When a dog suddenly begins licking and swallowing excessively, it can be alarming and confusing for pet owners.
While occasional licking is normal, sudden excessive licking paired with frequent swallowing may point to an underlying health issue that needs attention.
We outline the common causes of sudden excessive licking and swallowing in dogs, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Licking and Swallowing Excessively Suddenly — Why It Happens
Dogs may lick and swallow excessively due to irritation in the mouth or throat, gastrointestinal upset, nausea, allergies, or even anxiety. Sometimes, it’s as simple as something stuck between their teeth, while other times it can signal more serious issues like acid reflux, oral infections, or ingestion of toxins.
Because the symptom appears suddenly, it often suggests an acute trigger rather than a long-term condition.
Sudden Excessive Licking and Swallowing in Dogs: Common Causes
Something Stuck in the Mouth or Throat
One of the most immediate reasons a dog may start licking and swallowing suddenly is the presence of a foreign object.
Small items such as grass, bones, sticks, or even pieces of toys can become lodged in the mouth, teeth, or throat.
When this happens, dogs may try to lick repeatedly and swallow in an attempt to dislodge the irritant. Pet owners may also notice pawing at the mouth, gagging, or sudden discomfort.
This can be very serious if the object poses a choking hazard or causes injury to the oral tissues.
Read more: Dog Licking Floor Excessively Suddenly (What it really means)
Acid Reflux and Gastrointestinal Upset
Dogs that experience acid reflux or sudden stomach irritation may lick excessively and swallow as a response to nausea.
Gastric acid moving upward into the esophagus causes discomfort, which dogs try to manage by swallowing more often.
Pet owners might also notice pacing, drooling, grass-eating, or vomiting. These signs often occur after meals or during the night when the stomach is empty. Chronic reflux can lead to esophageal damage if not managed promptly.
Dental Disease or Oral Infections
Dental problems like gum infections, tooth decay, or mouth ulcers can trigger sudden licking and swallowing.
Pain and inflammation in the mouth make dogs lick excessively to soothe discomfort.
Infections can produce excess saliva, which leads to repeated swallowing. Dogs may also resist eating hard foods, chew on one side of the mouth, or show bad breath along with the licking behavior.
Nausea from Toxins or Dietary Indiscretion
If a dog has eaten something toxic or unsuitable, such as spoiled food, plants, or chemicals, nausea often follows. Excessive licking and swallowing can be an early warning sign that vomiting or diarrhea is coming.
Owners may notice restlessness, drooling, or attempts to eat grass. Because toxin ingestion can be life-threatening, this cause requires urgent veterinary assessment.
Allergic Reactions
Sudden allergic reactions can cause irritation in the throat and mouth, leading to licking and swallowing. Food allergies, insect stings, or contact allergens may all trigger this response.
Other signs may include itching, hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing. Severe reactions should be treated as emergencies, especially if there is swelling around the face or airway.
Anxiety and Compulsive Behavior
In some cases, dogs lick and swallow excessively due to stress or anxiety. This can appear suddenly during a thunderstorm, when left alone, or after a stressful event.
Unlike medical causes, anxious licking often appears alongside other behaviors such as pacing, whining, or hiding. Over time, it can become a compulsive behavior that requires behavioral support.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Suddenly Licking and Swallowing Excessively
If your dog starts licking and swallowing suddenly, first check their mouth to see if something is stuck between the teeth, tongue, or throat. Remove anything visible and safe to take out by hand, but never attempt to reach deep into the throat.
If nothing is found, observe for signs of nausea or distress. Offering fresh water can sometimes help flush out mild irritants. If your dog appears nauseous, feeding a small, bland meal such as boiled chicken and rice may ease stomach upset.
Keep your dog calm and monitor for additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, gagging, or changes in appetite. If the behavior persists beyond a few hours or worsens, veterinary evaluation is essential.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog shows repeated swallowing combined with choking, gagging, or difficulty breathing. These may signal a foreign body in the throat or a severe allergic reaction.
Seek veterinary care promptly if the excessive licking and swallowing are paired with vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or signs of toxin ingestion. Even if symptoms seem mild, sudden onset behaviors often indicate a more urgent problem.
Dogs with ongoing issues such as weight loss, refusal to eat, or worsening bad breath should also be examined for possible dental or gastrointestinal disease. Early diagnosis ensures better treatment outcomes.
Read more: Dog Licking Excessively (When to worry)
Key Takeaway
Sudden excessive licking and swallowing in dogs can range from a minor irritation to a serious medical condition. While it may sometimes resolve on its own, it should never be ignored when paired with other symptoms.
Pet owners should act quickly to check for foreign objects, watch for signs of nausea or toxicity, and seek veterinary help when needed. With timely care and attention, most dogs recover well and return to their normal happy selves.