How to stop dogs from licking their wounds

It's a common myth that your dog's saliva has highly antibacterial properties so their licking can be good for their wounds. Actually, saliva is only mildly bacterial, and can also be a source of disease-producing bugs. The trauma caused by licking is also likely to make wounds worse.

If your dog is trying to lick their wounds, it's important to prevent them from doing this as much as you can. Find out why dogs often lick their wounds, and the best methods for preventing this.

Why do dogs lick their wounds?

For dogs, licking wounds is like you rubbing your head if you hit it. The nerves used to transmit the rubbing sensation block the feeling of pain or soreness. Canine saliva also has some mild antibacterial effect.

For wild or feral dogs, licking may be beneficial in cleaning a wound. But wild animals are busy staying safe and finding food. Whereas a well-fed, pampered pet can devote a lot of time to licking a wound, making it more extensive and sore in the process.

So limiting access to wounds, particularly surgical ones, is important.

How to stop your dog from licking their wounds

Elizabethan collar

An Elizabethan collar (also known as a Buster collar) is a cone- shaped collar, usually used to prevent damage to wounds or bandage removal.

The collar has to be long enough so that its edge is just over the tip of the nose when it’s in place on the neck. This stops your dog from being able to reach their wound. 

It can take some dogs some time adjust to using an Elizabethan collar. They may be scary for them, especially at first. 

Soft versions of an Elizabethan collar may work better. Clear plastic collars provide better vision, as well. You may need to check that your dog is able to drink and eat while wearing their collar, and that they cannot reach the wound. If they can, ask your vet for advice.

Inflatable collar

An inflatable collar works by limited your dog's ability to turn and lick themselves. It has to be closely fitted to their neck, so you'll need to check the instructions carefully.

Some long-nosed, thin-necked dog breeds (such as greyhounds and Dobermans) may not be suited to using an inflatable collar. Some collars are also easily punctured. There are non-inflatable versions of this collar, but they are not always effective in stopping your dog from reaching parts of their body.

Bandages or boots

Your vet may advise bandages or boots, that can be fitted to cover a wound. This can include making a “body tube” from leggings or a T-shirt, depending on the size of your dog. You can also buy  surgery recovery suits.

Remember that bandages should always be covered when you are taking your dog outside, to prevent them from getting wet. When you're back indoors, remove the cover to allow the area to breathe.

Tips for distracting your dog

Here are some additional ways you can distract your dog from licking their wounds. Just make sure to adjust their regular meals if you are providing food enrichment as a distraction.

• Try scatter feeding instead of feeding your dog dry food in their bowl. This can keep your dog busy while they use their nose to find their food.
• Fill a Kong toy with your dog's favourite food
• Try one of our ice treat recipes, such as ice licks or ice pops. Not only do they keep your dog cool in summer, but they'll keep them distracted by licking the ice.
• Provide mental distraction with training, such as clicker training