While this behavior might seem a bit strange, there can be multiple reasons behind it that you shouldn’t overlook.
Dogtopia’s Veterinarian, Dr. Antje Joslin, spoke with Kinship to discuss why dogs may behave like this. She points to several reasons, including that they like how the couch smells and tastes, they’re bored, or they’re trying to get their pet parents’ attention. However, there could be a deeper meaning. “Licking can be a self-soothing behavior, similar to how some people bite their nails. It may help relieve anxiety or stress,” she explains.
Dogs (unfortunately) can’t communicate with words, so they may use their tongue to help express what they’re thinking and feeling and to understand their environment. Your pup may be licking the couch as a way to investigate their surroundings, which can be a natural instinct, but it can veer into obsession if you find distractions aren’t pulling them away.
