"Every dog owner will be familiar with the puppy eyes given at mealtimes. Whether it's a juicy piece of steak or a slice of cheese, nothing escapes their nose. But if they lick their lips it could be cause for concern, experts have warned. This behaviour doesn't always mean they're hungry - and it's actually a sign of stress or discomfort."
"'Pet owners are obsessed with understanding their dogs, and this sudden search surge proves just how much they care,' Matt Cayless, from UK pet marketing agency Bubblegum Search said. 'But while most assume it's hunger or something stuck in their teeth, it's often a sign of stress or discomfort.' Animal behaviourists say that lip licking is one of the clearest ways dogs communicate unease."
"According to Dogs Trust, it's normal for dogs to lick their lips after eating or drinking. Excess drooling may also cause your dog to lick their lips - but this could also be a sign of nausea or pain. 'Licking their lips may sometimes be a sign of a dry mouth in response to stress or anxiety,' the charity said. 'If you notice this, give your dog the space they need and speak to a vet or qualified behaviourist if you're concerned.'"
Frequent lip licking in dogs often signals stress, discomfort, nausea, pain, or dehydration rather than hunger. Owner searches about persistent lip licking have increased, showing high concern for canine behavior. Animal behaviourists identify lip licking as a common and clear sign of unease, frequently observed at the vet, in noisy places, or when encountering strangers. Lip licking can also follow eating, drinking, excess drooling, or a dry mouth caused by anxiety. Repeated mouth smacking while settling indicates self-soothing before sleep. Recommended responses include giving space, speaking softly, avoiding looming over the dog, maintaining routines, and consulting a vet or behaviourist when worried.
Read at Mail Online
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