just chilling on the couch, and I noticed Bella’s been licking herself nonstop lately and her breath's kinda funky. Not sure if this is dumb, but is this a thing? Should I be worried or is it just a quirky dog phase?

Hey there! So, Bella’s licking herself quite a bit and her breath's a bit off — that sounds like something worth checking out, but no need to panic just yet. Dogs licking themselves can be a sign of allergies, skin irritation, or something as simple as being bored. The funky breath might just be a sign of dental issues or maybe something she ate.

Here’s what you can look for:

• Red or irritated skin where she’s licking.
• Any bumps, rashes, or bald spots.
• Check her teeth and gums for redness, swelling, or anything unusual.

When to be more concerned:

• If the skin looks infected (really red, swollen, or pus).
• Her breath smells very foul, which could indicate something like a tooth abscess.
• If she seems to be in pain, lethargic, or not eating.

For now, you can try:

• Gently cleaning the area she's licking with mild, pet-safe soap and water to ease irritation.
• Ensure she has plenty of chew toys to help with dental health.
• Keep an eye on her for any changes or worsening of symptoms.

If it’s just some quirky behavior, it might pass, but definitely contact a vet if she’s uncomfortable or things aren’t improving.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.