Why Is My Female Dog Licking Her Vulva?

If your dog is licking her vulva it can be a sign of something as simple as she is too hot. If this is the case, try giving her a cool bath or keeping her out of the sun and in a room that is cooler. Quite commonly though, female dogs licking their vulva can be an early sign on vaginitis. This is an inflammation of the vulva that is caused by infectious organisms or bacteria, an infection that is quite common in female dogs who have been spayed. This is due to the fact that there is now a lack of the hormone estrogen, one that usually aids the health of the vulva and vagina. Vaginitis is similar to dogs as it is to humans. There are three types of the infection; bacterial vaginosis, vaginal candidiasis and trichomoniasis.

If your dog is constantly licking her vulva and it has been lasting for a while then monitor your dog for excess licking, yellow or greenish discharge and any severe redness of the inner lining, mucus membranes, of the vulva. Vaginitis is an infection that can sometimes resolve itself on its own but if there are any signs that your dogs condition is worsening then you should consult a veterinarian. A vet will be able to perform a full physical exam on your dog and then prescribe the appropriate antibiotics should he feel they are necessary. If you cannot get your dog to a veterinarian straight away, in the meantime it may be worth buying an Elizabeth collar from your local pet store. This collar will help prevent your dog from licking herself more and hopefully stop further irritation to the area. If your dog is diagnosed with vaginitis then follow the orders given by your vet to guarantee the quickest and most effective treatment.

This can be a sign of heat, may indicate a vaginitis, urinary tract infection, vulvar foreign body, allergies, or draining pyometra (uterine infection). Have your dog examined by a veterinarian to determine the cause and start appropriate treatment.