If your dog keeps licking their privates after grooming, it can be worrying for any owner. While some mild grooming-related irritation is normal, persistent licking could signal discomfort, an injury, or even infection that needs attention.
We outline the common reasons why a dog keeps licking privates after grooming, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Keeps Licking Privates After Grooming — Why It Happens
Dogs may lick their privates after grooming due to skin irritation, minor nicks from clippers, allergic reactions to grooming products, or stress-related behaviors. Sometimes, swelling or redness from close trimming can make the area itchy. In other cases, an underlying urinary tract infection or skin condition may be aggravated by the grooming process.
The behavior can range from mild and temporary to intense and persistent, which may point to a more serious cause.
Because the genital area is sensitive, even small irritations can cause noticeable discomfort.
Dog Keeps Licking Privates After Grooming: Common Causes
Skin Irritation from Clippers or Scissors
Close trimming around sensitive areas can leave the skin mildly inflamed. The genital skin is thin, and if clippers run too hot or blades are dull, micro-abrasions may occur.
Owners may notice redness, swelling, or slight hair stubble that seems to bother the dog. This irritation can cause constant licking as the dog tries to soothe the discomfort.
If left unaddressed, the licking itself can worsen the irritation, creating a cycle of inflammation.
Read more: Dog Keeps Licking Privates After Spay (Here’s why)
Allergic Reaction to Shampoos or Sprays
Some grooming shampoos, conditioners, or finishing sprays contain fragrances or chemicals that irritate sensitive skin.
If your dog licks excessively after grooming, check whether new products were used. You may also notice hives, rash, or increased scratching in other areas.
Allergic reactions in the genital region can be particularly uncomfortable, leading to relentless licking.
Minor Nicks or Cuts
Even skilled groomers can accidentally cause small nicks, especially in wiggly dogs or those with matted fur.
These tiny wounds may not bleed much but can sting or itch as they heal. Dogs instinctively lick wounds, but in sensitive areas, this can quickly cause swelling and secondary infection.
Stress or Anxiety from Grooming
Grooming can be stressful, and some dogs display displacement behaviors afterward, such as excessive licking.
If your dog seems restless, avoids touch, or shows other signs of anxiety, the licking may be more behavioral than medical. Still, this can cause redness or infection over time.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Sometimes grooming coincides with an unrelated medical condition like a UTI.
Dogs with UTIs may lick their genitals frequently, strain to urinate, or have accidents indoors. Grooming might draw your attention to the area, making it seem related when it’s actually coincidental.
Skin Infection or Hot Spots
Moisture from bathing, combined with small skin breaks, can set the stage for bacterial or yeast overgrowth.
Hot spots in the genital region are painful, itchy, and can spread rapidly. If the skin looks moist, oozing, or foul-smelling, infection is likely.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Keeps Licking Privates After Grooming
First, examine the area gently under good lighting. Look for redness, swelling, cuts, or rash. If you see any wounds or open sores, prevent further licking by using an Elizabethan collar or recovery suit.
Switch to gentle, fragrance-free pet shampoos if you suspect a product reaction. Rinse thoroughly after bathing to remove any residue.
Apply a pet-safe soothing balm or spray to mild irritation — but never use human creams without veterinary guidance, as some ingredients are toxic to dogs.
Encourage rest and monitor for changes. If stress seems to be the trigger, give your dog a calm environment, treats, and reassurance after grooming sessions.
Keep the area clean and dry, and discourage licking as much as possible to prevent infection.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog’s licking is constant and the skin appears raw, veterinary care is needed. Persistent licking can quickly lead to infection.
Seek immediate vet attention if you notice pus, foul odor, swelling, or bleeding.
Contact your vet promptly if your dog is straining to urinate, passing blood, or showing signs of pain while urinating — these may indicate a UTI or urinary blockage.
Also, any sudden behavioral changes such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or signs of pain should not be ignored.
Read more: Dog Excessively Licking Privates (Should you worry?)
Key Takeaway
Licking privates after grooming is often a sign of irritation, minor injury, or allergic reaction, but it can also point to underlying medical issues like infection.
Gentle home care, product changes, and close monitoring can help in mild cases, but veterinary guidance is essential if symptoms persist or worsen.
By acting early, you can keep your dog comfortable, avoid complications, and make grooming a more positive experience for them in the future.