Excessive Licking

This is typically a medical problem, even though people call it allergies. A lot of dogs are put on Apoquel for excessive licking. That's something to ask your vet about — it's not my job to recommend drugs.

I've seen other causes. Fertilizer on the lawn — ChemLawn and the like — dogs walk through it, paws get sore, the dog licks. Or the seasonal transition: the dog was inside all winter, summer hits, the dog runs outside, paws stretch, a little bleeding. The dog licks.

Some of it is normal — dogs love the salt off your skin after a workout. That's just a dog being a dog.

But if the dog is gnawing its own fur or making hot spots, see a vet right away.

Otherwise, correct it. A firm "No," and the dog stops.