Seeing your pooch grooming itself can be endlessly cute, but what if it becomes a little too much? If you have a Chihuahua, which you probably do, otherwise you wouldn't be reading this, you certainly are introduced to their incessant licking habit. They lick themselves, they lick their owners, they lick even things. Yes you read it well.
Ok, so, maybe your neighbor's Chi doesn't perform so much of the licking rituals, which is fine, every dog is different, but your does, and lately, it kinda makes you wonder whether everything is fine with your little princess.
Yes, we have come to the point of asking ourselves: Why do Chihuahuas lick so much? What can it actually tell you? Wanna find out? Keep reading.
Why do Chihuahuas lick so much – reason 1
LICK YOUR WAY THROUGH THE WORLD, DOGGO!
Dogs like to lick, and that's a fact. Just like a tiny little human chews its way through the world to get to know it, dogs like to lick their way through it.
Having cubs is a blessing, feeding them great, but licking them, oh, gives them life and affection. That's why mother dogs lick their precious offspring.
That way they clean them, make them warm and cozy, and being the first thing they feel post meeting the world no wonder puppies love to lick so much.
Remember that time you took your Chi to the park and she spent half of your outing licking other Chihuahua? Yes, that's what they do and it's completely normal.
Another reason dogs like to lick among themselves is a sign of submission. A dog licking another dog's mouth tells the pack they know who the boss is and know their place on the playground.
But if your pooch is intensively grooming themselves they are probably beauty industry pretenders without your knowing. Just kidding. But maybe not. Why not help them? Chihuahua Portable Paws Cleaner can be a colorful way to keep your doggo's paws all set for indoor activities.
Why do Chihuahuas lick so much – reason 2
YOUR BOSS, GIVE THEM THAT GLOSS
Having a dog is a synonym for spending a lot of time having it slobber all over you. Some people love it, some don't, but doggos are sure mad about it.
One of the reasons that might be is because they love your salty skin. And that lotion you bought yesterday...mmm delicious!
They show you how much they love you.
Or maybe they want to tell you something, maybe something like:
"Feed me, hooman!" or "Poo time!" or maybe "Something’s wrong, help me find out!"
But can licking be a sign of a health issue?
Why do Chihuahuas lick so much – reason 3
HELLO, ANXIETY, MY OLD FRIEND!
If you find your princess licking itself a little too often for your liking, it’s about time to do something about it.
And, yes, dogs too can be anxious.
Some of the reasons your pooch might have developed anxiety are:
- Aging
- Fear
- Separation
Licking themselves, they’re trying to create a safe environment, release endorphins and ease a bit. To put it short, they want to get rid of the stress.
If, by any chance, you have reasons to think this true about your doggo, know that in such cases they may develop a sort of OCD named canine compulsive disorder where they obsessively start licking themselves which can possibly result in bald spots and skin irritations.
In any way, facing this condition may bring your Chihuahua down, but you must be up and a step ahead. Take your princess to the vet and have him diagnose the real problem.
Why do Chihuahuas lick so much – reason 4
LICK THROUGH YOUR PAIN.
Did you know dogs’ have magic abilities to cure your wounds? Let them lick it and it will heal shortly.
Yes, that’s great, but the magic we talk about here is their saliva rich in antibacterial stuff. So, that’s why you’ll often see dogs licking their wounds.
And if your Chihuahua happens to be licking over and over a place on its tiny little precious body, especially paws, besides their wish to be groomed and beautiful, it can be a sing of pain.
Why do Chihuahuas lick so much – reason 5
TO SOME ACTIONS THERE’S ALLERGIC REACTIONS.
Chihuahuas, just like any other doggo, can have allergic reactions. One of the signs your Chi is suffering allergies is excessive mouth licking.
Allergies tend to bring about other symptoms too, but your pooch’s licking is definitely one of them.
If you happen to be suspecting such a nuisance, make sure you and your Chi pet visit a veterinarian. The allergies are here to stay and so will your dog’s manic licking habit if you don’t root it out.
To wrap it up!
Letting your Chihuahua love themselves, others, and especially you, is amazing and lifefulfilling. May it bring joy and happiness! But staying alert to any possible behavioral disorder is extremely important.
Your doggy doesn’t speak your language. But it sure has its own to tell you how they feel.
