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Why is my dog licking paws, lips, and furniture? Anxiety or allergies?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 54 lbs

My four year goldendoodle seems to have a dry mouth because he frequently licks his lips and it sounds pasty. He also very frequently keeps licking all of his paws to the point that his coat has changed color. In addition, he licks my leather sofa and whatever else he chooses, mostly fabric. He won't let me out of his site. Is this anxiety?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 11th, 2017

The behaviors you are describing in Sydney could be due to anxiety or to allergies. A very common signs of skin allergies in dogs is excessive licking of the paws. Licking the couch and other things could just be a compulsion that he has developed from licking his feet so much. I would recommend having him checked out by your vet to see if allergies are the underlying problem. If they are your vet may recommend switching my food or starting an anti-allergy medication.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on August 19th, 2019
It could be a behavioral issue or it could be caused by allergies or skin issues. Some dogs just like to lick, and as long as it doesn't damage the skin or you aren't battling an infection, it isn't always harmful.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 20th, 2018
This is an unusual behavior and is probably just due to anxiety in your dog. When he does this behavior try to redirect his attention to something else, like a toy or a walk outside. Walk him regularly several times a day to help decrease his anxious energy. And be sure that he is not eating any of the things he is licking because he could get a foreign body/blockage which could be very serious. You may also want to try some bitter apple spray to discourage him from licking on things.

I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 7th, 2020
Any continued abnormal symptoms (longer than 24 hours) warrants a vet exam. I cannot tell you what is wrong with him just by your description as those symptoms are very vague but it sounds like he may have developed an obsessive compulsive disorder. I suggest you get him examined by your vet as soon as you can to rule out any underlying medical issues. If there is no underlying medical problem found then you can speak to your vet about possibly trying some anti-anxiety medications.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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