licking wood

Question
our 4yr old lhasa licks varnished wood- is he lacking something? he is well exercised and is perfect in every way , we just wondered.

Answer
Hi Bobbi,

A habit of licking can be a sign of boredom, or there might be an animal hide glue used in the wood that's attracting your dog to lick.

Once a dog develops a habit of any kind, it can be hard to break. Sometimes it helps to give the dog a spritz with a water pistol or spray bottle the instant he starts licking. As you spray, tell him "NO LICK!" (or whatever phrase you please). An empty tin can with a few pennies inside would work well too. Shake the can vigorously and loudly when you see him licking, while giving the same "NO LICK!" command. The instant he stops licking, praise your dog, and give him a treat.

If you're consistent in correcting your dog with this method, he should learn that licking isn't what you'd prefer.

Best of luck,
Patti