When a Shih Tzu Excessively

Licks Non-Toy Objects

Overview

In the intriguing world of canine behavior, one habit that often baffles and concerns pet parents is the excessive licking of non-toy objects. Whether it's obsessively licking furniture, carpets, or even walls, this behavior goes beyond a Shih Tzu's usual playful interactions with their environment. This article covers the multifaceted reasons behind such behavior, from anxiety and boredom to nutritional deficiencies and health issues. We also offer practical solutions and strategies for addressing it. Let's dive in. 

The Reasons Why a Shih Tzu May Obsessively Lick Non-Toy Objects

When a Shih Tzu puppy or dog excessively licks non-toy objects, several factors, both behavioral and physical, might be at play including:

• Health Issues: Certain medical conditions can trigger unusual licking behavior. Gastrointestinal problems, nutritional deficiencies, neurological disorders, or other conditions could cause a dog to lick objects excessively.
• Anxiety and Stress: Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety and stress, which may manifest in compulsive behaviors like excessive licking. This can be a self-soothing mechanism for dogs to cope with their stress or anxiety. Top reasons for stress include moving to a new home, separation anxiety when home alone and a change to the household (loss or arrival of a family member).
• Boredom: Dogs that are not mentally or physically stimulated enough may turn to licking objects as a way to pass time and alleviate boredom.
• Curiosity and Exploration: Canines explore their world through their senses, and licking is a natural way for them to investigate new objects, textures, and tastes.
• Attention-Seeking Behavior: If a Shih Tzu learns that licking objects gets a reaction from their human, whether it’s positive or negative, they might continue this behavior to gain attention.
• Learned Habit: Sometimes, a dog's excessive licking of objects can become habitual, especially if it's been ongoing for a long time without intervention.
• Dental Issues or Nausea: Dogs might lick objects if they're experiencing discomfort in their mouth or if they feel nauseous, as a way to cope with these sensations.
• Canine Compulsive Disorder: In some cases, excessive licking can be a sign of a canine compulsive disorder, where the dog engages in repetitive behaviors to an extreme extent.

Each of these reasons requires a different approach in terms of management and resolution. By understanding the root cause of the behavior, dog owners can take appropriate steps to address it effectively, improving the quality of life for both the dog and the owner.

How to Address Licking of Non-Toy Objects

Addressing a Shih Tzu puppy or dog's excessive licking of non-toy objects involves understanding and tackling the underlying causes. Here are strategies for each identified reason:

Health Issues: If licking of household items is excessive, it's recommended to bring your Shih Tzu to the veterinarian. Issues that the vet will rule out include gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis, nutritional deficiencies, nausea or upset stomach, liver disease, and endocrine disorders like hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease. 

Dental Issues: Maintain good oral hygiene for your Shih Tzu and bring them for regular dental check-ups. If you suspect serious dental issues such as decay or infection, make an appointment with the vet right away. 

Anxiety and Stress: Provide a safe and quiet space for your Shih Tzu; in a chaotic household, it can be a good idea to have a canine playpen. Work to maintain a consistent routine to give your Shih Tzu a sense of security.

Curiosity and Exploration: Provide plenty of toys and engaging activities to keep your little guy or gal mentally stimulated. Keep a good collection of toys that keep your Shih Tzu busy, like interactive toys and chew toys. Allow your sweetie to explore in a controlled environment where you can redirect inappropriate licking.

Attention-Seeking Behavior: Do not give attention (positive or negative) when your Shih Tzu licks objects. Instead, ignore it until they stop. Use positive reinforcement to reward them when they engage in appropriate behavior.

Canine Compulsive Disorder: Work on behavior modification techniques, which may include desensitization and counterconditioning. Professional Intervention: In severe cases, a combination of behavior modification and medication may be necessary, as advised by a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist. Addressing Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD) involves behavior modification techniques such as desensitization and counterconditioning:

• Desensitization: Gradually expose the dog to the anxiety-inducing trigger in a controlled manner, starting with low-stress situations and slowly increasing exposure to build tolerance.
• Counterconditioning: Change the dog's emotional response to the trigger by associating it with positive experiences, like offering special treats or toys during stressful situations.

The techniques for addressing CCD require consistency and patience and are most effective when combined with a stable routine and adequate mental and physical stimulation. In severe cases, a veterinarian may prescribe medication to manage anxiety, which should be used alongside behavioral therapy for the best results.

A Final Note

There are lots of reasons why a Shih Tzu may pay too much attention to non-toy objects, but it is a behavior that should be addressed. With patience and a goal of going through each possible reason, this can be resolved, for a happier and more content canine family member.

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