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Excessive Licking

Annette's picture
Posted April 8th, 2009 by Annette
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Hi, I thought I had sent this before so apologise if I have but cannot find the response. I have a 7 month old female Pomeranian X Chihuahua. She constantly wants to lick whenever she has contact with anyone holding or patting her. She will even instigate sitting on my lap but will want to lick. Does anyone know why she does this and how I can stop this annoying habit. thanks Annette

Comments

re: Excessive Licking

Aidan's picture
On April 9th, 2009 Aidan says:

I'll tell you why every dog does every voluntary behavior - because it works for him or her.

I think you will probably get a good result by simply marking the unwanted behavior by saying "too bad" in a neutral tone of voice, then placing her on the floor and ignoring her for 10-15 seconds before attempting to pick her up or pat her again.

Say "too bad" immediately, as soon as she starts licking. Then immediately place her on the floor (gently) and ignore her completely for 10-15 seconds. The timing is important.

When she is not licking, give her attention and affection.

Make it very "on and off". If she isn't licking, she gets attention, as soon as she starts licking say "too bad" and the attention is over completely for 10-15 seconds. Good timing gives faster results. Don't expect her to make the connection immediately though.

In some rare cases some dogs do have what could be considered a medical need to lick the salts from our skin. This is very rare, but the issue could be raised with your vet.

Regards,
Aidan
http://www.positivepetzine.com

GREAT advice for me also!!

3doxiemom's picture
On May 4th, 2009 3doxiemom says:

2 of my doxies do this also! I'm going to start this training immediately! Thanks so much!

3doxiemom - Learning to do it right this time!

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