Dog Licking Window: Why and How to Get It Away?

It is hilarious when you see your dog loves licking windows, especially glass windows, for no reason, and you may wonder if that affects its health. This is common to see among dogs, and you don’t need to worry about it for the first time.

But suppose the dog keeps doing it occasionally. In that case, you should do something to prevent him from doing that because it can lead to severe health concerns for your dog. So, in this article, we will discuss why your dog keeps licking windows and what you should do when that happens regularly.

Why does Dog Licking Window?

As we’ve mentioned, some common possible reasons exist for this issue. Let’s examine those common reasons.

Curiosity and Exploration

Dogs explore the world, primarily through taste and smell. A window may carry attractive scents from outside or the materials used to clean it. Licking is one-way dogs can investigate these new smells and textures, satisfying their curiosity about the world around them.

Attention-Seeking Behavior

Suppose a dog notices that licking the window gets a reaction from its owner, such as laughing or talking to them. In that case, the dog might continue the behavior to get attention. Dogs often repeat actions that result in a response, even if the attention is a simple acknowledgment.

If your dog keeps doing it for this reason, just give him some attention, and your problem will be fixed as soon as possible.

Anxiety or Stress

Licking is an expected self-soothing behavior for dogs. If your dog is anxious or stressed, it may lick the window to calm down, which could be in response to separation anxiety, loud noises, or environmental changes.

So, you have to ensure your dog is not under any physical or mental stress that is bad for its health. If you feel something is wrong with it, bringing him to a veterinarian will be a good solution.

Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior

In some cases, repetitive behaviors like licking windows can develop into an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in dogs, so this could be due to stress, anxiety, or even boredom. 

Enjoyment of the Taste or Sensation

Dogs might simply enjoy the taste or sensation of licking the glass. Some cleaning products or residues left on the glass might appeal to a dog’s taste buds, or they might lick the smooth, excellent surface.

If your dog’s window-licking behavior becomes excessive or seems linked to stress, consult a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist to rule out any underlying issues and find appropriate solutions.

Dog Licking Window; How to Stop?

If your dog keeps licking windows, here’s how you can help them stop. First, figure out why they’re doing it. Sometimes, dogs lick windows because they’re bored or have too much energy. In this case, try giving them more exercise, like extra walks or playtime. Puzzle toys that keep their minds busy can also help.

If your dog is licking because it’s anxious or stressed, try to relax its environment. Stick to a regular routine, and you might want to use calming products like special sprays or diffuses to help it feel more at ease.

When you see your dog licking the window, gently stop it and give it something else to do, like a chew toy or a treat. You can also teach it simple commands like “no” or “leave it” to tell it that licking the window isn’t okay.

Keeping your windows clean is essential so nothing on the glass might attract your dog. If the licking doesn’t stop or seems like a habit they can’t control, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet or a dog trainer. They can help determine what’s happening and suggest the best ways to help your dog.

What are other uncommon Dog behaviors and causes?

There are some other, uncommon dog behaviors that dogs show when they are not in good mood, and the below are some of those behaviors and causes for them .

Licking Floors or Furniture

When a dog licks the floor or furniture, they might be trying to taste or smell something interesting left behind. Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and even if you can’t see anything, they might detect a tiny crumb or residue.

Sometimes, licking is a way for dogs to soothe themselves if they’re feeling anxious or stressed. They might also do it because they’re bored and looking for something to do. If they notice that licking gets your attention, they might continue doing it just to interact with you.

Chewing on Objects (like shoes or furniture)

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, especially puppies who are teething and need to relieve the discomfort in their gums. For adult dogs, chewing can be a way to keep busy or release pent-up energy. Suppose a dog is left alone for long periods without toys or things to do.

In that case, they might start chewing on whatever is available—like your shoes or furniture. Sometimes, dogs chew because they’re anxious, and it helps them feel calmer, similar to how some people bite their nails.

Pacing or Walking in Circles

Pacing or walking in circles can happen when a dog feels nervous, excited, or anxious. For example, a dog might pace back and forth if they’re waiting for you to come home or if they hear a loud noise that makes them uneasy.

Some dogs pace when they’re full of energy and don’t know how to release it. In older dogs, pacing can sometimes be a sign of cognitive issues, so it’s good to check with a vet if it’s happening a lot.

Digging

Digging is a common behavior in many dogs, especially certain breeds that were originally bred for hunting or digging. Dogs might dig to create a cool spot to lie down on a hot day, to hide toys or bones, or just because it’s fun for them.

If a dog is bored or has a lot of energy, they might start digging as a way to entertain themselves. It’s also a way for them to follow their natural instincts, like if they’re trying to catch a small animal or get to something buried in the ground.

Excessive Barking

Barking is one of the main ways dogs communicate. They might bark to alert you to something unusual, like a stranger at the door or if they hear a noise outside. Dogs also bark when they’re excited, like when you come home or when they want to play.

If a dog is bored, lonely, or anxious, they might bark just to express their feelings or to get your attention. Some dogs bark a lot because they’ve learned that it gets them what they want, like attention, food, or playtime.

Conclusion about Dog Licking Window

These behaviors are all ways that dogs try to express themselves or deal with their feelings and environment. Often, these behaviors are normal but can become problematic if they’re excessive. Understanding why your dog is doing something is the first step in helping them feel better or redirecting their behavior in a positive way. Providing enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention can help reduce these behaviors and keep your dog happy and healthy.