Why Dogs Lick Wounds and Does It Help Healing?
The saying “retreating to lick one’s wounds” comes from watching animals like cats and dogs instinctively lick their injuries to soothe themselves and clean the affected skin.
This instinctive behavior is so common that veterinarians often recommend using an Elizabethan collar (commonly called a “cone”) after surgery to stop dogs from licking wounds, because while licking may offer a few healing benefits, it also poses some health risks.
In this article, we dive into why dogs lick wounds, the potential healing properties, the dangers involved, and practical advice for responsible wound care to help your dog recover safely.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Wounds?
Dogs lick wounds as a natural way to relieve pain, remove debris, and clean the injury. Unlike people, dogs rely on their mouths for grooming and exploring because they don’t have fingers. The act of licking is also comforting for them, helping reduce stress and calm discomfort after an injury.
Licking can also help cool inflammation and lessen the irritation around the injured area, providing temporary relief.
Can Dogs’ Saliva and Licking Promote Healing?
Dog saliva contains natural compounds such as thrombospondin, lactoferrin, cystatins, lysozyme, and peroxidase, known to have mild antibacterial and antiviral effects that might lower certain bacterial loads on wounds. It also has growth factors and opiorphin, a natural painkiller, which may aid faster healing.
Moderate licking can help clear away dirt and stimulate blood flow, which might support the healing process to some degree.
Health Risks of Letting Dogs Lick Their Wounds
Despite the mild benefits, dog saliva is not sterile and harbors lots of bacteria, including harmful types that can cause wound infections. Dogs also often lick dirty areas contaminated with feces or soil, increasing the chance of introducing bacteria into wounds if licking is allowed.
Over-licking wounds can irritate the skin, delay healing by removing protective scabs, and even cause damage to stitches after surgery, potentially worsening the injury.
Should You Allow Your Dog to Lick Their Wounds?
Most American veterinarians advise preventing dogs from licking wounds to reduce infection risks and encourage faster recovery. Using an Elizabethan collar or other barrier devices is common after surgeries or injuries, alongside following your veterinarian’s wound care instructions closely.
If you notice redness, swelling, discharge, or if your dog appears in pain at the wound site, seek veterinary care promptly to avoid complications.
Proper Steps to Care for Your Dog’s Wounds
- Evaluate the wound’s severity: For deep, bleeding, or serious wounds, contact your veterinarian immediately. Small scrapes and cuts might be treated at home with care.
- Stop the bleeding: Use gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until bleeding subsides. Bandage if necessary.
- Clean the wound: Rinse with warm saline or dog-safe antiseptics. Avoid harsh substances like hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol as they can harm healthy tissue.
- Apply treatment and safeguard: Use veterinarian-approved antibacterial ointments and cover with a sterile bandage. Employ an Elizabethan collar when needed to prevent licking.
- Watch the healing process: Change dressings regularly, observe for infection signs, and follow up with your vet if healing is slow or the wound worsens.
By responsibly managing wound care and discouraging licking, you help ensure a quicker and safer recovery for your dog.
Remember, even though a dog’s instinct to lick wounds is natural, careful attention and guidance from your veterinarian are essential to protect their health and comfort.
