My dog licks and nibbles the comforter at night. Why and what to do?

Object sucking (or nibbling) is common in dogs, typically seen in dogs that were [weaned](https://www.petcoach.co/article/weaning-puppies) too early. It is a self-soothing behavior, much like thumb sucking in small children. There is no harm to your dog to engage in this behavior unless she begins to ingest the blankets. Restricting access may actually increase her stress, but you can try to restrict access to the particular room if she has a favorite blanket. If that isn't possible, [calming aids](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-calming-aids), such as[ pheromone products](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-calming-aids), may be effective in easing any stress or anxiety causing her to nibble. Try to determine and reduce or eliminate the offending stimulus if there is one.

Many times this is a sign of contentment or self soothing. It can also be an attempt at mutual grooming. In general, as long as she is not being destructive, the behavior is nothing to worry about. I hope this helps.

This is typically associated with the nursing behavior seen in puppies. Adults dogs who do this behavior do it for comfort, as it mimics how puppies nurse from their mother. You can take away her access to blankets to stop her from doing this. If it isn't possible to take away her access, I would distract her immediately when she tries to do this behavior. Try to engage her play or give her a toy filled with a treat to move her attention away from the blanket. Encourage any behavior that is positive and doesn't involve sucking on blankets with praise, attention, and treats.

Thank you for contacting Pet Coach with your question about Lucky. Licking objects can be a sign of nausea in dogs, and it may be he isn't feeling well leading to the licking. I'm sure it's pretty annoying for you to hear this licking over and over, and if he's not showing any other signs, I'd put him in a crate or keep him out of your room for the night so you can get some sleep. In the morning, if he's still doing this behavior, then I would take him into the vet to get checked out. Best of luck, I hope this helps.

My dog did this also. He was taken away from his mother very young so this seems to be a nursing reflex. Mine did it when he was happy and cuddly. It's not a problem unless Levi is eating pieces of the blankets or bedding. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Levi.

This may be comfort to him (like a baby with a pacifier). I would make sure that he has a clear bill of health and if so, leave toys that are appropriate to nibble on. Do not allow him to nibble on you. When he tries to, give him a toy or something else and tell him no. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Some dogs can exhibit OCD like tendencies. It sounds like Chechen may be one of those dogs. It can occur due to anxiety or boredom. Try to evaluate if Cheech is nervous or anxious typically. Or if you can distract him from licking with play time. Some dogs can be redirected others may not. In some cases you can discuss with your veterinarian and behavior modifying medications can be helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.