Dogs can lick or scratch themselves occasionally, but when it becomes constant or excessive, it’s often a red flag for underlying health problems.
Persistent licking and scratching can leave the skin irritated, inflamed, and even infected if not addressed quickly.
We outline the common reasons why a dog may excessively lick and scratch, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Excessively Licking and Scratching — Why It Happens
Excessive licking and scratching in dogs are usually signs of discomfort, irritation, or pain. Common causes include skin allergies, fleas and parasites, infections, dry skin, or underlying systemic conditions.
In some cases, stress or anxiety can also drive a dog to over-groom and scratch themselves compulsively.
While the severity can range from mild irritation to more serious skin and health issues, it’s important for owners to pay attention and address the root cause.
Dog Excessively Licking and Scratching: Common Causes
Allergies (Environmental or Food)
Allergies are one of the leading causes of chronic licking and scratching in dogs. Environmental allergies like pollen, dust mites, or mold can make a dog’s skin itchy, leading to relentless scratching.
Food allergies or sensitivities may also cause irritation, especially around the paws, face, and belly.
Dogs with allergies may chew at their feet, rub their faces against surfaces, or develop red, inflamed skin.
Left untreated, constant licking and scratching can cause hair loss and open sores, which often become infected. Because allergies are often ongoing, managing them may require long-term care.
Read more: Dog Excessively Licking and Panting (What it could mean)
Fleas and Parasites
Flea bites are notorious for causing intense itching in dogs. Even a single flea can cause a dog to scratch excessively, and in cases of flea allergy dermatitis, the reaction is even more severe.
Other parasites like mites (causing mange) can also lead to extreme discomfort and obsessive scratching.
Dogs infested with fleas or mites may show hair loss, scabs, or areas of thickened skin.
Licking and biting often focus on the base of the tail, legs, or belly. Parasites must be treated quickly, not only for your dog’s comfort but also to prevent spreading to other pets.
Skin Infections (Bacterial or Fungal)
Bacterial and yeast infections commonly occur when the skin barrier is broken by scratching or licking. These infections can make the skin red, moist, and smelly.
Dogs may target one specific spot repeatedly, creating what is often referred to as a “hot spot.”
Infections can develop quickly, especially in warm or moist areas like between the toes or under skin folds.
If left untreated, they worsen rapidly and can cause severe discomfort. Persistent licking of one spot should always raise suspicion of an infection.
Dry Skin or Irritation
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from dry skin, especially in low-humidity environments or during colder months. Harsh shampoos or over-bathing can strip natural oils, leaving the skin itchy and flaky.
Dry skin often leads to generalized scratching and licking, but without the redness or sores seen in infections or allergies.
However, the constant irritation may eventually cause self-inflicted wounds, which can then become secondarily infected.
Stress and Anxiety
Sometimes the cause is not physical but behavioral. Dogs experiencing stress, boredom, or anxiety may excessively lick or scratch as a coping mechanism. This behavior is often compared to nail-biting in humans.
Stress-related licking usually centers around the paws or legs. Over time, dogs can develop thickened skin, hair loss, or sores in those areas. Addressing the underlying stress and providing mental stimulation are key in resolving this cause.
Hormonal or Underlying Health Issues
Endocrine conditions such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can also cause itchy, irritated skin. These conditions disrupt the skin’s health, making it more prone to infections and discomfort.
Dogs with hormonal imbalances may show additional symptoms such as changes in weight, coat thinning, or lethargy.
Because these issues are internal, they often require veterinary testing and specific treatment.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Excessively Licking and Scratching
If a dog is excessively licking and scratching, the first step is to check for obvious causes such as fleas, ticks, or irritated skin. Using a flea comb and examining common parasite zones can help rule out infestations.
Bathing your dog with a gentle, vet-approved shampoo can soothe irritation caused by dry skin or mild allergies.
Be careful not to over-bathe, as this can worsen dryness. Applying moisturizing sprays or conditioners may also help.
Keeping your dog’s environment clean, vacuuming regularly, and washing bedding can reduce allergen and parasite exposure. If food allergies are suspected, working with a vet to try an elimination diet may provide answers.
For stress-driven licking, enrichment through toys, puzzles, and regular exercise can help redirect your dog’s energy. In some cases, calming supplements or behavior modification may be recommended.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If licking and scratching persist for more than a few days, or if you notice redness, swelling, bald patches, or bleeding, it’s time to see a veterinarian. These symptoms often indicate infection or more severe irritation that requires medical treatment.
Sudden and severe itching, especially if accompanied by hives, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty, should be treated as an emergency. These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction.
If your dog seems restless at night, cannot stop scratching, or is losing weight or fur, these are also red flags that warrant a veterinary exam. Chronic cases almost always require professional diagnosis and treatment to prevent worsening.
Read more: Dog licking excessively (Discover what it might mean)
Key Takeaway
Excessive licking and scratching in dogs is more than just a bad habit—it’s often a sign that something is wrong.
Whether it’s allergies, parasites, infections, or stress, the behavior should not be ignored.
By identifying the cause early and providing appropriate care, owners can save their dogs from discomfort and prevent more serious health problems. When in doubt, reaching out to a veterinarian ensures the best outcome for a dog’s health and wellbeing.