Why Do Dogs Lick Themselves and Their Genitals?

Why Do Dogs Lick Themselves Constantly?

Dogs use their tongues as a cleaning tool to clean their bodies. However, there may be other reasons behind licking:

1. Hygiene and Cleanliness

Dogs may lick to clean their fur and relieve themselves. This behavior is especially common in long-haired breeds.

2. Itching and Skin Problems

• Allergies: Food, environmental factors (pollen, dust, house mites) or contact allergies can cause irritation on the dog's skin.

• Parasites: External parasites such as fleas, ticks or scabies can cause itching on a dog's skin.

• Fungal and Bacterial Infections: Fungal and bacterial infections can develop in moist environments, causing itching and irritation.

3. Injuries and Irritations

If your dog has injured himself, he may try to heal the wound by licking it, just as humans feel the need to clean a wound. However, excessive licking can delay wound healing and lead to infection.

4. Stress and Anxiety

Stress in dogs can cause increased licking behavior. Dogs that try to calm down by licking may develop obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).

5. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances like hypothyroidism can cause skin irritation and hair loss, which can cause dogs to lick themselves in response to itching and discomfort.

Why Do Dogs Lick Their Genitals?

While dogs licking their genital areas is sometimes a normal hygiene behavior, sometimes it can be a sign of a serious illness.

1. Cleanliness and Hygiene

Dogs clean their genital areas by licking after they need to go to the toilet. This is a completely natural behavior and is usually not a cause for concern.

2. Infections and Irritation

• Urinary Tract Infections: Urinary tract infections in dogs can cause symptoms such as frequent urination, a burning sensation, and constant licking of the genital area.

• Vaginitis (Diatrisitis) and Balanoposthitis: In female dogs, inflammation of the vagina and in male dogs, inflammation of the penis and hair follicles can trigger licking behavior.

3. Anal Gland Problems

When a dog's anal glands near the anus become full or inflamed, they become uncomfortable and may start licking the area. If your dog is rubbing his anus on the ground or has an odor problem, the anal glands should be checked.

4. Allergies and Dietary Sensitivities

Certain foods or environmental allergens can cause itching in the genital area of ​​dogs.

5. Sexual Behaviors and Hormonal Changes

• Entering the First Heat: Bitches may exhibit more frequent vaginal licking behavior during their first heat.

• Testosterone and Sexual Stimulation: Male dogs may sometimes lick their genitals in response to hormonal stimulation.

6. Injuries or Traumas

The healing process after a blow, cut or surgical operation to the genital area may increase the dog's licking behavior.

When to Visit a Vet?

If your dog licks himself or his genital area more than usual, a veterinary check-up is necessary if:

• If there is redness, sores or crusting on the skin,

• If your dog seems restless or feels stressed due to constant licking,

• If abnormal discharge, very bad smells or pus is seen,

• If hairless areas have formed due to licking,

• If your dog is urinating more than usual or is having difficulty urinating.

Conclusion

Licking themselves and their genitals is usually part of normal hygiene habits in dogs. However, if this behavior becomes excessive or if there are accompanying symptoms, it is important to consult a specialist. Don't neglect regular veterinary check-ups to get the most accurate information about your dog and to prevent discomfort.