Why do dogs lick their lips when they’re not eating?

Dogs lick their lips for a variety of reasons, and while it can sometimes be a harmless behavior, it can also indicate underlying issues that require attention. Understanding why dogs lick their lips when they’re not eating involves examining both behavioral and physiological factors. Below is a detailed explanation of the possible reasons, along with practical advice and insights.

1. Communication and Stress Signals
Lip licking is often a form of communication in dogs. It is a calming signal, a term coined by dog behaviorist Turid Rugaas, which dogs use to communicate discomfort, stress, or anxiety. When a dog feels uneasy in a situation, such as during a tense interaction with another dog or when being scolded by their owner, they may lick their lips to signal that they are not a threat and to diffuse the tension. This behavior is similar to yawning or turning away, which are also calming signals.

2. Anticipation or Hunger
Dogs may lick their lips in anticipation of food, even if they are not currently eating. This is often seen when they smell something delicious or see their owner preparing their meal. The act of lip licking in this context is a reflexive response to the anticipation of eating, as their salivary glands become activated.

3. Nausea or Digestive Discomfort
Lip licking can also be a sign of nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort. If a dog is feeling unwell, they may lick their lips excessively as a response to the queasy sensation. This can occur due to motion sickness, eating something inappropriate, or underlying health issues such as acid reflux or pancreatitis. If lip licking is accompanied by drooling, vomiting, or a lack of appetite, it is important to consult a veterinarian.

4. Dental or Oral Health Issues
Dental problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay, or oral injuries, can cause a dog to lick their lips frequently. The discomfort or pain in their mouth may lead to this behavior as they try to soothe the affected area. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent such issues.

5. Dehydration or Dry Mouth
A dry mouth or dehydration can also cause a dog to lick their lips. This is their way of trying to moisten their mouth. Ensuring your dog has access to fresh water at all times and monitoring their hydration levels, especially during hot weather or after exercise, is crucial.

6. Behavioral Conditioning
In some cases, dogs may lick their lips as a learned behavior. For example, if a dog receives attention or treats when they lick their lips, they may repeat the behavior to gain rewards. This is more common in dogs that have been inadvertently reinforced for the behavior by their owners.

7. Neurological or Medical Conditions
In rare cases, excessive lip licking can be a symptom of a neurological disorder or other medical conditions, such as seizures or compulsive disorders. If the behavior is persistent, repetitive, and unrelated to any obvious triggers, it is important to seek veterinary advice to rule out underlying health problems.

Practical Tips and Recommendations
- Observe the context in which your dog licks their lips. If it occurs during stressful situations, try to identify and reduce the stressors.
- Ensure your dog has a balanced diet and access to fresh water to prevent dehydration and digestive issues.
- Maintain regular dental care, including brushing your dog’s teeth and scheduling professional cleanings.
- Avoid reinforcing the behavior unintentionally by not rewarding your dog with attention or treats when they lick their lips excessively.

When to Seek Professional Help
If lip licking is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in appetite, consult your veterinarian immediately. Additionally, if the behavior is persistent and you cannot identify a clear cause, a professional evaluation is recommended to rule out medical or behavioral issues.

In summary, lip licking in dogs is a multifaceted behavior that can stem from communication, stress, health issues, or learned habits. By understanding the context and potential causes, you can better address the behavior and ensure your dog’s well-being. Regular veterinary check-ups and attentive care are key to maintaining your dog’s health and happiness.