Judy Taylor
Introduction: The Curious Behaviors of Dogs
Dogs are known for their intriguing behaviors that can sometimes leave their owners puzzled. Air licking and head shaking are two of those behaviors that often raise questions about their causes and implications. While these behaviors may appear amusing, they are not always harmless and may signal underlying health issues that require attention. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why dogs lick the air and shake their head back and forth, and explore ways to minimize these behaviors.
Understanding the Air Licking Behavior in Dogs
Air licking is a behavior in which a dog extends its tongue and licks the air, without any visible stimulus. This behavior can occur for various reasons, ranging from biological to environmental factors. Some dogs may lick the air as a way to cope with stress or anxiety, while others do it out of habit or for a sensory experience. Air licking can also be a sign of medical conditions such as nausea, gastrointestinal issues, seizures, or pain.
Biological Explanation for Air Licking in Dogs
Biologically, air licking can be linked to the dog’s sense of smell, taste, and memory. Dogs have a highly sensitive olfactory system that allows them to detect subtle scents in the air. Licking the air may enhance their ability to collect and process these scents. Furthermore, air licking can activate the taste receptors in the dog’s mouth, providing a pleasurable sensation that reinforces the behavior. Some dogs may also lick the air as a way of recalling past experiences, such as licking food off their owner’s hand.
Environmental Factors that Trigger Air Licking
Environmental factors such as stress, boredom, or excitement can also trigger air licking in dogs. Dogs that are exposed to loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, or new people may exhibit this behavior as a way of coping with the situation. Similarly, dogs that lack physical and mental stimulation may develop air licking as a compulsive behavior. In some cases, air licking can be a symptom of separation anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which require professional intervention.
Health Issues Associated with Air Licking in Dogs
Air licking can also be a sign of underlying health conditions in dogs. Gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux, bloating, or constipation can cause nausea and discomfort, leading to air licking. Seizures, focal motor seizures and partial seizures can also trigger air licking as a preictal symptom. Pain in the head, mouth, or throat can make a dog lick the air as a way of relieving the discomfort. If air licking persists or is coupled with other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
The Role of Dog Age, Breed and Gender in Air Licking
Age, breed, and gender can also influence the frequency and intensity of air licking in dogs. Younger dogs may exhibit air licking as a play behavior or a way of exploring their environment, while older dogs may develop it as a result of cognitive decline or health issues. Certain breeds such as Bulldogs, Boxers, and Shar Peis are prone to digestive issues that can cause air licking. Female dogs may also lick the air more often than males, possibly due to hormonal changes.
Tips on How to Minimize Air Licking in Dogs
To minimize air licking in dogs, it is important to identify the underlying cause and address it accordingly. Providing adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization can reduce stress and boredom, which are common triggers for air licking. Feeding the dog smaller and more frequent meals, and avoiding foods that can cause bloating or reflux can also help alleviate gastrointestinal issues. If air licking is caused by anxiety or OCD, behavioral modification techniques such as desensitization and counter-conditioning, or medication may be necessary.
The Science behind Head Shaking in Dogs
Head shaking is a behavior in which a dog rapidly moves its head back and forth, often accompanied by ear-flapping and scratching. This behavior can indicate a range of issues, including ear infections, allergies, foreign objects in the ear, or neurological problems. Head shaking can also be a normal behavior in some dogs, especially those with floppy ears, as a way of clearing dirt or moisture from the ear canal.
Common Causes of Head Shaking in Dogs
Ear infections are the most common cause of head shaking in dogs. Bacteria, yeast, or parasites can invade the ear canal, causing inflammation, pain, and itching. Allergies to food, pollen, or other environmental factors can also trigger head shaking in dogs, as they cause irritation and inflammation in the ear. Foreign objects such as grass seeds, ticks, or earwax buildup can also cause discomfort in the ear, leading to head shaking. Neurological issues such as vestibular disease or seizures can result in abnormal head movements in dogs.
Treatment Options for Head Shaking in Dogs
The treatment for head shaking in dogs depends on the underlying cause. In cases of ear infections, antibiotics or antifungal medication may be necessary to clear the infection. In allergic dogs, identifying and eliminating the allergen, or providing medication such as antihistamines or corticosteroids can reduce the symptoms. Removing foreign objects from the ear canal, cleaning the ear, or providing ear drops may alleviate the discomfort. In cases of neurological issues, medication or surgery may be required. Regular ear cleaning and preventive measures such as tick control and proper grooming can also help reduce the incidence of head shaking in dogs.
