Excessive licking and swallowing could be a sign of illness.
If your dog starts licking and swallowing excessively, this behavior can be worrying. There are several causes for this, including behavioral reasons and signs that your dog is sick. All are treatable, but if your dog starts licking and swallowing more than usual, it is important to consult a veterinarian to establish the correct cause.
Identification
Excessive licking and swallowing will be noticeable to any owner so should be very easy to identify. Some dogs will lick enthusiastically even when healthy because it is a way of exploring its surroundings and grooming itself. However, if you notice your dog licking more than usual or displaying other symptoms, such as coughing or gagging noises, it is important to see a vet as soon as possible.
Significance
Excessive licking and swallowing is important to monitor, as it could indicate a behavioral or health problem. It is important to diagnose the underlying cause quickly so your dog can be treated. As well as solving any causes, rapid diagnosis will also prevent your dog from licking or swallowing anything that could be potentially harmful. In some cases, excessive licking can keep the dog from eating or drinking as much as it needs to.
Causes
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can be a cause behind excessive licking, especially if the dog can't be interrupted. Other health-related causes of excessive licking and swallowing include tonsillitis and a sore throat. In this instance, the dog will also cough, although it will be a weak cough compared to the hacking cough that is usually displayed with conditions like kennel cough.
Prevention/Solution
One cause of tonsillitis is a large amount of tartar on the teeth. The bacteria travel from the mouth to the throat, which leads to an infection. Therefore, ensuring your dog's teeth are kept clean is a good preventative measure. Tonsillitis may also occur after a bout of vomiting. Veterinary attention is needed to manage both tonsillitis and OCD. For the latter, a mixture of medication and training will help tame your dog's behavior.
Considerations
Dogs that suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder usually develop this behaviour after being neglected or abused. Exposure to situations that cause high levels of stress or fear can trigger OCD. The condition is also genetic and, as Pet Wave explains, it is recommended that dogs with OCD not be used for breeding.
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