Do you have a Shih Tzu that loves to lick you? You’re not alone – it is a common behavior among these lovable fur balls.
But why do they do it so much? In this article, we’ll explore the eleven possible reasons why your Shih Tzu may be licking and provide some tips to help manage the behavior.
So read on and find out why your pup loves to lick!
Why Do Shih Tzus Lick So Much
This adorable breed of dogs is known for their affectionate nature, and licking is one of the ways they express their love and emotions.
Shih Tzus have been bred to be companion animals for centuries, and licking serves as a bonding mechanism and a source of comfort for them.
Licking their owners is a means of showing affection and gratitude, creating a strong sense of connection between the Shih Tzu and their human family members.
Additionally, licking can also be a self-soothing behavior for these dogs, helping them relax and alleviate any stress or anxiety they may be experiencing.
So, if you have a Shih Tzu that loves to shower you with licks, consider it a sign of their unwavering love and devotion.
Overview Of Typical Shih Tzu Behavior:
Shih Tzus are known for their charming and affectionate nature, making them popular pets among dog lovers.
These small-sized dogs possess a distinct personality that sets them apart.
One common behavior of Shih Tzus is their gentle and loving demeanor towards their human companions.
They thrive on attention and enjoy being the center of attention, often seeking out their owner’s affection through cuddling and belly rubs.
Their friendly disposition extends beyond their families, as they are generally amicable towards strangers and other animals.
Although Shih Tzus can be quite sociable, they may also display stubbornness at times, especially when it comes to training.
This breed requires consistent, patient training methods to overcome their independent streak.
Additionally, Shih Tzus are generally a low-energy breed, preferring to engage in short bursts of play rather than prolonged exercise.
Overall, their mixture of affection, friendliness, and occasional stubbornness makes them a delightful and lovable addition to any home.
Let’s read on and explore the possible reasons why your Shih Tzu may be licking and provide some tips to help manage the behavior:
1. Grooming instincts
Hey there! So, let’s chat about grooming instincts in our adorable Shih Tzus.
Now, have you ever wondered why your furry friend licks themselves so much?
Well, one possible reason is their innate grooming instincts.
You see, Shih Tzus have been bred to be companions, but they still retain some of their ancient heritage as excellent little hunters.
That means they might lick themselves to keep their fur clean and free from any unwanted critters or dirt. It’s just their way of taking care of themselves!
2. Dry skin and allergies
So I heard you’ve noticed your adorable Shih Tzu licking a lot lately, and you’re wondering why?
Well, one possible reason might be dry skin and allergies. Just like us humans, our furry friends can experience dry skin too, and it can cause them some discomfort.
Allergies can be another factor that worsens this situation.
So, it’s always good to keep an eye out for any signs of itching, redness, or flakiness on your pet’s skin and consult a vet for proper guidance.
Don’t worry, with the right care and attention, your precious Shih Tzu can get back to feeling their best in no time!
3. Boredom and anxiety
Hey there! Let’s talk about boredom and anxiety in your adorable Shih Tzu.
You see, the possible reason why your furry friend may be licking so much could be related to these two factors.
Dogs, just like us, can get bored or anxious when they lack mental and physical stimulation.
When they feel bored, they tend to seek activities that can keep them occupied, which in this case might be excessive licking.
Similarly, anxiety can trigger this behavior as dogs may resort to self-soothing techniques like licking to help deal with their unease.
So, it’s essential to make sure your Shih Tzu is getting enough exercise, mental stimulation, and love to keep those worries at bay.
4. Dental issues
Oh, those adorable little Shih Tzus! They bring so much joy into our lives with their fluffy coats and wagging tails.
However, sometimes our furry friends can have dental issues, leading to excessive licking.
But fret not, my fellow pet parents, because there’s always a solution!
It could be something as simple as a build-up of tartar or a gum infection.
Just like we humans take care of our pearly whites, it’s essential to give our four-legged companions the attention they deserve.
Regular dental check-ups, brushing their teeth with dog-friendly toothpaste, and providing them with dental chews can help keep those canine kisses fresh and their mouths healthy.
So let’s keep those tails wagging and those tongues licking in the happiest way possible!
5. Nutritional deficiencies
Isn’t it fascinating how our adorable furry friends can communicate their needs in such unique ways?
Well, if your Shih Tzu has been showing an extra interest in licking lately, it might just be their way of telling you something.
Now, let’s put on our detective hats and delve into the wonderful world of nutritional deficiencies!
It seems that the possible reason behind your precious pup’s excessive licking could be a lack of certain vital nutrients.
Don’t worry, though; it’s nothing a little dietary adjustment can’t fix.
So, let’s brighten up their bowl with a variety of delicious and nutritious foods, ensuring our four-legged buddy gets all the vitamins and minerals they need to keep those kisses coming!
6. Environmental factors
Isn’t it fascinating how the environmental factors can have such a major impact on our beloved Shih Tzu’s licking behavior?
It’s like their way of expressing themselves and adapting to the world around them!
From the soft breeze that tickles their furry faces to the delightful aroma of freshly bloomed flowers, there’s just so much to explore and experience.
Perhaps the allure of a sunny day or the sound of chirping birds has sparked your furry friend’s curiosity, prompting them to embark on an endless licking spree.
So, let’s embrace these environmental wonders and cherish the delightful moments they bring to our furry companions!
7. Paranoia or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Do you ever find yourself wondering why your adorable Shih Tzu is licking so much?
Well, fear not, dear pet owner, as there may be a perfectly harmless explanation behind this curious behavior!
One possible reason could be our furry friends’ unending enthusiasm for cleanliness.
Just like humans with a touch of OCD, these delightful pups might be a tad overzealous when it comes to keeping themselves spick and span.
So, take a moment to appreciate your Shih Tzu’s meticulous grooming habits, for who wouldn’t want a constant reminder of the importance of personal hygiene right at their feet?
8. Sensitivity to external stimuli
Hey there! So, you’ve been noticing that your adorable Shih Tzu seems to be licking a lot, huh?
Well, let’s dig a little deeper into this behavior and try to understand what might be going on.
One possible reason for excessive licking in Shih Tzus could be their sensitivity to external stimuli.
You see, Shih Tzus are known to have a keen sense of awareness when it comes to their surroundings.
They can pick up on even the slightest changes in their environment, whether it’s a new scent, a strange noise, or even a different texture.
And sometimes, these external stimuli can trigger a licking response in your furry friend.It’s important to remember that dogs often use licking as a form of communication.
It’s their way of soothing themselves or trying to deal with any discomfort they might be experiencing.
So, if your Shih Tzu is licking excessively, it could be their way of trying to cope with the overwhelming external stimuli they are sensing.
To help your adorable pup, you might want to create a calm and comfortable environment for them.
Minimizing any excessive noises, using scents that they find comforting (like lavender or chamomile), and providing a safe space for them to retreat to can make a huge difference.
9. Hormonal imbalances
Hey there! So, let’s talk about hormonal imbalances for a second, shall we?
It’s quite interesting how these imbalances can sometimes affect our adorable furry friends, like your Shih Tzu.
Now, the possible reason why your little buddy might be licking like there’s no tomorrow could be due to hormonal imbalances.
You see, hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, and when they get a bit out of whack, it often leads to some quirky behaviors.
But fret not, with a visit to the vet and some appropriate treatment, your Shih Tzu will be back to their usual happy and waggy self in no time!
10. Social bonding and affection
Oh, let me tell you something interesting about our adorable little Shih Tzu friends!
The possible reason why your bundle of joy may be licking so much could be due to social bonding and affection.
You see, Shih Tzus are incredibly affectionate creatures who love showering their owners and other pets with heaps of love and care.
Licking is their way of expressing their fondness and creating stronger bonds with those they consider part of their pack.
So, next time your fluffy friend covers you in slobbery kisses, just know that it’s their way of saying, “I love you!
11. Lack of proper training
Hey there! I hope you and your adorable Shih Tzu are doing well.
I wanted to talk to you about something that could potentially be causing your furry friend to lick excessively.
One possible reason could be a lack of proper training. Sometimes, dogs lick as a form of communication or to seek attention.
By providing your pup with the necessary training, you can teach them alternative ways to express their needs and desires.
It’s essential to establish clear boundaries and teach them acceptable behaviors to help curb their excessive licking.
Remember, a little training can go a long way in building a healthy and happy relationship with your Shih Tzu!
How To Manage Excessive Licking In Shih Tzus
If you’re a Shih Tzu owner, you may have noticed that your furry friend has a tendency to excessively lick themselves.
While occasional licking is normal behavior for dogs, excessive licking can be a cause for concern.
It can lead to skin irritations, infections, and even behavioral issues if left unaddressed.
To help you manage this behavior and ensure the well-being of your Shih Tzu, we have shortlisted 10 effective tips on how to manage excessive licking in Shih Tzus.
These tips are based on expert advice and proven techniques that have helped numerous dog owners tackle this issue successfully:
1. Identify the underlying cause: Excessive licking can be triggered by various factors such as allergies, boredom, anxiety or pain.
It’s crucial to identify the root cause before implementing any management strategies.
2. Consult with a veterinarian: If you notice persistent excessive licking in your Shih Tzu, it’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian who can perform a thorough examination and provide appropriate guidance based on your dog’s specific needs.
3. Maintain proper grooming: Regular grooming practices such as bathing and brushing help keep your Shih Tzu’s coat clean and free from irritants that may trigger excessive licking.
4. Provide mental stimulation: Boredom is often a leading cause of excessive licking in dogs.
Engage your Shih Tzu in mentally stimulating activities such as puzzle toys or interactive games to keep their minds occupied.
5. Ensure regular exercise: Adequate exercise not only helps burn off excess energy but also promotes overall well-being in dogs.
Regular walks or play sessions can help reduce anxiety levels that may contribute to excessive licking.
6. Address potential allergies: Allergies are common triggers for excessive licking in Shih Tzus.
Work with your veterinarian to identify any potential allergens and develop an appropriate diet or medication plan if necessary.
7. Use deterrents: There are safe deterrent sprays available that can be applied to areas your Shih Tzu tends to excessively lick.
These sprays have a bitter taste, discouraging further licking.
8. Provide distractions: Offer your Shih Tzu alternative activities or toys that can redirect their attention away from excessive licking.
Chew toys or treat-dispensing puzzles can be effective in keeping them occupied.
9. Consider behavioral training: In some cases, excessive licking may be a learned behavior.
Enroll your Shih Tzu in obedience training classes to address any underlying behavioral issues and establish proper boundaries.
10. Seek professional help if needed: If all else fails, do not hesitate to seek assistance from a professional dog behaviorist or trainer who specializes in managing compulsive behaviors like excessive licking.
By implementing these effective tips, you’ll be well on your way to managing excessive licking in your beloved Shih Tzu and ensuring their overall health and happiness.
Remember, patience and consistency are key when addressing any behavioral issue, so don’t get discouraged if progress takes time.
Possible Health Concerns Of Excessive Liking In Shih Tzus
When it comes to our beloved Shih Tzus, their health and well-being are of utmost importance.
Excessive licking in Shih Tzus may seem harmless at first, but it could be indicative of underlying health concerns that require attention.
In this section, we will give 10 possible health concerns that can arise from excessive licking in Shih Tzus.
1. Skin Irritations: Excessive licking can lead to skin irritations such as redness, rashes, or hot spots.
2. Allergies: Shih Tzus may develop allergies to certain foods, environmental factors, or even grooming products, causing them to excessively lick their paws or other body parts.
3. Infections: Frequent licking can create a moist environment that is conducive for bacterial or fungal infections.
4. Dental Issues: Licking excessively may indicate dental problems such as tooth decay or gum disease.
5. Pain or Discomfort: If your Shih Tzu is experiencing pain or discomfort in a specific area of their body, they may resort to excessive licking as a way to alleviate it.
6. Anxiety and Stress: Dogs often lick themselves excessively when they are feeling anxious or stressed due to various reasons like separation anxiety or changes in their environment.
7. Digestive Problems: Gastrointestinal issues can sometimes manifest through excessive licking as dogs try to soothe themselves by self-grooming.
8. Parasites: Certain parasites like fleas and ticks can cause intense itching and discomfort leading to excessive licking behavior.
9. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances in Shih Tzus can result in skin problems and itchiness which may trigger excessive licking.
10. Neurological Conditions: In some cases, excessive licking can be a symptom of underlying neurological conditions that require veterinary attention.
It’s important to note that while this list provides possible health concerns related to excessive liking in Shih Tzus, a proper diagnosis from a veterinarian is essential to determine the exact cause and provide appropriate treatment.
