The Dog’s Tongue

The dog’s tongue is important for regulating body temperature (panting), eating, and communication. It is made up of muscle tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and taste buds. Dogs have fewer taste buds than humans. Humans have five types of taste buds, but they have four, which allow them to distinguish between bitter, sweet, salty, and sour. They don’t just use their tongue for licking, but licking is very important because it is natural and instinctive behavior for the dog.

The Functions of Licking

Licking has various functions. For example, this way your dog shows affection. Think of a mother dog licking her puppies, giving them affection and love. Licking can also be used as communication or to reduce stress because endorphins are released in the body. Endorphins are substances produced by the body that act as natural painkillers and give a feeling of euphoria, calm, and happiness.

Licking is Not Always Harmless

Although licking is often harmless, excessive licking can indicate underlying problems. A dog that licks excessively and compulsively, for example, its paw, may be experiencing stress, pain in its paw, or itching. Excessive licking of body parts can lead to hotspots. This also leads to the release of pain-relieving endorphins and can cause an addictive effect, making it difficult for the dog to stop. It is therefore important to recognize this in time and go to a veterinarian!

Using a Lick Mat

To allow the dog to perform its natural behavior, you can choose to give wet food on a lick mat instead of in its food bowl. A lick mat is made of rubber or silicone with relief patterns, knobs, and grooves. This prevents gulping of food and stimulates the production of endorphins. Dogs that are stressed, anxious, or in pain can benefit from using a lick mat. However, a lick mat is not a medicine and should not be used as such.on