Why do Bichons Lick so Much?

ByCoral

Why Does My Bichon Frise Lick Everything?

If your Bichon Frise licks you, the furniture, themselves, or pretty much anything they can reach, you are not alone. Bichon Frises are known for being licky dogs. While some licking is perfectly normal dog behavior, excessive licking can sometimes point to something that needs your attention. Understanding why your Bichon licks so much is the first step toward figuring out if it is just a quirky habit or something more.

Normal Reasons Bichons Lick

Showing Affection

Bichon Frises are one of the most affectionate dog breeds out there. They were literally bred to be companion dogs, and licking is one of the main ways dogs show love. When your Bichon licks your face or hands, they are basically giving you kisses. This behavior starts as puppies when their mothers lick them, and they learn to return the gesture as a sign of bonding. Since Bichons are especially people oriented, they tend to be extra enthusiastic about showing affection this way.

Getting Your Attention

Bichons are smart dogs who quickly figure out what gets a reaction from you. If licking your hand makes you look at them, talk to them, or pet them, they will keep doing it. Even pushing them away or saying “no” counts as attention in their book. These dogs crave interaction and will use whatever works to get it, and licking is one of their favorite tools.

Exploring Their World

Dogs use their mouths the way we use our hands. Licking helps them taste and smell things in their environment. Your skin has salt, oils, and traces of whatever you have touched or eaten, which can be fascinating to a curious Bichon. They might lick the couch because you spilled something there last week, or lick the floor because they detected an interesting scent.

Concerning Reasons for Excessive Licking

Allergies and Skin Irritation

Bichon Frises are prone to allergies, and one of the most common signs is excessive licking, especially of the paws, belly, and legs. If your Bichon is constantly licking the same area, check the skin underneath for redness, bumps, or irritation. Food allergies, environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites, and contact allergies can all trigger this behavior. If you notice your Bichon’s coat shedding more than usual along with the licking, allergies are a strong possibility.

Anxiety and Stress

Bichon Frises are known to be prone to separation anxiety and general nervousness. Repetitive licking can be a self soothing behavior, similar to how some people bite their nails when they are stressed. If your Bichon licks excessively when left alone, during storms, or when their routine changes, anxiety could be driving the behavior. Whining along with licking is another clue that stress is involved.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Dogs sometimes lick surfaces like floors, walls, and furniture when they have an upset stomach. This is called excessive licking of surfaces (ELS), and studies have shown it is often linked to gastrointestinal problems like acid reflux, pancreatitis, or food sensitivities. If your Bichon suddenly starts licking random surfaces more than usual, it is worth mentioning to your vet.

Pain or Discomfort

Dogs instinctively lick areas that hurt. If your Bichon keeps licking a specific joint, paw, or part of their body, they could be dealing with pain from an injury, arthritis, or even a thorn or splinter you cannot see. Persistent licking in one spot deserves a closer look and possibly a vet visit.

How to Reduce Excessive Licking

Start by ruling out medical causes with a vet visit, especially if the licking is new or focused on one area. If health issues are ruled out, try redirecting the behavior by offering a chew toy or puzzle feeder when the licking starts. Make sure your Bichon gets enough exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation since boredom is a common trigger. Avoid reinforcing the licking by giving attention when it happens. Instead, reward calm behavior. For anxiety related licking, establishing a consistent routine and providing a safe, quiet space can make a big difference.

Is it normal for Bichon Frises to lick a lot?

Some licking is completely normal for Bichon Frises since they are affectionate dogs who show love through licking. However, excessive or obsessive licking, especially focused on one area, may indicate allergies, anxiety, or a health issue.

Why does my Bichon Frise lick their paws so much?

Excessive paw licking in Bichon Frises is often caused by allergies, either food related or environmental. Check for redness or irritation between the toes and talk to your vet about possible allergy testing.

How do I stop my Bichon Frise from licking me constantly?

Avoid giving attention when they lick, redirect them with a toy or treat, and reward calm behavior instead. Make sure they are getting enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom driven licking.

From the tiniest Chihuahua to the greatest of Danes, I am simply obsessed with dogs. I’ve been working with dogs professionally for nearly a decade. I managed a private dog daycare and worked as a liaison at the University of Florida Small Animal Hospital.

My experience as the liaison of integrative medicine, neurology, and zoo medicine at UF Small Animal Hospital gave me valuable insight into the challenges faced by pet owners with animals who have medical conditions. My time there also gave me the opportunity to care for a disabled dog and write a book about the experience.

As manager of a dog daycare, I learned about how dogs play and interact, warning signs for aggression, and how to rehabilitate dog-reactive dogs. During my time there I was under the mentorship of two groomers, from whom I learned grooming essentials.

I currently work with high-risk shelter dogs and manage a blog to help other volunteers and foster families. I have two dogs of my own, a Maltese and a Standard Poodle pup.