Reasons why your dog ‘licks’ the air

Table of contents

1. They smelled something very interesting

2. Stress or nerves

3. They have an itch on an inaccessible part of their body

4. Their teeth hurt

5. Obsessive compulsive disorders

6. Nausea or digestive problems

They have smelt something very interesting

As you know, the sense of smell is the most developed sense in dogs, and its power is far superior to ours. But, in addition to an almost infallible nose, these animals have the so-called vomeronasal or Jacobson's organ, with which they are able to detect pheromones and chemical substances imperceptible to the human nose. This is why, when they smell something interesting coming from another animal, such as the urine of another dog, they open their mouths, retract their lips, lick the air and sometimes even clack their teeth together as a way of transporting the smell to the vomeronasal organ. This natural reflex, which is also present in other mammals, is known as the Flehmen response. So, if your furry friend licks the air when they smell another dog or their urine or faeces, there's no need to worry, they're just trying to pick up that chemical information to find out the animal's condition and a whole host of other incredible facts, like how long ago they were there. Fascinating, isn't it?

Due to stress or nerves

Occasionally, your dog may become anxious on occasion due to some external agent that makes them uncomfortable: perhaps a strong smell, a noise, being left alone, a very messy place, etc. When dogs become nervous, they may lick the air and other objects (or even themselves) to calm down. The fact is that the action of licking constantly and rhythmically is very relaxing for them, as it causes a release of endorphins. To find out if your pet is sucking the air out of nervousness, observe their environment and their other symptoms, which may include retracted ears, whimpering, yawning or trembling. Remember that it is very important to create a pleasant environment and lifestyle for your dog. Even so, if your dog becomes stressed by a specific situation, we recommend offering them a kong-type toy, filled with food, to channel their anxiety. On the other hand, we remind you of the importance of training and socialisation to keep your dog healthy, calm and balanced. If you have any doubts or the air-licking behaviour worsens, consult an ethologist.

Itches an inaccessible part of the body

Dogs use their tongues, teeth and nails to scratch their bodies, which can itch either occasionally, as happens to people, or because of skin problems such as dermatitis, wounds or even parasites. In any case, if your dog is itching a part of their anatomy that they cannot reach with their mouth or paws, they may start to wriggle around while licking the air. In this case, if you know your dog well, you may be able to read their intentions and be able to scratch where they itch relieving their discomfort. In any case, don't forget to check their skin regularly to rule out problems and diseases. If you notice any thickening, wounds, flaking or any other alteration that catches your attention, consult your vet.

Your pet's teeth hurt

You probably know that toothache is very, very uncomfortable. If your dog suffers from it, they may become very nervous, activating these licks at the air and other objects as a way of calming themselves and reducing the pain. When a dog sucks the air because of dental problems, you will notice other signs such as trying to scratch their mouth with their paw or eating less. Taking care of your dog's dental health is very important, as from the age of 3 years these animals begin to accumulate tartar on their teeth, which can lead, without proper maintenance, to different periodontal problems and diseases in general. We recommend that you keep an eye on your furry friend's teeth with regular veterinary check-ups. Don't let it pass you by!

Obsessive compulsive disorders

Under-stimulated dogs with poor socialisation and inappropriate lifestyles can develop all sorts of behavioural problems, such as canine OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessive behaviours in dogs can range from constant tail chasing, to licking their paws or even the air. In this case, we are talking about long-term behaviour, which persists over time and even intensifies. If this happens to your furry friend, you should find out the source of their anxiety and work with an ethologist to help them feel good again.

Is nauseous or has digestive problems

Your dog may try to lick the air if they feel sick to their stomach. Nausea in dogs can be brought on by travelling in a car, eating something that has upset their stomach, intolerances and allergies, viruses and other illnesses. In these cases you may find that your pet gags, drools and their appetite suffers. If this is an occasional occurrence, it will usually resolve itself, although we recommend that you avoid giving your dog food until it is better. If the symptoms persist, there is vomiting, diarrhoea, they stop eating and seem lethargic, see your vet as soon as possible, as there is likely to be a gastrointestinal problem that needs to be treated.

Caring for and understanding your furry friend at all times can be a challenge. Now you know that trying to suck air is a common and natural behaviour for dogs as long as it happens only time to time. However, if your pet keeps licking the air, becomes nervous and there are other physical or behavioural symptoms that interfere with their normal life, it is best to consult your vet as soon as possible.