Our seven month old Shih Tzu has started licking air and then everything else in her reach. She doesn't seem to have any control over the action. It isn't constant (thank goodness)and it seemed to begin after she was spayed. She is active and doesn't seem to be in any pain. It happens four or fives during the day, any suggestions or advice?

Gini in FL

My dog Mathan, a 5 year old toy poodle, also does this....I can't remember when the behavior started, but I'm pretty sure it's a nervous thing, since he does it a lot more when he's nervous (lots of things going on at once, new people, when he doesn't know what to do with himself). It could be the same kind of thing going on with your dog.....usually, if I pay him a little attention, he stops licking.

Originally Posted by gdukey

Our seven month old Shih Tzu has started licking air and then everything else in her reach. She doesn't seem to have any control over the action. It isn't constant (thank goodness)and it seemed to begin after she was spayed. She is active and doesn't seem to be in any pain. It happens four or fives during the day, any suggestions or advice?

Gini in FL

I have a 5 year old Maltese who does this as well. I also considered that it was likely nerves. She's been doing this for a couple of years now. It's a bit annoying and I'm sure she doesn't like it much either. I'm taking her to the vet for nervous issues tomorrow and will ask about the constant licking. If I get any info, I'll post it here.