Dog Won’t Stop Licking the Floor and Coughing – What’s Going On?

It’s a scene many dog owners have witnessed: your furry friend suddenly starts licking the floor obsessively, followed by a hacking cough that seems to come from deep within their chest. This unsettling behavior can be alarming, leaving you wondering what’s wrong and how to alleviate their discomfort. While a little bit of licking is normal, excessive floor licking coupled with coughing can signal a variety of underlying issues, and understanding the possible causes is crucial for timely intervention.

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As a dog owner who’s experienced this with my own playful pup, I know firsthand the worry it can trigger. From a simple case of indigestion to more serious ailments, the reasons behind this behavior can range widely. This article will delve into the common culprits behind a dog’s persistent floor licking and coughing, offering insights for identifying the source and guiding your next steps.

Understanding the Link Between Floor Licking and Coughing

While floor licking and coughing seem like separate behaviors, they often share a common root cause. The act of licking can be a dog’s way of trying to soothe an irritated stomach, often associated with digestive upset. Their bodies may be attempting to get rid of a foreign object, a buildup of gas, or even a viral infection. The resulting coughing can be triggered by irritation in the throat or respiratory system, sometimes stemming from the same underlying issue that’s causing the licking.

Let’s explore the most common culprits behind this puzzling combination:

Possible Causes for Excessive Floor Licking and Coughing in Dogs

1. Gastrointestinal Issues:

One of the most frequent reasons for excessive floor licking and coughing in dogs is a problem with their digestive system. When a dog’s stomach or intestines are upset, they may lick the floor in an attempt to relieve discomfort or to get rid of excess stomach acid. The coughing can be a result of the stomach contents irritating the throat.

• Indigestion: This is often triggered by eating something that disagrees with their stomach, like a change in diet, spoiled food, or even chewing on something they shouldn’t have. Symptoms often include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in addition to licking and coughing.
• Gastroenteritis: This infection of the stomach and intestines can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration. In severe cases, it can lead to coughing and even respiratory distress.
• Parasites: Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms can lead to digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, which may trigger floor licking and coughing.

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2. Respiratory Infections:

Respiratory infections like kennel cough, canine influenza, and bronchitis can cause severe coughing, sometimes accompanied by excessive licking. The licking might stem from post-nasal drip, which can irritate the back of the throat, leading to licking.

3. Foreign Objects in the Throat:

If your dog has recently ingested a small object, such as a bone fragment or a piece of toy, it may be stuck in their throat, leading to discomfort, coughing, and even gagging. The licking could be a symptom of throat irritation, even if the object is further down in the digestive tract. If you suspect this, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately.

4. Anxiety or Stress:

While less common, anxiety and stress can sometimes manifest in unusual behaviors like compulsive licking. Stressful events like moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or even separation anxiety can trigger excessive licking and, in some cases, coughing.

5. Allergies:

Allergies to certain ingredients in their food, pollen, dust, or other environmental triggers can cause a range of symptoms, including coughing, sneezing, and itching. The licking might be an attempt to soothe irritated skin or a result of post-nasal drip.

6. Neurological Conditions:

In rare cases, some neurological conditions, such as seizures, can lead to obsessive licking and other unusual behaviors, including coughing.

Tips & Expert Advice

If your dog is exhibiting persistent floor licking and coughing, it’s vital to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. However, you can take some preliminary steps to alleviate their discomfort:

• Monitor their food intake: Make sure your dog is eating a healthy diet that is appropriate for their age and breed and that they are not eating anything they shouldn’t.
• Provide fresh water: Dehydration can worsen digestive symptoms. Ensure your dog has access to a clean source of fresh water.
• Keep them calm and comfortable: A quiet, stress-free environment can help your dog relax and potentially reduce excessive licking.
• Monitor their behaviour: If their licking and coughing are accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Explanation of Tips:

Monitoring your dog’s food intake can help identify any potential dietary triggers. Providing fresh water is crucial for hydration, particularly if your dog is experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Creating a calm environment helps reduce stress, which can exacerbate digestive issues. Observing for additional symptoms can help your veterinarian pinpoint the root cause.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I know if it’s just a minor issue or something more serious?

A: If your dog’s licking and coughing are accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, or blood in their vomit or stools, you should immediately take them to a veterinarian. It’s best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.

Q: What are some home remedies to help with floor licking and coughing?

A: Home remedies should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. While a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice can help soothe digestive upset, it’s vital to seek veterinary advice before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Q: How long should I wait before taking my dog to the vet?

A: If your dog’s licking and coughing persist for more than a day or two, if they are showing signs of distress, or if their symptoms are accompanied by other unusual behaviour, it’s best to seek veterinary attention without delay.

Dog Won’T Stop Licking The Floor And Coughing

Conclusion

Excessive floor licking and coughing in dogs can be worrisome but are often related to common issues like indigestion, respiratory infections, or foreign objects. By understanding the possible causes, monitoring your dog’s behavior, and seeking professional help when necessary, you can ensure their well-being and provide them with the appropriate care to alleviate their symptoms.

Are you interested in learning more about the different types of dog coughs? Let us know in the comments below.