Root identification causes of groin licking in dogs for effective treatment and care
Index:
- Introduction
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Common Reasons Dogs Lick Their Groin
2.1 Muscle Sprain or Injury
2.2 Lumbar or Sacral Spinal Injury or Misalignment
2.3 Urinary Bladder Issues
2.4 Hernia and Genital Concerns
2.5 Other Possible Reasons - Management of Skin Itching and Inflammation from Licking
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Summary of Recommendations
1. Introduction
If your dog or puppy is constantly licking their belly or groin area, it’s natural to be concerned and wonder why From my training experience, most people naturally jump to the conclusion that their pet has skin problems, an infection, allergyor bitten.
While these are all possibilities, your dog’s constant licking could be their way of signaling pain and discomfort in the area due to injury, inflammation, or possible bladder issues — which is really the most common reason.
To avoid going on a wild goose chase trying to solve your dog’s problem, it’s important to identify the cause and seek appropriate remedies.
In this article, I investigate the most common causes of groin licking in dogs and cats, recommend supplements to aid in their recovery, and share tips on how to manage skin irritation, inflammation, and provide link to other articles about skin allergies and hot spots.
2. Common Reasons Dogs Lick Their Groin
2.1 Muscle Sprain or Injury
Dogs are active animals, and muscle injuries, including groin muscles, such as the adductor (responsible for adducting the leg), and illio-psoas muscles. These muscles can become sprained and swollen due to injury, or from excessive one-sided exercise such as chasing a ball, jumping, or any repetitive exercise that is off balance.
To detect such injuries, you can touch and feel deeper tissue in the groin and inner thighs. Your dog may scream, panic, or react violently if it hurts.
Recommended first aid:
- If your dog seems to be in pain, is sensitive to touch, or is limping, do your best to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) because they can cause a variety of problems from gastrointestinal bleeding to liver and kidney damage.
- Rest your dog for at least 3 days or longer if necessary, and give your dog triple the regular dose of FeelGood Omega-3, rich in EPA and DHA, essential fatty acids with strong anti-inflammatory effects.
- Administer homeopathic Arnica 30C or 200C three times daily for 3 days. If you have a higher potency like 1M, give two doses per day for 3 days.
2.2 Lumbar or Sacral Spinal Injury or Misalignment
Lumbar back and spinal injuries or misalignment can lead to nerve impingement and abnormal skin sensations in the groin.
Such injuries are often caused by overuse or repetitive strain.
Solution:
Follow the steps above and consult a professional with expertise in spinal adjustments, physical therapy or acupuncture.
2.3 Urinary Bladder Issues
Urinary tract infectionsinflammation of the bladder, stonesor a rare form of it could be cancer cause the dog to lick their groin.
Solution:
If the issue is not resolved after meeting the above steps, have your dog’s urine and blood tested and consider an ultrasound examination if urinary stones are suspected. Skin Sensation, Itching, and Allergies
Allergies are often overdiagnosed while muscular skeletal issues are overlooked. If you apply the recommendations from above and the problem is not solved, you may need to refer to my allergy article.
2.4 Hernia and Genital Concerns
Hernias can also cause your dog to notice their groin. Check for a bulging hernia and consult your vet.
2.5 Other possible causes
Other causes of belly licking may be insects, fleas, mosquitoes, irritation from sharp grass, or hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease.
If your dog continues to lick, a careful evaluation by a veterinarian and a spinal alignment practitioner is key to making the right decisions.
3. Management of Itchy Skin and Inflammation from Licking
While you resolve the underlying causes, it is important to prevent your dog from licking the affected area for the time being.
If your dog continues to traumatize the skin, use a T-shirt or an inflatable collar to restrict their ability to access the area.
Excessive licking often leads to yeast or bacterial skin infections.
In such cases, use herbs Skin Spray Formula to reduce redness and swelling, and follow hot spot protocol as needed.
For any dogs suffering from groin and belly licking, consider adjusting their diet and companionship. the Fab4 supplements as recommended in our free natural diet video course and Recipe Maker. Improving your dog’s overall health can solve many stubborn health problems.
Understanding the root cause of your dog’s groin licking is important in order to provide them with the best care and relief. By identifying the issue, seeking professional help if necessary, and using supplements and remedies, you can effectively address your dog’s condition.
4. Summary of holistic recommendations for groin licking in dogs:
- For muscle sprains or injuries: Give Arnica 30C or 200C, and a sustainable Omega-3 supplementst free from heavy metals.
- For lumbar or sacral spinal injuries: Consult a professional in spinal adjustments, physical therapy, or acupuncture.
- For urinary bladder issues: Have your dog’s urine and blood tested.
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For skin sensations, itching, and allergies: Refer to our article on allergies in dogs.
- For hernias and genital concerns: Check for hernia bulges and consult your veterinarian.
- To manage skin irritation and inflammation: Use a T-shirt or inflatable collar and apply Herbal Skin Spray.
- Adjust your dog’s diet and exercise the Fab4 supplements as recommended for free natural diet video course and the Recipe Maker.
