A lot of dogs experience some form of heartbreak at least once in their life. It usually happens when their owners abandon them and they start realizing it.
Most people surrender animals they don’t want to a shelter, but some people are far too uncaring or cruel to do even the bare minimum.
Instead, they will leave them in a terrible place and in awful conditions, so that they starve. In this story, we will talk about a pittie who was dumped in the trash and just left there.
A Very Cruel Fate
As she was performing all of her regular chores, a woman from Kansas went outside to throw out the trash.
Then, she heard something strange. It sounded like something was in the trash, so the woman took a good look and was startled.
There was a dog inside the dumpster, locked in his wire kennel without any possibility of escaping.
She called for help from Wichita Animal Action League and they arrived to help the poor dog.
He was quickly taken to a veterinarian clinic because he was starving and possibly had infections.
The veterinarians took very good care of him throughout his stay there, but they had to transfer him to his new medical foster parents, Lee and Darcy.
Bowie’s So Happy Now
During his stay there, Bowie had managed to put on significant weight and didn’t look so malnourished anymore.
He really just liked to gobble up food without chewing, so they had to find a way to slow down his eating, and they did so by putting some of his food in puzzles.
One of the animal rescuers, Sarah Coffman, really wanted to foster Bowie herself, but he was set to move to another home for the time being.
She told The Dodo: I was trying to convince my husband that we needed to foster Bowie. And I was really, really reluctant to take Bowie to Connie’s house to foster.
However, when they arrived, Coffman was surprised by how much effort Connie put into welcoming Bowie into her house.
Bowie’s New Foster Parents
Connie’s love for Bowie was apparent almost immediately. He was so happy and full of love that it took them by surprise.
His new fosters took him on walks regularly and noticed that he seemed to enjoy it. However, the big surprise for Bowie was when he started running.
Connie said: When he first started running, and realised he could run, it was kind of like a baby learning how to walk. And the more he does it, the more he enjoys it.
They also loved taking him to Andy’s Frozen Custard, in Kansas, where he could enjoy eating a delicious pup cone.
It seemed like nothing could crush his spirit anymore, and that he was now really loving his life.
His fosters are proud of the amazing progress he has made after all this time. He looks like a completely different dog now and I really wish him all the best on his new adventures.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why your furry friend can’t seem to resist giving you those late-night licks, you’re not alone. As a seasoned dog trainer, I’ve seen this behavior in many pups, and there are a few common reasons behind it. When your dog showers you with nighttime kisses, it could be their way of seeking comfort, showing affection, or even trying to communicate something to you. Understanding the motivation behind this behavior can help strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion. So, the next time your dog indulges in a licking spree under the moonlight, remember that there’s more to it than just a simple display of affection.
Understanding Canine Behavior: The Basics
What Licking Means in Dog Language
Dogs lick to communicate with you; it’s a form of bonding and affection. Licking at night could be a sign of seeking comfort or attention. It’s your dog’s way of expressing closeness and warmth, so don’t be surprised if you’re getting those nighttime licks.
Nighttime Behavior in Dogs
Nighttime brings a different vibe for dogs. During the quiet hours, their instincts may heighten. Your dog’s licking behavior at night might be a response to this change in surroundings. They may seek reassurance or ensure your presence by showering you with those licks.
Remember, your dog’s late-night licking is their way of showing love and closeness to you, so embrace those furry midnight kisses.
Common Reasons Why Dogs Lick Their Owners
Seeking Attention and Affection
When your dog licks you excessively at night, it may be seeking your attention and showing its affection towards you. Dogs use licking as a way to communicate their love and bond with their owners. During nighttime, when the house is quiet and calm, your dog might feel the need to connect with you through this behavior.
Expressing Submissiveness
Excessive licking can also be a sign of your dog expressing its submissiveness towards you. By licking you, your dog shows that it acknowledges your authority and wants to please you. This behavior is rooted in their instinctual pack hierarchy, where licking is a way to demonstrate submission to the leader of the pack.
Grooming and Instinctive Behavior
Another common reason why dogs lick their owners excessively at night is linked to grooming and instinctive behavior. Dogs have a natural instinct to groom themselves and their pack members, which includes licking. At night, when your dog is relaxed and close to you, it may engage in excessive licking as a way to groom you and show care.
Understanding these reasons behind your dog’s excessive licking behavior can help strengthen your bond with your furry companion. It’s a way for your dog to communicate, show affection, and establish a connection with you during the quiet hours of the night.
Factors That May Cause Excessive Licking at Night
Anxiety and Stress in Dogs
Dogs may lick excessively at night due to anxiety or stress. Just like humans, dogs can experience stress from various sources, such as loud noises, changes in their environment, separation from their owners, or even underlying medical conditions. When your dog licks you excessively at night, it might be their way of seeking comfort and reassurance during these stressful periods.
Health Issues and Discomfort
Another reason for your dog’s nighttime licking could be related to health issues or discomfort. Pain, itchiness, skin irritation, or dental problems can lead to increased licking behavior. If your dog is experiencing any physical discomfort, they may try to alleviate it by licking excessively, especially when they are more relaxed and focused at night. It’s essential to monitor your dog’s overall health and behavior to address any underlying medical issues promptly.
Hunger or Thirst
Sometimes, excessive licking at night could simply be your dog’s way of communicating their basic needs, such as hunger or thirst. If your dog’s feeding schedule doesn’t align with their nighttime cravings, they may lick you to signal that they are hungry or thirsty. Ensuring that your dog has access to water and providing a sufficient evening meal can help prevent excessive licking episodes related to basic needs.
Remember, understanding the possible reasons behind your dog’s excessive licking at night can help you address their needs effectively and ensure a harmonious relationship with your furry companion. By considering factors such as anxiety, health issues, and basic necessities, you can support your dog’s well-being and strengthen your bond through attentive care and timely interventions.
How to Respond to Your Dog’s Nighttime Licking
Establishing Boundaries and Training
When your dog licks excessively at night, it’s essential to establish boundaries and reinforce good behavior. Start by gently redirecting your dog’s licking impulses, offering a toy or a chew treat as a positive distraction. Consistency is key in training; reward your dog when they refrain from excessive licking, gradually teaching them appropriate behavior.
Ensuring a Calming Sleeping Environment
Create a soothing sleeping environment for your dog to reduce nighttime licking. Provide a comfortable bed in a quiet, dimly lit room. Establish a bedtime routine that includes a walk or playtime to help your dog unwind. Calming pheromone diffusers or relaxing music can also help set a tranquil atmosphere for your furry friend.
Consulting a Veterinarian
If your dog’s nighttime licking persists or is accompanied by other concerning behaviors, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian. Excessive licking could indicate underlying health issues or discomfort that require professional attention. Your vet can assess your dog’s overall well-being, address any health issues, and provide tailored advice to manage excessive licking effectively.
Tips to Reduce Excessive Licking Behavior
Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
To help curb your dog’s excessive licking at night, ensure they get enough exercise during the day. A tired dog is less likely to exhibit restless behavior at night. Engage in activities that stimulate them mentally as well, like puzzle toys or training sessions. A well-exercised and mentally content pup is more likely to relax at night without resorting to excessive licking.
Creating a Nighttime Routine
Establishing a consistent nighttime routine can signal to your dog that it’s time to wind down. Set regular feeding and potty times before bed and incorporate calming activities like a short walk or a relaxing play session. A predictable routine can help your dog feel secure, reducing the need for nighttime licking to seek comfort.
Positive Reinforcement for Calm Behavior
Use positive reinforcement to encourage calm behavior in your dog. Reward moments of quiet and relaxation without excessive licking with treats, praise, or a favorite toy. By reinforcing these calm behaviors, you’re teaching your dog that they can relax without the need for constant licking. Consistent positive reinforcement can help reshape their nighttime habits.
Conclusion
Understanding why your dog licks you excessively at night can help you address their needs effectively. It’s their way of communicating, seeking comfort, and showing affection. Excessive licking may signal submissiveness, grooming instincts, or a desire to please you. Factors like anxiety, stress, health issues, or basic needs could be causing this behavior. By implementing tips like regular exercise, a nighttime routine, and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog relax and feel secure at night. Strengthening the bond with your furry friend is key to ensuring their well-being and promoting a harmonious relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dogs lick their owners at night?
Dogs may lick their owners at night to communicate, bond, seek comfort, attention, and express affection.
What does excessive licking at night indicate?
Excessive licking at night may indicate submissiveness, grooming instincts, a desire to please the owner, anxiety, stress, health issues, discomfort, hunger, or thirst in dogs.
How can I reduce my dog’s excessive licking behavior at night?
To reduce excessive licking behavior at night, ensure regular exercise and mental stimulation, create a nighttime routine, and use positive reinforcement for calm behavior.
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Hey there, I’m Janet Brooks, a dog-loving student from California. I’m all about helping pups in need, especially those without homes. Me and my awesome friends work together to give shelter and love to stray dogs. Oh, and I also write blogs about dogs to share helpful info.