Its always somewhere different at about this time of year. This year its his front leg half ways up. His skin is not dry and his fur is shiny. He's 14 years old and well cared for, like a family member. Spoiled rotten, I'd say. I put Bag balm on it and sometimes polysporin and bitter spray so he wont lick it but nothing works. I'm frustrated and looking for sugestion to try.
2007-02-21 17:07:29 · 13 answers · asked by JR 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
It is probably a lick granuloma. There are many things that may cause them, but there is no way to know for sure why they do it. He may be doing it because of a boredom (almost like OCD), but he may have other problems going on. The best treatment that I have seen was a elizabethan collar (they look like lampshades) and a combo of oral and topical antibiotics.
2007-02-21 17:35:04 · answer #1 · answered by iluvmyfrenchbulldogs 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There are many different reasons why a dog licks excessively in one spot until a "Lick Granuloma Skin Lesion" forms . Since this seems to happen around the same time each year, lack of exercise, indoor heat and boredom might be a few reasons. Allergies or pain in that particular joint could also be a cause. I would keep a close eye on his behavior. Does he seem to have pain in that area (limping on that leg)? Does he seem bored maybe due to the weather outside? Do you notice any other type of allergy related symptom? Although this may be difficult, try and pinpoint exactly "why" he is licking and then preventing it does become a little easier. Again, be observant to his overall behavior outside of the licking. If he seems to have joint pain in that leg, then you know that you need to relieve the pain so that he stops the licking. Please refer to both of the links below for more information on dog skin problems and dog lick granuloma's. Hope this helps.
2007-02-21 17:29:02 · answer #2 · answered by ladylulu 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with some of the other answers that the licking could be caused from boredom. I think exercising you dog daily and giving him something to do that stretches his mind would help. Mind games like hiding a toy and having him look for it or teaching him knew tricks.
Clicker training might help to teach him to stop licking since it is a habit now. Click whenever he stops then give him a treat. Google Clicker Training to learn more. There are several websites on the subject.
2007-02-21 18:29:39 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
My dog does this same thing. I took her to the vet and was given a cone for her to wear to keep her from licking and a cream to put on the area. My vet stated that it is more than likely a habit and she should wear the cone a week or so to help break the habit. This has helped. You can get a cone at any pet store such as Pet Smart. At first it is difficult and awkward for the dog to wear the cone but it will keep him from licking and he will learn to navigate with the cone on. I do not leave my dogs cone on all day. Just when I am unavailable to watch her (when I am at work or asleep). Hope this will help. Good luck.
2007-02-21 17:18:33 · answer #4 · answered by KristinaMaria 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's usually caused by boredom,which is why it's common at this time of year. Long boring winter,some dogs start licking to give themselves something to do and just start obsessing over it.
Try teaching him simple new tricks,even if he doesn't learn them he'll still benefit from the activity,something to relieve the boredom. Longer walks and extra playtime are good as well,if he's up to it. Maybe some new toys or treats as well. My daughter's border collie has this problem too and she recommended the above things (I called her when I saw your question here).
2007-02-21 17:46:26 · answer #5 · answered by wildyarrow 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
try a mild solution of water and cayanne pepper. i jst mixed a batch this evening in a spray bottle and it stopped my 4 month old pup from licking the walls and chewing the tree. make sure prior to putting it on the body, its not an open wound.
2007-02-21 18:28:50 · answer #6 · answered by hydez2002 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Tell your vet. I've heard that dogs are able to detect cancer in themselves or even humans sometimes. Something to do with sent . It might be a nice early warning before treatment gets to costly or worse pointless.
2007-02-21 17:25:05 · answer #7 · answered by Lupin IV 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Some very good ideas at these websites.
One suggested that you yell or yelp as your do does not want to hurt you, so therefore will stop licking himself. I think that sounds like your dog to me, best of luck to you
2007-02-21 17:25:45 · answer #8 · answered by Silly Girl 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This is a HOT SPOT.........sometimes out of boredom..........if you're not interested in bitter spray or an Elizabethian collar, then I would try to exercise him more as they normally will start a hot spot from boredom.
2007-02-21 17:13:06 · answer #9 · answered by Avon Lady 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
First ask your vet he knows what is best for your loved pet. I have never had a dog do that. Hope he is ok
2007-02-21 17:15:59 · answer #10 · answered by CHAEI 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋