Dogs who lick themselves constantly are telling you something. Either they're injured, ill, or feeling some sort of emotional distress. This can be troublesome to dog owners and embarrassing if it happens in front of company. Though this behavior is odd and embarrassing, owners should take it seriously. The solution may be as simple as showing the dog appropriate affection.
Instructions
Take the dog to the veterinarian. Compulsive licking may be a sign of an injury or problem such as ringworm, fleas, ticks or mange. It also can signal fear or other emotional distress.
Use a bandage. Some dogs stop licking once you apply a bandage to a wound but some lick even more because they don't want anything on their skin.
Use an Elizabethan collar. This device will allow treated wounds to heal and topical medicine to work without interference from the dog's licking or chewing.
Apply something bitter. If the dog's licking is compulsive and not a sign of injury or illness, apply lemon juice, cayenne pepper or the brand-name product Chew Guard to the spot. Ask your veterinarian which is best.
Examine your relationship with your dog. According to the King County, Washington Animal Care and Control, dogs lick when their owners or families give them too much attention, not enough attention or treat them abusively.
Change your behavior. If you are abusive, stop any form of physical punishment. Overattentive owners should reserve petting and other praise for the times when they are asserting themselves as the dog's master (on walks, after commands, etc.). According to the King County, Washington Animal Care and Control, neglectful owners can alleviate licking by spending more time with their dogs, especially by going on walks.