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My dog is licking everything and threw up hair. Is he sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 3 years and 6 months old | 5 lbs

All night he's been licking everything. He sleeps on my bed so he's been licking the bed sheets, he licked my hands, I put him on the floor and he licked the floor, it's not like a normal dog licking behavior. He's been licking uncontrollably. He also threw up and it looked like most of it was his hair. He had never behaved this way, he has water, I gave him treats, I gave him food and his behavior is normal apart from the licking everything. I'm not sure on what to do..

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 20th, 2017

It sounds like Patron is licking constantly because he feels nauseous. This can definitely be caused by a foreign body or obstruction as well as other causes of intestinal upset (such as pancreatitis, parasites, or dietary indiscretion). I recommend having him seen by a vet to determine exactly what is making him nauseous, and receive fluids and anti-nausea medications if necessary. I hope this helps and wish you and Oatron well!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Rebeccah Wood
Licensed Veterinary Technician, Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist
Published on July 28th, 2017
Hello there! The behavior that you're seeing from Fergus could very well indicate nausea - many dogs do feel the need to lick everything just before they vomit. Try to keep him away from anything that he might accidentally ingest, like loose pieces of carpet or small toys. There are also other potential causes for this behavior, such as sores or pain in the mouth. If Fergus continues this behavior or vomits more than twice, please consider bringing him to the vet for evaluation. I hope he feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on April 10th, 2020
The episode of licking could have indicated Reed was nauseous. Just like humans, there are many many causes of vomiting and some of the causes can be very serious. Any pet vomiting beyond 24 hours should be examined by the veterinarian. Here is a link about vomiting which may have helpful information:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/vomiting-in-dogs/

I hope your pup feels better quickly!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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