Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my nervous dog air licking? Is it anxiety or allergies?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 21 lbs

My dog started air licking and it has become more frequent. She's a nervous little girl and barks a lot and is also very attached to me. When I tell her to stop she does, do you think it's anxiety causing it? She does it sometimes in the middle of the night.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Megan, DVM, CVA

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on May 7th, 2018

This could definitely be anxiety. It could also be allergies. I have seen dogs do this when they are really itchy. I would try to give her a calming chew like vetrisciecne composure and a calming collar like adaptil. You could also give her benadryl twice a day. See link below. If this isnlt helping, I would have your vet take a look at her to make sure nothing else is going on and to ensure she doesn't need to be on something a little stronger. I hope this helps!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button