Why Does Your Dog Lick the Air? 

Why Does Your Dog Lick the Air? 

If you’ve noticed your dog licks the air, you might wonder why they exhibit this behavior. It’s a common question we hear at Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital in Cooper City, FL. Understanding your dog’s actions can help you ensure they’re happy and healthy. This blog explores possible reasons behind this behavior and when it might be a sign to call us at (954) 432-5811 for a check-up.

 

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Understanding the Behavior: Why Dogs Lick the Air

Dogs communicate in various ways, and licking the air can be one of them. But what does it mean? Let’s dive into some of the reasons behind this peculiar habit.

Health-Related Causes

Sometimes, when a dog licks the air, it could be signaling a health issue. Dental problems, gastrointestinal discomfort, or even neurological conditions can lead to this behavior. If your dog suddenly starts licking the air frequently or shows other signs of discomfort, it’s time to get in touch with Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital. Our team can help determine if there’s an underlying health issue that needs attention.

Behavioral Reasons

Not all air licking is a cause for concern. Sometimes, it’s just a quirky habit or a way for dogs to express their feelings. Anxiety, stress, or even boredom can lead dogs to lick the air. Understanding your dog’s environment and daily routine can provide clues as to whether their behavior is behavioral. Enriching your dog’s environment with more playtime, exercise, and mental stimulation can often reduce stress-induced behaviors.

When to Be Concerned

While occasional air licking is usually harmless, certain signs warrant a call to Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital. If air licking is accompanied by symptoms like loss of appetite, vomiting, excessive drooling, or signs of pain, it’s time to seek professional advice. Our team is ready to help, ensuring your dog receives the care they need.

  • Gastrointestinal Issues: If your dog licks the air and shows signs of gastrointestinal distress, such as gas, bloating, or changes in bowel movements, it might be time for a check-up. These symptoms, combined with air licking, can indicate digestive problems that require professional attention.
  • Dental and Oral Health Concerns: Dogs might lick the air due to discomfort in their mouth or teeth. Regular dental check-ups are vital to catch any issues early. At Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital, we can assess your dog’s oral health and provide treatments to keep their mouth healthy.

Preventative Measures and Care

While you can’t prevent every cause of air licking, maintaining a healthy routine for your dog can minimize the risk. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise is key. Regular visits to Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital allow our team to catch and address potential health issues before they become serious. Reducing anxiety and stress in your dog’s life can also help minimize behavioral reasons for air licking. Ensuring your dog receives a balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs can help as well.

Navigating Your Dog’s Health and Behaviors Together

If your dog licks the air, it could be for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple habits to more serious health concerns. Keeping an eye on this behavior and understanding its context is important. At Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital in Cooper City, FL, we’re committed to providing your dog with the best care possible. Should you have any concerns about your dog’s health or behavior, please call us at (954) 432-5811. Our team is here to support you and your pet, ensuring they lead a healthy, happy life.

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About Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital

Located in Cooper City, FL, we strive to do more than simply be a full-service veterinarian for your pet. Our decades of experience has served generations of families and their beloved pets and we look forward to serving you as well!