Why does my dog suck blankets for so long? How can I stop it?

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.

Yes, ive seen this in several dogs. I’ve found that the ones that were separated from their mother at a young age to do this more. Most dogs do grow out of this behavior after they are adults. Giving soft toys for them to cuddle and suck on will prevent some of this behavior on your blankets. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Sprocket.

While not common, sucking behavior in dogs is not unheard of. Some dogs suck on their flanks or legs, while others, like Oreo, suck on blankets or toys. For some dogs, this provides a means of comfort, but for others can indicate an underlying anxiety disorder. It is a bit unusual for this behavior to develop later in life, but try to determine if Oreo is experiencing any other changes that could indicate anxiety, such as pacing, panting, seeming agitated, or experiencing signs of stress when you leave the house. If he does seem to be showing signs of anxiety, consider taking Oreo to the vet to discuss behavioral training options, as well as medications. If he does not seem to be overly anxious, you can try using calming pheromone collars or diffusers (Adaptil is one example) to see if this behavior subsides. Otherwise, it is likely not a cause for any major concerns. I hope this helps and that all goes well!

Some dogs do like to nibble, lick, or suck on fabric as a self-soothing behavior - similar to a human toddler sucking her thumb. It's not likely that you will be able to make her stop doing this, so if it bothers you, I would recommend having her sleep in a dog bed or a crate in your bedroom with her own blanket. That way, she can lick and nibble as much as she wants to without disturbing you :)

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.

You can try distracting him or diverting his attention when he does it but this is just a relic of puppyhood that is left over. Most dogs will eventually stop this. It tends to not be pathologic unless he sucks on the same site repeatedly and causes a rash.I hope this at least points you in the right direction. Please post again with any further questions.

This is a difficult behavior to stop. The more she does it, the more she's practicing the behavior, and harder it is to break the cycle. First, increase her physical, mental, and emotional/social activity. For example, take her on a couple 30-45 minute walks a day (physical), do 2-3 10 minute training sessions with her (mental. It doesn't really matter what you're training, it's the brain workup that's important), and spend 5-10 minutes a day sitting and brushing her (social/emotional). Next, I would recommend removing all the blankets that are problems for her. Consider using a basket muzzle to prevent chewing if you can't remove the blankets. She can be in a crate when not directly supervised to prevent destruction. Give her other toys to play with with the blankets totally out of the picture. You may be able to bring them back later, but you may not. Some dogs that chew/destroy are anxious. If she seems like a nervous or skittish dog, I recommend talking to your veterinarian about some treatments or doing a consultation with me to talk about OTC options. Good luck! Behavioral issues can be very frustrating.