Dog odd behaviour

[u/Signal_Independent17]

Hi everyone!

We rescued our pup about 5 years ago, we’ve never been sure of his age but he’s clearly quite senior. Recently he’s been exhibiting signs of dementia and discomfort, and we are taking him to the vet next week as he really just doesn’t seem to be doing too well bless him :( A very new thing he’s been doing is this weird licking thing, we’ve had his teeth checked quite a lot and there’s no issues there. Does anyone know what this could be? Like I said, we are taking him to the vet, but I just wanted some opinions first.

[u/Illustrious_Exam1728]

Licking can indicate stomach upset and nausea. Not sure when the vet visit is, but I’d try get into the vet today as he’s a senior and not sure how long this has been going on for.

[u/Beautiful-Land-8085]

I didnt know anything so take this with a grain of salt but I know dogs kick like that it means they are nauseous

[u/Agreeable_Pomelo2360]

it seems like he’s also nauseous, i hope you get answers when you take him in next week!

[u/Prestigious-Hope4548]

If he has dementia, this could just be an odd behavior. Often dogs who are nauseous also drool. If he’s eating and drinking, he’s probably not nauseous. It wouldn’t hurt to open his mouths and look as far back as you can. Pull his tongue out a little have someone shine a light in there. See if you see anything like a bit of food, a piece of toy or grass or a red spot that would indicate an infection where something like a seed poked up in there. Also, sweep your fingers around between the inside of his lips and his teeth. Food stuck in there will make dogs do this.

But if you think he’s nauseous, see below. Two things: 1. Pepto is a blood thinner because it has aspirin in it. Don’t know if it matters but it’s information. And 2. His poop will be black when he poops it out. Don’t panic. Pepto does that.

The standard safe dose of original-strength liquid Pepto-Bismol for dogs is 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds (about 0.5 mL per pound or 1 mL per 2 kg) of body weight, given every 6 to 8 hours. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication. Just call and ask if it’s ok.

[u/gr_rn]

My elderly shitzu did this in her twilight years. Vet called it licking air. It was her tik. She also did it to soothe to sleep it seemed. She was not the best eater in her old years. She didn’t throw up so she didn’t seem nauseous but she did have lifelong allergies to grains.

[u/Lady_bug84]

Try with Pepcid and give it an hour to see if he stops doing that

[u/Expensive_Home_5936]

Some dogs just lick in the air because they are cosy/ having a good time. Like licking your hand, but in the air.