Vet explain reason dogs lick their lips – not because they’re hungry

Have you noticed your dog lick their lips while relaxing at home or ahead of eating their dinner? Despite what you might have been told, or led to believe, it doesn’t mean they’re simply hungry.

The behaviour is actually something pet owners should monitor very closely — particularly as a vet has cautioned the behaviour and said it is likely being done for a medical reason. Understanding our pets can be incredibly difficult given their inability to communicate with us directly and tell us what’s wrong.

Dogs, however, use specific behaviours and their body to express their feelings. This is why monitoring what your four-legged companion is doing can prove extremely valuable for owners and help provide them with an insight into what they’re thinking and feeling.

Once owners identify behaviours, they’ll be far better positioned to understand what they’re trying to tell you.

According to Dr Megan Petroff, a residency trained behavior vet, the if your dog is constantly licking their lips, it could be a sign or stress or a health condition.

What does it mean when dogs lick their lips?

Dr Megan said: “What does it mean when your dog does this? Is this normal? I’m a behaviour veterinarian, and I’ll tell you. Lip licking can indicate stress.

“It can also indicate upset stomach. If you notice your dog is licking their lips, maybe they’re hard swallowing, maybe this happens around mealtimes, they could have acid reflux.

“This is something you should talk to your veterinarian about.”

According to Pet MD, lip licking could be a symptom of gastroenteritis, seizures, pancreatitis, kidney failure, liver disease, allergies or age-related decline.

When should dog owners be concerned about lick lipping?

Pet MD encourages pet owners who suddenly realise their dog is licking their lips out of nowhere to take immidiate action as they may have a health issue.

The site said: “If they were eating a bone and then begin pawing at their mouth and lip licking, there’s a good chance they might have something in their teeth or stuck in the throat, requiring help.

“Along with lip licking, pet parents should also keep track of and watch for the duration of the behavior, the frequency and physical signs, like lethargy, lack of appetite, excessive salivation, and vomiting.”