Operation Tongue Tampering: How to End Your Boston Terrier's Licking Marathon
Is your Boston Terrier mistaking you for a particularly delicious lollipop? Do you find yourself constantly sporting a suspicious sheen – a sheen that suspiciously smells like dog breath? If so, my friend, you've got a licker on your hands (or, more accurately, all over them). But fear not, weary human! We can turn this slobbery situation around.
Decoding the Licks: Why is My Boston Terrier Licking Everything in Sight?
First things first, let's crack the code behind the constant canine canoodling. There are a few reasons your Boston might be channeling their inner French kisser:
- They're Showing Affection: Licking is a natural way for dogs to show love and respect. It's basically a furry handshake...except way wetter.
- They're Bored or Anxious: A bored pup might lick to self-soothe or out of sheer lack of anything better to do. Think of it as their version of watching reruns.
- Medical Mystery: Sometimes, excessive licking can be a sign of allergies, skin irritation, or even dental problems. If the licking seems out of character, a trip to the vet is your best bet.
Operation Stop-Lick: Taming the Tongue Tornado
Now that you know why your Boston is bathing you in kisses (or should we say bathwater), here's how to politely (and effectively) ask them to ease up on the sandpaper smooches:
- Distraction is Key: When your pup starts licking, have a favorite toy or chew on hand to redirect their attention. A good game of fetch is a fantastic way to burn off energy and curb boredom licking.
- Be the Treat Dispenser: Instead of rewarding licks with attention, wait for them to stop and then shower them with praise and a yummy treat. This teaches them that good behavior (not being a walking tongue bath) gets the good stuff.
- Bitter Truth: For particularly persistent lickers, a bitter apple spray (applied to surfaces, not your dog!) can be a harmless deterrent. Just remember, bitter doesn't equal delicious!
Important Note: Never punish your dog for licking. It's a natural behavior, and punishment will only create confusion and anxiety.
Living with a Licker: Embracing the Bostonian Smooch
Let's face it, sometimes those sloppy Boston kisses are just plain adorable. Here are some tips for coexisting with a licker:
- Keep them Entertained: A tired pup is a less-licking pup! Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep boredom at bay.
- Embrace the Bath Towel: Invest in a good quality bath towel. You'll probably be using it a lot.
Remember: A little lick here and there is perfectly normal. But if the licking becomes excessive, consult your vet to rule out any medical concerns.
Frequently Asked Lick-fighter Questions:
How to stop my Boston Terrier from licking the furniture?
Bitter apple spray or a light coating of lemon juice (on surfaces your dog can't reach) can be a deterrent.
How to stop my Boston Terrier from licking their paws?
This could be a sign of allergies or irritation. See your vet to determine the cause and get treatment recommendations.
How to stop my Boston Terrier from licking me?
Redirect their attention with a toy or treat when they start licking excessively. Reward calm behavior instead.
How to get my Boston to stop licking the floor?
Make sure there's nothing tempting on the floor (crumbs, spills) and provide plenty of chew toys to redirect their attention.
How to make my Boston Terrier stop licking their wounds?
An Elizabethan collar (cone) can prevent them from reaching the wound and allowing it to heal properly. Consult your vet for proper fitting and care instructions.