Dog Health: How to Stop a Dog From Chewing on a Wound
Dog licking or chewing a wound? Protect it with an Elizabethan collar!
alexadry all rights reserved
Why Do Dogs Lick and Chew on Wounds?
If your dog is chewing on himself, on a hot spot, or other types of wounds, you may be dealing with two problems: the wound itself and, on top of that, your dog repeatedly pestering it. The problem may be challenging and quite troublesome for the simple fact that the wound is never given an opportunity to heal. But why do dogs seem to enjoy so much chewing on themselves?
When your dog chews on himself, it is very important to understand the source of the wound. Was the wound caused by something (i.e., a scrape, scratch or bug bite), or was it self-inflicted?
Self-Inflicted vs. External Causes
The difference between the two is very important. If your dog is causing self-inflicted wounds, the treatment plan will require a careful assessment as to why the dog is doing that. Self-inflicted wounds in dogs are often seen in cases of separation anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, boredom, stress, and frustration. In these cases, the dog chews simply because it helps relieve stress, anxiety, or boredom in a similar fashion as some nervous people resort to nail-biting.
When it comes to these types of problems, the underlying trigger will need to be addressed. Yes, you can stop a dog from chewing, but the dog will still feel the need to do so and will persevere if changes in his lifestyle are not made.
If the wound is caused by a scratch, hot spot, bug bite, or another type of wound, and is not self-inflicted, consider having the wound assessed by your veterinarian and then try some of the solutions below to stop your dog from biting the area. In these cases, the dog tends to lick and chew on the wound because it hurts and the dog is trying to get some relief. Dogs have a natural inclination to lick their wounds, and this instinct is not to be blamed.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Wounds?
According to Patty Khuly, a practicing veterinarian based in Miami, Florida, if humans lacked opposable thumbs and thus were unable to access disinfectants, they would possibly lick their injuries too. Also, it appears that the saliva of a dog contains several beneficial compounds meant to destroy the cell walls of gram-positive bacteria, promote wound healing, decrease pain, and inhibit bacterial growth! All these marvelous enzymes and compounds, along with their benefits, are listed in her article on Vetstreet.
Potential Consequences
However, while a little licking may be beneficial, dogs seem to overdo it and even get obsessive about it. Too much licking, along with the abrasive effect of the teeth should the dog nibble on the wound too, may lead to problems.
Also, a wound kept moist by constant licking will create the best environment for bacteria to set in and prevents the wound from healing. Soon, a tiny wound could become a bloody mess and may develop into a hard-to-heal acral lick granuloma. A wound that would heal in a few days instead may last for weeks and even months in severe cases. How to stop the vicious cycle? There are several options to consider, including these 5.
Option 1: Invest in a Elizabethan Collar
One of the best ways comes straight from your veterinarian clinic or favorite pet store. As a former animal hospital assistant, I have helped countless dog owners fit those lamp-shade collars to protect a dog from pestering its stitches. Many dogs found the collar humiliating, and many owners found it funny. Truth is, it is effective and can really help prevent your dog from repeatedly pestering the wound. However, some smart/persistent dogs may figure out a way to get it off (they push it against something) or may find a way to chew part of it.
If you need a temporary Elizabeth collar, you may want to read how to make a homemade Elizabethan collar using a bucket, an ice cream container or some cardboard. See how I made a temporary e-collar using a Finding Nemo placemat. This one lasted one night, just enough to get my boy through before purchasing an authentic one at the vet's office the next day!
Option 2: Invest in a Bottle of Bitter Yuk!
Not all dogs are tolerant of an Elizabethan Collar, and some manage to find a way to get it off. If you need to leave your dog home alone and you really need to stop your dog from pestering the wound, you can invest in a bottle of Bitter Yuk.
This is what I have been using on my dog Kaiser which every summer gets an annoying hot spot that lasts longer than it's supposed to because the moment I leave (as soon as he hears the engine), he starts chewing on it—I know because I recorded his behavior.
The taste is pretty awful; I know because I accidentally sprayed a bit on my lip by accident, and it is three days, and I still taste it if I lick my lip. Kaiser has left his wound alone so far; I do see him thinking about it, though, turning his head and then changing his mind as if he is reminding himself of the terrible taste. The hot spot seems like it is finally recovering too. I always shave hot spots to keep them dry and to allow them to heal more promptly.
A shirt will often prevent your dog from licking or chewing a wound.
alexadry all rights reserved
Option 3: Use Boxers or a T-Shirt
At times, dog owners were calling our veterinarian hospital asking for desperate tips to stop a dog from licking its wounds. In such cases, if the wound or stitches was near the back legs, rump, tail, or genital area, and the dog could not be seen that same day, we recommended letting the dog wear a pair of men's boxers. If the wound was in the abdominal or chest area, wearing a t-shirt was another option. Of course, an eye must be kept on the dog since many dogs are pretty good at removing these items, but the boxers or shirts made the task more difficult.
Option 4: Train "Leave It"
The leave it command, which every dog should know, can be expanded to training a dog to leave its wounds alone. Of course, this command will only work when you are around. The main disadvantage is the fact that your dog starts associating "leave it" with your presence, and therefore, the moment you turn your back, leave the room, or leave home, your dog will start pestering the wound. Make sure when you ask, "leave it" to give a stuffed Kong or a toy to keep your dog occupied and keep his mind off the wound.
Option 5: Ask Your Vet for Itch Relief Products
Many times, the poor dog licks/chews the wound because his skin is itchy. In such a case, the dog can be helped with some products meant to relieve itching. Your vet may prescribe a product such as diphenhydramine (plain Benadryl), a cortisone-based spray, medicated shampoo, or even steroids for severe cases. For natural remedies, Dr. Mark1961 has a helpful article: Natural Dog Health: Allergies.
As seen, there may be potential solutions to your problem. As much as the problem is frustrating, you can manage your dog with close supervision when you are around and the aid of helpful tools to deter unwanted licking and chewing of the wound when you are away.
Further Reading
- Dog Health: Why Foxtails Are a Threat to Your Dog
What dangers do foxtails pose to dogs? The answer is many! Learn what symptoms suggest these grass awns are embedding and why it is important to immediately see the vet. - Why Is My Dog Licking Its Paws?
It is a very frustrating scenario to watch when your dog starts licking its paws incessantly, especially when your dog loses interest in its surroundings. Yet, dogs, more often than not, have a specific reason for engaging is such behavior. - How to Treat a Dog's Paw Pad Injury
A paw pad injury may be a challenging injury to deal with. Because the area supports a dog's weight and because it is used in order to walk, it will undergo constant friction and pressure and also it will be difficult to keep clean.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
© 2012 Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST
Comments
Stephanie on August 27, 2018:
I have 2 dobermanns and an American Staffy. My female dobermann got attacked by a cat and has a wound above her eye, beside her eyebrow, that my other 2 dogs have been licking at. I have tried bandaging it but she either pulls them off or refuses to move. A cone does nothing because it's other dogs doing the licking. Is bitter yuk safe to use that close to the eye? If not, what can I safely use to stop my other dogs from licking her wound?
*Note- Total separation is not possible 100% of the time.
KC on June 12, 2018:
How do you feel about tea tree oil
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on April 22, 2018:
I would suggest seeing your vet, it could be your dog has joint pain or some underlying issue that is not visible but needs addressed.
Me on April 09, 2018:
What can I put on my dog he’s licking his hind leg in one spot until but there is nothing there it’s like he’s doing it out of habit
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on March 17, 2018:
I am so sorry to hear about your dog! What a terrible ordeal to go through. Your dog is at serious risk for systemic infection. You can try to apply for Care Credit and see if that can help. Explain your situation as well to several shelters around you.
Daddski 1 on February 23, 2018:
My dog hurt her leg a few days ago. I t swelled up terribly bad and she started licking at it above her paw. She licked it and chewed ot raw. I put a collar on her and the cone of shame. Somehow during the night she got it off and we heard her scream and not stop about 5 in the morning. We ran to her and she has chewed her leg completely in half. Bone is sticking out and she chewed that in half as well. She was attacking her leg and the scream we heard was her pain and anger at hurting and attacking more. I got her calmed down and pulled her head away from her now destroyed lower leg. I called vets, animal hospitals and finally the spca here because they have a vet and a surgery clinic for k9's. Get this. ALL REFUSED TO HELP ME. Even the spca. Because I am a disabled veteran and get money one time a month, and cannot get th pet insurance because i got in a hole when I couldnt work any more, I could not pay in advance but could pay on the first. they all basically said tuff luck. figure something out yourself. What the hell has happened to vets when they choose money over an animal in pain? I supported the spca for years, i shop at their giant thrift store that makes them on average a hundred thousand dollars A MONTH. still they refuse to help.Now I am stuck and my poor dog is stuck. What do I do? Put her down? she is just 2 years old and a twin sister. she is like my kids to us. right now she is sedated luckily from a past injury med. but that is gone as well now...
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on January 29, 2018:
Jill, have you tried an Elizabethan Collar?
Jill on January 26, 2018:
My Lab has a bad neck so cones are out. She has a sore on her back leg that she has made really bad. She will eat anything that we have tried to cover it with.Bandages, socks, t-shirt, long dog boot. Everything will get eaten and has in the past. We can't watch her 24/7 we need to sleep and in seconds she is at her leg.Help!
Desperate Bichon owner on July 11, 2017:
I have tried many things to make my Bichon stop licking her legs. Buying a long sleeve onies & cutting off snaps seemed like a great idea but she figured out how to get it off. I even tried crocheting covers for her legs with straps tied to her collar. So far it's working. I tried orejel but she licks it off. I need a spray that REALLY WORKS
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on April 09, 2017:
Thanks Diana for sharing your tip.
Diana on April 09, 2017:
I used a toddler crew sock...cut of the toe and pulled over my little Maltese that had ligament knee surgery. It allows the incision to breathe and he hasn't pulled it off
I think this will work! Thank you...thank you St. Francis
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on March 15, 2017:
I am not sure what powder you are using, but bitter yuk can be used in the fur around the wound in lieu of cone but only if you're actively watching.
Mary on March 14, 2017:
My 10 y.o. Cockatoo has licked and chewed his hind paws until one became infected. Antibiotics help but his chewing is ongoing & so we use the cone except when we put him next to/on us and watch him constantly! He is sad when wearing the cone & we feel so guilty snapping cone onto him. Can I use the bitter yuk while cone is off & the powder when on?
Mercedes on October 30, 2016:
My black lab has an open wound near his right arm pit and it looks infected and he won't stop licking it. Will the infection get worst?
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on August 15, 2012:
thank you Afriqnet for stopping by, I really appreciate it especially from a vet!
Joe Njenga from Nairobi Kenya on August 15, 2012:
Alexa,
Thanks for your resourceful Hub on Elizabethan Collar and other alternative ways to stop dogs from linking wounds. Its is very necessary to stop this behavior since it can lead to secondary wound infections. I highly recommend these alternative ways you discussed in this hub. Thank you for sharing.
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on July 23, 2012:
Hope it works for you! Best wishes!
Jaye Denman from Deep South, USA on July 23, 2012:
Thanks for the suggestions. I'm trying to distract her every time I use the ointment until it has time to "melt" and cover the eye.
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on July 23, 2012:
Definitely skip any bitter spray if there are chances of it going in the eye. Perhaps, stuff her a Kong with some goodies to keep her mind off rubbing the eyes and giving just about enough time to allow the product to works its way? Or even take her on a walk so she is distracted? Or do it right before feeding her a bowl of food, Just a few ideas that come to mind.
Jaye Denman from Deep South, USA on July 23, 2012:
My dog is currently being treated for extreme dry eye, and it's possible her tear ducts have stopped producing adequate fluid. She hates the ointment that I must put in her eyes twice daily, and rubs at her eyes with her paws, then licks her paws. An E-collar wouldn't stop that, but I do have some of the bitter-tasting spray, though I'm afraid if I put it on her paws she would get it into her eyes, which are already very inflamed. Sort of a no-win situation!
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on July 22, 2012:
Diana Lee, I have tried Gold Bond and it is truly effective, especially after you shave the area well. Thanks for stopping by!
Adrienne Farricelli CPDT-KA, Dip.CBST (author) from USA on July 22, 2012:
Lol, that's my girl...my mom actually was making her a "dress" for a Canine Musical Freestyle demo we were having and was having fun fitting a dress on her. I did not approve it though because it impaired movement and I do not like dressed up dogs. My mom though had a blast and I thought it made a cute picture, lol!
wetnosedogs from Alabama on July 22, 2012:
I will have to remember the Bitter Yuk. When Roscoe got a hot spot, the vet shaved the area and told me to put hydrogen peroxide on it. He continually licked it off. I was also giving him baths of hydrocortisone itch relief shampoo. Then I went back to using Gold Bond Foot powder on him and he then healed up well.
Your dog looks adorable in the t-shirt, like he wants to play football!
Maria Cecilia from Philippines on July 22, 2012:
OH the E collar, I am planning to use that to my dog again, his medicine is expensive but because he is licking his wound when I am not around, his wound is as fresh as ever.....it's like going back to Zero now because I know I will insist this collar to him again
Diana L Pierce from Potter County, Pa. on July 22, 2012:
These are good tips. Medicated powder helps with itchy skin problems also and it doesn't sting. Gold Bond medicated powder and off brands like it keep them from scatching themselves.
