Lick inhibition

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Lick inhibition

Posted : 9/21/2006 12:24:29 PM

We have a well-trained (obedience, adv. obedience, canine good citizen) mixed-breed dog. She's got a lot of staffie in her, so she is very stubborn and independent. She is, however, ( after much effort and patience) great on lead, pretty darn good off of it. But she licks. A lot. And I mean a lot. She clearly does it to show affection and submission. Here's my dilemna: I don't want her to lick nearly as much as she does. On the other hand, I am very hesitant to do anything to discourage her from showing her affection and submission, especially in light of her breeding. Any advice or opinions?

corvus

Posted : 9/22/2006 5:23:19 AM

I taught my dog not to lick by saying "no licking" and taking my hands away from her when she started. She soon learnt that when I said "no licking", she had to stop or I'd stop patting her/move away. She still licks, especially when she's feeling sooky, but she'll stop when I tell her to. I wish my mother would teach her dogs the same thing, because whenever I come home I get sneaky licks on my legs and feet all the time! I'm one of these people that has a low tolerance to be licked.

I wouldn't worry too much about squashing attempts to display affection. She'll find other ways to do it that are a lot nicer. Penny leans on me or rests her forehead on me. It's utterly adorable. And like I said, she still licks every now and then.

racuda

Posted : 9/27/2006 10:22:38 PM

I don't think she will take it personally if you discourage licking. Just say "off" or "no" or whatever. When she is obedient you can praise her and give affection. She will learn that simply obeying your commands will please you and therefore satisfy her desire to show affection, in that way.

Another possibility is that she considers you a litter mate, rather than her alpha leader. My dog does not lick me (although I have not had to discourage it), but he will lick my daughter and others.