What's going on when dogs lick the ground?

Dogs licking the ground may be due to reasons such as lack of trace elements, food debris on the ground, or ingestion of foreign objects.

1. Lack of trace elements: If a dog often licks the ground lately, it's likely due to a lack of trace elements, which can lead to pica, resulting in abnormal behaviors such as licking the ground, walls, or even eating its own feces.

2. Food debris on the ground: Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and if there are food debris or residual smells on the ground, they will be attracted to lick them. Therefore, owners should always clean up and disinfect any food debris on the ground, as there are many bacteria that could cause digestive tract diseases if eaten by the dog.

3. Ingestion of foreign objects: If a dog licks the ground and shows symptoms such as swallowing saliva, low energy, poor appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, it may be due to ingesting foreign objects like plastic bags, rubber bands, or bones, which cause abdominal discomfort. In this case, it tries to vomit the object by licking the ground. Owners should take the dog to a pet hospital for an X-ray to determine the size and location of the foreign object, and then decide on the method to remove it.

In summary, if your dog is constantly licking the ground, it's essential to address the underlying cause and take appropriate action. Whether it's supplementing trace elements, cleaning food debris, or seeking veterinary assistance, it's crucial to ensure your dog's health and wellbeing.