Skip to content
Previous article
Now Reading:
Why is my dog licking their groin area? Top reasons and solutions

Why is my dog licking their groin area? Top reasons and solutions

Identifying the root cause of groin licking in dogs for effective relief and care

Index:

  1. Introduction
  2. 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 Hernias and Genital Concerns
    2.5 Other Possible Causes
  3. Managing Skin Irritation and Inflammation from Licking
  4. Summary of Recommendations 

1. Introduction

If your dog or puppy keeps licking their abdomen or groin area, it is natural to worry and wonder why. From my experience in practice, most people naturally jump to the conclusion that their pet has skin problems, an infection, allergies, or was bitten.

While these are all possibilities, your dog's persistent licking could be their way of signalling pain and discomfort in the area due to injury, inflammation, or possibly even bladder issues — which is actually the most common cause.

To avoid going on a wild goose chase trying to solve your dog's problem, it’s crucial to identify the cause and seek appropriate remedies.

In this article, I delve into the most common reasons for groin licking in dogs and cats, recommend supplements to aid their recovery, and share tips on how to manage skin irritation, inflammation, and provide links to other articles on 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 moving the leg in), and illio-psoas muscles. These muscles may be sprained and inflamed due to injury, or from excessive one-sided exercise such as ball chasing, jumping up, or any repetitive exercise that is out of balance.

To detect such injuries, you can touch and feel the deeper tissue in the groin and inner thighs. Your dog may yelp, flinch, or react strongly if sore.

Recommended first aid:

  • If your dog seems to be in pain, is sensitive to touch, or limping, do your best to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as they can cause an array 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 a triple the regular dose of FeelGood Omega-3, rich in EPA and DHA, the essential fatty acids with powerful anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Administer homeopathic Arnica 30C or 200C three times daily for 3 days. If you have a higher potency such as 1M, give two doses per day for 3 days.

2.2 Lumbar or Sacral Spinal Injury or Misalignment

Lumbar region back and spinal injuries or misalignment can lead to nerve impingement and abnormal skin sensations in the groin.

Such injuries are often caused by excessive or repetitive injuries.

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 infections, bladder inflammation, stones, or a rare form of cancer may cause a dog to lick their groin.

Solution:   

If the issue is not resolved after addressing the above-mentioned steps, have your dog's urine and blood work tested and consider an ultrasound examination if urinary stones are suspected. Skin Sensation, Itching, and Allergies

Allergies are often over diagnosed while muscular skeletal issues are overlooked. If you apply the recommendations from above and the problem doesn’t resolve, you may need to refer to my article on allergies.

2.4 Hernias and Genital Concerns

Hernias may also cause your dog to pay attention to their groin area. Check for any hernia bulges and consult your veterinarian.

2.5 Other possible causes

Other causes of abdominal licking may be insects, fleas, mosquitoes, sharp grass irritation, or hormonal diseases like hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease.

If your dog continues licking, careful examination by a vet and a spinal alignment practitioner are key to making the right decisions.

3. Managing Skin Irritation and Inflammation from Licking

While you are resolving the underlying causes, it is important to prevent your dog from licking the affected area in the meantime.

If your dog keeps traumatizing 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 infection.

In such cases use a herbal SkinSpray formula to reduce redness and swelling, and follow the hot spot protocol if necessary.

For any dogs suffering from groin and abdominal licking consider adjusting their diet and incorporating the Fab4 supplements as recommended in our free natural diet video course and Recipe Maker. Improving your dog’s general health will resolve many stubborn health problems.

Understanding the root cause of your dog's groin licking is essential to provide them with the best care and relief. By identifying the issue, seeking professional help when necessary, and using supplements and remedies, you can effectively address your dog's condition.

Dr. Peter Dobias SkinSpray- All natural herbal healing spray

4. Summary of holistic recommendations for groin licking in dogs:

  1. For muscle sprains or injuries: Give Arnica 30C or 200C, and a sustainable Omega-3 supplement free from heavy metals.
  2. For lumbar or sacral spinal injuries: Consult a professional in spinal adjustments, physical therapy, or acupuncture.
  3. For urinary bladder issues: Get your dog's urine and blood work tested.
  4. For skin sensations, itching, and allergies: Refer to our article on allergies in dogs.
  5. For hernias and genital concerns: Check for hernia bulges and consult your veterinarian.
  6. To manage skin irritation and inflammation: Use a T-shirt or inflatable collar and apply herbal SkinSpray.
  7. Adjust your dog's diet and use the Fab4 supplements as recommended in the free natural diet video course and the Recipe Maker.
Dr. Peter Dobias Recipe Maker

      About the author

      Dr. Peter Dobias, DVM is an Integrative veterinarian, nutritionist and creator of natural supplements for dogs and people. Helping you and your dog prevent disease, treat nutritional deficiencies, and enjoy happier, healthier, and longer lives together.

      Most Popular

      • Pax the dog looking out airplane window
        In my article, I share the personal story of how I'm able to fly with my dog, Pax, thanks to overcoming challenges with sleepwalking and night terrors. This unique experience not only allowed me to travel with my service dog but also serves as a reminder that even difficult situations can have positive outcomes.
      • Dog smelling a white pony that is laying on the ground-communication hacks for a happier life
        Successful communication is essential for building healthier and more fulfilling relationships and happier lives. In this article, I'll share with you 8 communication hacks to help you avoid unnecessary drama, prioritize active listening and address conflicts effectively.
      • Dalmatian eating mixed fruit-safe fruits for dogs
        Can dogs eat bananas, apples, strawberries and other fruit? What about grapes? Find out what fruits are safe, toxic, and healthy for dogs. Learn about the potential health benefits and risks of feeding fruit to your canine companion, and get tips on the ideal time to feed it.
      • Illustration of the anatomy of a heart-how to protect Dog heart health
        As dog lovers, we all want our beloved pups to live long and healthy lives. Protecting your dog's heart from potential health issues is important, and in this blog Dr. Dobias shares some key points that you might not yet be aware of, read on to find out what you can do to keep your dog's heart safe. 

      Dog Health

      • Husky lying on blanket with heart toy- Dog heart health solutions
        Dogs have our hearts and that is why we need to protect their heart. Dog’s as they age often face muscle problems and spinal misalignment and you might be surprised to know how that can hurt their heart. Learn how to protect your dog’s spine and by extension their heart.
      • Dogs Opie and Pax laying on an outdoor deck-Perfect No. 2
        Dogs and humans have evolved side-by-side but they are still quite different when it comes to their digestive tracts and dietary habits. We have studied their original environments such as the soils of the African savanna and consulted with top experts in the field of probiotics and microbiology to come up with a combination that reflects healthy bacterial flora of canines.
      • Man carrying a box being pointed at-Feedback and criticism
        Criticism can hurt a brand, but constructive feedback can help it grow. In this blog Dr. Dobias talks about the differences between these approaches, and how to handle the power of influence and opinion with care. 
      • Broccoli with minerals and vitamins-The nutrient depletion epidemic
        Are you worried that your and your dog's diet is missing something? Maybe you're worried about toxin levels in food, the environment, or flea and tick products. Let's face it; we can't remove ourselves entirely from our toxin-filled world, but we can do things to reduce our exposure to harmful substances. 

      Human health

      • Dr. Dobias holding his dog Pax- finding peace amongst the chaos
        How do you navigate the seas of life? How do you deal with disappointment? Whatever life throws at us, we can always rely on our dogs to bring joy into our days. In this blog I share my thoughts on the support our dogs provide during the difficult moments in life. 
      • Person with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease holding the stomach
        Learn more about the alarming prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) affecting 1 in 4 Americans. Discover its main risk factors, diagnosis methods, and treatment options to better manage or prevent this silent yet severe condition. 
      • DHA-A new perspective on brain health, memory loss, Alzheimer's Disease, and dementia in people and dogs
        The Science of DHA and the Brain: Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily DHA, are the unsung heroes of brain health. They play crucial roles in brain physiology and biological activities, with exciting links between Omega-3 levels and cognitive function. Higher DHA levels have been shown to preserve the integrity of the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB), your brain's security system
      • Dr. Peter Dobias and his dog Pax-why we struggle where our dogs excel
        It appears that most of the world is ready for change, but whenever I think about the solutions to any of the problems that plague our world, I can’t prevent myself from thinking that we humans are acting like little toddlers who have broken a toy and do not know how to fix it. Despite my generally optimistic attitude, I have had a hard time staying positive at times because I know how complex this all is. Read here for some tools that make me feel good about the world, which I would like to share with you.

      News, stories and good life

      • Dr. Peter Dobias with his dog Pax on his lap- dogs can save you from negative news
        Do you have trouble staying positive during difficult times? These days we are surrounded by a lot of negative messaging, and it's easy to let that get you down. Here are some of my tips for remaining positive, and don't forget to share your tips with me!
      • Man with great immunity system standing on top of a mountain- how to increase dog immune system
        Most of us have been exposed to panic-inducing information about the virus spread, however, I have noticed the general absence of one piece of information, how to make your immune system stronger and body more resilient. (It will definitely not happen by stockpiling toilet paper!) I have always loved immunology and the current situation has prompted me to put together two simple lists on how to increase your dog’s and your own immunity.
      • Man with dog wearing a collar and leash-dangers of balloon effect
        Does your dog have ear problems, nasal or oral tumors, reverse sneezing or an  itchy head or hair loss on their head? Learn how you can address some of these problems and save thousands in vet care costs.
      • Terrier dog eating raw food-Best diet for dogs-raw diet
        Now there is no need to guess if there is something missing in your dogs diet.  The HairQ Test is a highly accurate test for mineral deficiencies, toxins and heavy metals in dogs to finely tune your dog’s diet and supplement schedule.

      Cart

      Close

      Your cart is currently empty.

      Start Shopping
      Close