my dog keeps licking the floor nonstop, especially after dinner. I'm worried he might be trying to tell me something. Does anyone know why he might be doing this? Should I be concerned?

Hi there! I totally understand why you're worried about your pup licking the floor—it can be quite puzzling and concerning. Dogs often lick the floor for a few reasons, such as trying to clean up crumbs, digestive discomfort, anxiety, or it may even be a compulsive behavior. After dinner, licking can sometimes be a sign of dietary indiscretion or an upset tummy. Let's go over a few things to keep an eye on:

• Watch for any signs like vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or a decrease in appetite. These could indicate that your dog might have eaten something that's not sitting well.
• If your dog seems restless, is excessively panting, drooling, or stretches a lot like they're trying to ease some stomach pain, keep a closer eye on them.

Most times, if your dog is otherwise acting normally and not showing any distress, it's okay to monitor them for a bit. However, if they display any alarming symptoms like those mentioned above, it’s time to get in touch with your vet sooner rather than later. Also, if your pup gobbled up something potentially toxic like chocolate, grapes, or medications, that would be an emergency situation, and you'd need to contact your vet immediately.

At home, you can ensure there's nothing harmful on the floor they might be licking up and try to distract them with a toy. If they seem distressed or uncomfortable, offering a small amount of plain, cooked rice and boiled chicken might help soothe their tummy. Keep fresh water available too, as staying hydrated is important.

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.