Pets are fascinating creatures that often engage in peculiar behaviors that leave us puzzled. Why do they chase their tails? What causes them to sneeze during playtime? If you’ve ever snuggled with your dog in bed or observed them curled up on your couch pillows, you’ve probably witnessed them giving the pillows a curious lick. This behavior can sometimes turn your pillow into a sticky mess. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why dogs have a fascination with licking objects, particularly pillows.
Why Do Dogs Lick?
Dogs have a unique way of perceiving the world around them. Unlike humans, they rely heavily on their sense of smell and taste to gather information about their environment. Licking is a natural behavior for dogs, as it allows them to explore and understand the objects they encounter. Their tongues help them understand the texture, taste, and form of various items. Licking also helps dogs gather information through their sense of taste, which is closely linked to their sense of smell.
Image Credit: Lubo Ivanko, Shutterstock
Why Do Dogs Lick Our Pillows?
Now that we understand why dogs lick objects in general, let’s explore why they might have a particular interest in our pillows. If your dog occasionally gives your pillows a lick or two, they are likely just curious about the peculiar odor and unique texture of the pillows. However, if your dog consistently targets your pillows with their tongue, it may be indicative of other motivations that need to be addressed.
1. Your dog has separation anxiety.
Separation anxiety is a common issue among dogs, especially for those with busy owners. Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit various symptoms, such as crying or destructive behavior when left alone. In some cases, dogs may turn to your clothing and belongings, including pillows, as a form of comfort. Your pillow, in particular, carries your scent, making it a suitable substitute for your presence. If you find your dog snuggled up with your pillow or notice it soaked with their saliva, it could be a sign that they are trying to console themselves.
Image Credit: Pixabay
2. They like or need the salt from your pillow.
Dietary reasons could also explain why dogs lick pillows. Pillows tend to accumulate sweat and dead skin cells, making them salty. If your dog has a sodium deficiency or simply enjoys the taste of salt, they may be inclined to lick your pillow. The strong scent of your pillow could attract their attention, leading them to lick it in search of the salt they desire.
3. Your dog might have obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Similar to humans, dogs can develop obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Dogs with OCD may exhibit repetitive behaviors, often to the point of causing physical harm. This can manifest in various ways, including excessive licking of objects such as pillows. If you suspect your dog has OCD, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for proper evaluation and guidance.
Image Credit: Kelsey Ellen, Shutterstock
How to Stop Your Dog From Licking Your Pillow
If you prefer not to let your dog continue licking your pillows, there are several approaches you can take to discourage this behavior and maintain better hygiene.
Identify the Reason for the Behavior
Firstly, it’s crucial to identify the underlying reason for your dog’s behavior. Understanding their needs or potential sources of anxiety will help you develop a targeted approach to address the licking behavior. If the behavior persists or worsens, consult with a veterinarian for further assistance.
Image Credit: Pixabay
Supplement or Fix that Reason
Once you have identified the reason, take steps to correct it within your environment. For separation anxiety, you may need to implement training methods to help your dog become comfortable with longer periods of alone time. If the behavior is related to their diet, consider evaluating their food and supplementation to ensure they have a balanced diet.
Take Away Their Access to Your Pillows
Sometimes, the simplest solution is to remove the possibility of your dog expressing the behavior. If your dog mainly focuses on licking your pillows, consider keeping your bedroom door closed or storing the pillows in a closet or drawer when you’re away.
Image By: Kristesoro, Shutterstock
Give Your Dog a Better Alternative to Licking Your Pillow
If you prefer not to hide your pillows regularly, you can try distracting your dog with alternative activities. If they are seeking the taste of salt, provide them with bones or chew toys that contain sodium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can dogs get sick from licking pillows?
A: It’s unlikely for dogs to get sick solely from licking pillows, but it’s best to discourage excessive licking to maintain good hygiene.
Q: How do I know if my dog has separation anxiety?
A: Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, or urination when left alone. Consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and guidance.
Q: Should I punish my dog for licking my pillows?
A: It’s not recommended to punish your dog for licking behavior. Instead, focus on addressing the underlying cause and redirect their attention to more appropriate activities.
Conclusion
While dogs licking pillows might seem harmless or endearing at first, it’s essential to address this behavior to maintain hygiene and prevent potential issues. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior, you can implement appropriate training, make dietary adjustments if necessary, and provide alternative activities for your dog. Remember that consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when modifying your dog’s behavior.
Related Reads:
- Why Does My Dog Lick the Floor? 4 Reasons for This Behavior
- Why Does My Dog Lick Me? 10 Reasons for This Behavior
Featured Image Credit: Izemphoto, Shutterstock
Keywords: dogs, lick pillows, canine behavior, separation anxiety, sodium deficiency, obsessive-compulsive disorder, dog training.