Over grooming in dogs can be a sign of physical and mental stress. Over grooming can range from excessive licking, scratching, and biting of their fur, to chewing, digging, and excessive shedding. It can also be an indication of underlying medical issues such as allergies, parasites, or skin infections. By understanding the signs and symptoms of over grooming, pet owners can help their dogs find relief from this behavior and reduce their stress.
What is Over Grooming?
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Over grooming, also known as “psychogenic alopecia”, is a condition in which a dog excessively licks, chews, or bites at their own fur. It is usually caused by a combination of psychological and physiological factors, such as stress, boredom, allergies, and skin infections. Over grooming can lead to bald patches, skin infection, and in extreme cases, sepsis.
Signs of Over Grooming in Dogs
The signs of over grooming in dogs can vary depending on the underlying cause. It is important to be aware of the potential signs of over grooming in order to identify the condition quickly and seek appropriate treatment.
Excessive Licking, Chewing, and Biting
One of the most common signs of over grooming in dogs is excessive licking, chewing, and biting at their fur. If your dog is licking, chewing, or biting at their fur more than what is considered normal grooming, it could be a sign of over grooming.
Bald Patches
In severe cases of over grooming, your dog may develop bald patches due to the excessive licking, chewing, and biting. These bald patches can appear anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the legs, belly, and back.
Redness and Irritation
The excessive licking, chewing, and biting can lead to redness and irritation of the skin. The area may also be swollen and may have a discharge or crusting.
Behavioral Changes
Over grooming can be a sign of underlying emotional distress, such as anxiety or depression. As such, if you notice your dog exhibiting behavioral changes, such as becoming more withdrawn or aggressive, it could be an indication of over grooming.
Causes of Over Grooming in Dogs
The exact cause of over grooming in dogs can be difficult to identify, but there are several potential factors that may contribute to the condition.
Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are the most common causes of over grooming in dogs. Dogs who are feeling stressed or anxious may start licking, chewing, or biting themselves as a way of self-soothing.
Boredom
Dogs who are not provided with enough mental and physical stimulation may start to groom themselves excessively out of boredom.
Allergies
Allergies can cause dogs to lick, chew, and bite at their fur in an attempt to relieve the itching and irritation.
Skin Infections
Skin infections, such as mange or ringworm, can lead to over grooming as the dog attempts to relieve the itching and irritation caused by the infection.
Treatment for Over Grooming in Dogs
The treatment for over grooming in dogs will depend on the underlying cause. If the cause is emotional, such as stress or anxiety, then behavior modification may be necessary to help alleviate the emotional distress. It is also important to provide your dog with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to help prevent boredom.
If the cause is physical, such as an allergy or skin infection, then treatment of the underlying condition is necessary. This may include medications, dietary changes, or supplements. It is also important to keep the affected area clean and free of any irritants.
In some cases, it may be necessary to use anti-lick products, such as bitter sprays or bandages, to help break the licking habit. If your dog is over grooming due to boredom, providing them with interactive toys, such as food puzzles, can help to keep them entertained and distracted.
In severe cases, it may be necessary to seek the help of a professional behaviorist or veterinarian. They can provide more specific advice on how best to treat your dog’s condition.
#### Common Myths About Over Grooming in Dogs
1. Over grooming is only caused by fleas or other parasites – This is false, as over grooming can be caused by a variety of factors, including anxiety, boredom, allergies, and hormonal imbalances.
2. Over grooming is only a problem for certain breeds – This is false, as any breed of dog can exhibit signs of over grooming.
3. Over grooming is only a problem for certain genders – This is false, as both male and female dogs can exhibit signs of over grooming.
4. Over grooming is a sign of a happy, healthy dog – This is false, as over grooming can be a sign of an underlying physical or psychological issue. It is important to consult a veterinarian or behaviorist if you observe your dog over grooming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does over grooming look like in dogs?
Answer: Over grooming in dogs can look like excessive licking or chewing of the fur or skin, which can lead to bald spots, scabbing, sores, and infection.
What are the consequences of over grooming in dogs?
Answer: Over grooming can lead to physical discomfort and pain, secondary skin infections, and behavioral issues such as anxiety or stress. In severe cases, it can even lead to self-mutilation.
