Licking

Hey Heidi,

Have you tried distracting him when he licks? Give him a chew toy or any toy. If he starts licking you, do you remove whatever bodypart he's licking, and say "no"? Tell your guests not to let him lick them. Try turning your back to him when he starts, saying "no" or "enough", and ignoring him.

When you catch him licking himself, try startling him with a loud noise or sudden action. This can work really well for deterring dogs from doing any unwanted behaviour.

You're going to have to pay close attention to him, and be sure to try and catch him everytime he licks, otherwise training him not to will take longer and may not be as successful.

It is true that some dogs develop a psychological tendancy to lick all the time, and it can be bad for their health. It might help to try and reduce any source of anxiety from his life, or any stressors that might be setting this behaviour off. Be stern when you catch him licking, but when he stops make sure he knows its a really good thing!