English Bulldog

Question
My 3 year old neutered male English Bulldog has begun licking the wall until it creates a "hole" in the drywall.  He has been doing it if we are in a room and the door is shut so that he cannot go in, usually while we are in there talking.  Not at night when we're sleeping.  How can I train him not to lick the wall?  It is ruining my house!  

Answer
This is barrier frustration; the dog is anxious because he is separated from you when he can clearly hear you are awake and interacting.

I suggest you find a comfortable, safe confinement area for the dog where he can remain when you are out or otherwise engaged in the home.  This can be the kitchen area with strong baby gate, soft bed, water, an interesting toy (such as a buster cube which dispenses a portion of the dog's two daily meals as the dog rolls it around) and even a kong with a tiny bit of peanut butter stuffed into it.  The dog can be introduced to this area for small intervals during the day with no special announcement or preparedness: just put him in there, casually close the gate.  When you release him, same thing: no special announcement, be casual.  The dog should be able to develop some emotional distance so that you will be able to spend time in your home without his presence.  The only thing that will prevent this from developing is your anxiety: worrying that the dog will "not like" his confinement area, feel "left out", etc. will communicate to the dog.  In dog culture, a psychologically 'dominant' member of the environment is unapproachable at will.  Your dog may be anxious because there is no clearcut delineation of structure.  Calm, consistent leadership always produces a calmer, more well adjusted dog.  You can learn about positive reinforcement training and dog psychology by visiting Dr. Ian Dunbar's site, DogStarDaily.com, or reading his book, "Dog Behavior: An owner's Guide to a Happy, Healthy Pet".