Why Do Pomeranians Lick So Much (9 Reasons)

Dogs love to lick and Pomeranians are not an exception but, why do Pomeranians lick so much?

In this article, I break down the top reasons why your Pomeranian may be licking and what you should do about it.

Pomeranians lick for a variety of reasons including attention-seeking, communication, itching, discomfort, allergies, medical issues as well as anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Table Of Contents

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9 Different Types Of Dog Licking

Communication
Affection
Flavor
Itching
Discomfort
Allergies
Medical Issues
Obessive Behavior
Anxiety

Why Do Pomeranians Lick To Communicate

Some dogs learn that if they lick you, they will get your attention.

In this process, you may have even trained your dog to lick you in order to get your attention and ask for something.

Your Pomeranian may be asking for attention, food, playtime or to go outside.

Your Pomeranian Licks For Affection

Licking among packs of animals is a sign of affection, your dog looks up to you as the pack leader.

You Pomeranian may simply be showing you respect.

On the other side of affection is, your Pomeranian may be requesting affection from you.

Pomeranians Lick To Taste

Your Pomeranian may lick your skin in order to taste its saltiness or the lotion you just rubbed on.

My black Pomeranian Willow will lick my legs after I rub coconut oil on them. She loves the taste of coconut oil.

Pomeranians Lick Because They Itch

A Pomeranian’s licking is comparable to a human’s itching.

We will sometimes scratch an itchy spot over and over again, your dog on the other hand may lick an itchy spot.

Your dog’s itching can be caused by many things including dry skin and fleas.

This type of repetitive licking can become an issue if your dog licks the layers of its skin away making a raw or sore spot.

It’s always a good idea to try to stop the licking and treat the underlining cause.

Pomeranians Itch Due To Discomfort

You Pomeranian may be feeling some discomfort that is causing them to lick.

It could be an injury or another condition such as an upset stomach that is causing them to lick.

In this case, your Pomeranian may lick themselves in the sore area repeatedly or they may lick you looking for comfort.

Pomeranians Will Lick Due To Allergies

Just like you and I, your Pomeranian can experience an allergic reaction to many things within their environment.

Be aware of common allergins like.

Houshold Cleaners
Smoke
Candles
Food
Grooming Supplies

Pomeranians Can Lick Due To Medical Issues

There are many medical issues that may cause your Pomeranian to lick.

Some of these issues include hypothyroidism and orthopedic issues.

Hypothyroidism can cause dogs to have itchy ears and feet.

Orthopedic issues can cause joint pain which may cause your dog to lick themselves repeatedly as a response.

Pomeranians May Lick Due To Obsessive Behavior

Unfortunately, some dogs develop behavioral issues like obsessive licking.

You will need to rule out any other medical issues or irritations before you can diagnose your dog with obsessive licking.

If your dog truly has this condition you can use a bitter spray on the overly licked spots to try to get them to stop licking.

Pomeranians Lick Due To Seperation Anxiety

Pomeranians are known to experience separation anxiety which can lead to destructive behaviors like licking.

Most Pomeranains do not want to be left home alone, especially for many hours like a full workday.

If your dog is experiencing separation anxiety you may want to figure out how you can spend more time with your dog or if someone can visit him or her during the day.

Another option is having your dog go to doggy daycare.

If your dog has separation anxiety it is best to speak with your vet and a professional dog trainer.

Is Your Pomeranians Licking A Problem

Your Pomeranian licking may not be a problem if it is just occasional and isn’t attached to a health or behavioral problem.

If your dog’s licking is caused by a health condition, it is always important to address that condition with your vet and make sure that your dog gets the help it needs.

If it is a behavioral problem causing your dog to lick, that should also be addressed.

I would first speak with your vet and go from there.

Your vet may have some suggestions for you or point you in the direction of a dog trainer if needed.

How To Stop Your Pomeranian From Licking

How to stop your Pomeranian from licking will depend on the cause for the licking to begin with.

Some solutions for dog licking include.

Not rewarding your dog when he or she licks you
Move away from your dog
Saying no when your dog licks
Distract your dog and divert their attention
Using a bitter spray
Make sure your dogs skin and fur is clean
Don’t overbathe your dog
Make sure your don’t use grooming supplies that can irritate
Watch out for irritants in your home like smoke, candles and cleaners
Look for allergies
Look for injuries
Vet Care
Professional training

Final Thoughts

Dog licking can be caused by so many different things.

Many times it’s nothing that needs to be addressed whereas other times it could be in response to something serious.

You know your dog better than anyone.

If your dog is acting differently and it lick the same spot over and over again it is best to bring your dog to the vet for an evaluation.

Extreme behavioral issues like separation anxiety can also be challenging to work with.

If you sense that your dog’s licking is caused by anxiety first try to break up the routine that may be causing the anxiety and spend more time with your dog.

If needed seek professional help for you and your dog.