Some dogs self-soothe by sucking their flanks. This might be harmless, but it can turn into a compulsive behavior.
When nursing puppies are weaned from their mothers, some will still seek out objects they can suck on as a way to self-soothe. This behavior normally disappears when the pup matures, but some dogs continue to suck on their own flanks or objects, such as blankets, into adulthood.
"Flank sucking" is more prevalent among certain breeds such as Doberman pinschers and Weimaraners.
Sometimes, flank sucking is harmless, causing no issue for either dog or their guardian. Typically, If your dog has developed a habit of sucking her flank or another object and she’s not outgrowing it, try these tips to redirect her to other self-soothing activities.
- Have your veterinarian do a full medical exam to rule out pain or other medical conditions. Dogs will sometimes bite at, lick, or suck an area of the body that is causing them pain or discomfort. In some cases, a dog will suck her flank even if the pain is in another part of her body. Sucking and licking soothes the dog, even if she is licking a seemingly unrelated area. This behavior usually does not require intervention unless the sucking causes a wound on your dog’s body. If the licking and sucking is creating irritation, redness or a wound, treat the wound appropriately and prevent the behavior from occurring by supervising your dog and redirecting her onto something more positive.
- Provide your dog with bones, chews, fillable food toys or lick mats and redirect her to these items to replace flank sucking. Be consistent and patient as she learns the new behavior, and keep chew items readily available.
If you are unable to supervise your dog and the dog’s sucking is harming her body, a surgical collar worn around the head is one of the best ways to deter her from indulging in the behavior while you are absent.
