him not to lick the furniture.

The only method to reinforce training is to treat. Reward your dog for following every command. It will motivate him and positively affect him.

You can give your dog some vitamin-enriched treats or healthy treat biscuits. There are numerous treats available on the market from which to choose. 

These items will be a big help to your dog’s nutrition. Also, this could be a mouth-watery treat for your pup.

Method 3: Consult a Vet

Suppose your dog exhibits this behavior and is a bit compulsive. Tour veterinarian will take the necessary safeguards to help him leave this compulsive behavior.

We’ve covered all of the significant points on this subject. We hope it will be helpful to get basic information. Then it’s preferable if you console a veteran.

FAQs

What exactly does it signify when a dog licks anything?

Dogs lick to relieve inflamed skin. It can also be used to alleviate discomfort from illnesses such as arthritis. This can be caused by a skin problem, an allergic reaction or an injury.

Is it okay to give Tums to my dog?

The simple answer is yes. You can give tums to your dog for digestive troubles. And it may provide temporary comfort, but it is not the most effective treatment option.

What causes dogs to kick after they poop?

By kicking up dirt, they combine the aroma of the bathroom with the pheromones. These pheromones are released by their foot glands. And used to create a single strong scent. Furthermore, the disturbed grass is a visual cue to other canines that they are in someone else’s territory.