Why Do Dogs Suck on Blankets? Exploring the Instincts Behind the Behavior

Dog owners are often confused when their pets start sucking on blankets or fabrics – a behavior that comes from a mix of instinct and potential anxiety. Puppies suck on blankets because they've inherited the instinct from nursing on their mother for comfort and sustenance. In their adult years, dogs may suck on blankets to reduce stress, trigger the release of endorphins, keep themselves busy, or because they were weaned too early – all of which satisfy their natural urge to suck and chew.

To help you better understand why your dog does this strange thing, we'll take a deep dive into the comprehensive research of dog behaviorists and veterinarians. This research will help you understand the psychological and developmental reasons that lead some dogs to suck on fabrics. With this evidence-based look at the behavior, you'll be able to understand it better and make sure that your dog is happy and healthy.

Blanket Sucking as a Symptom of Anxiety or Stress

Although blanket sucking is generally a normal, instinctive behavior, compulsive or excessive sucking can be a sign of anxiety or stress. As Good Human Dog Training explains, dogs with separation anxiety may engage in destructive behaviors like blanket sucking to help them cope with the stress of being alone. Changes in a dog's schedule, a lack of mental stimulation, and separation from their owner can also lead to object sucking.

Instead of just focusing on the blanket sucking, it's important to figure out what's causing the dog to feel anxious and then address those issues. This can include making sure the dog is getting enough mental stimulation through toys and activities, keeping a consistent schedule, and using positive reinforcement to help the dog get used to being alone. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to work with a dog trainer who specializes in separation anxiety, as suggested by Good Human Dog Training.

Knowing that blanket sucking can be a sign of anxiety can help dog owners take steps to improve their pet's mental health. After all, the best way to stop the behavior is to address the underlying causes of the stress and help the dog feel more secure.

Compulsive Blanket Sucking and Health Problems

In some instances, blanket sucking can become a compulsive behavior, especially in certain breeds such as Doberman Pinschers. This behavior, which is called "flank sucking", involves a dog grasping a fold of its own flank skin in its mouth and sucking on it. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, flank sucking is a type of canine compulsive disorder (CCD) that is most often seen in Doberman Pinschers.

Compulsive blanket sucking and flank sucking can result in a number of health problems, including skin problems, hair loss, and infections. Research published on PubMed has even suggested that these behaviors could be genetic and breed-specific. However, other causes can include early weaning, lack of mental stimulation, and anxiety.

Veterinary treatment is often required for more serious cases of compulsive blanket or flank sucking. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, this can include the use of medication to control the compulsive behavior and behavior modification. Limiting access to the area being sucked on and providing other ways to meet the dog's needs can also be helpful in controlling the condition.

Positive Reinforcement Techniques to Stop Blanket Sucking

Positive reinforcement can also be used to help stop dogs from sucking on blankets too much. According to Wild Earth, this starts with removing the stressors and making sure that dogs have other things to do, like chew toys or work-to-eat puzzles. In addition, commands like 'leave it' or 'drop it' can be used to break the behavior and redirect the dog's focus, says PetHelpful.

It can also be helpful to use positive reinforcement to reward the dog when they do something else, which can help them learn to associate the new behavior with a positive outcome, explains Kiki Yablon Dog Training. Meanwhile, Canna-Pet emphasizes that positive reinforcement requires time, patience, and a commitment to not using punishment. However, when it's done correctly, positive reinforcement can be an effective way to help dogs learn new behaviors.

By making sure that dogs have other options and redirecting them when they start to suck on blankets, dog owners can use positive reinforcement to help manage and stop their pets' blanket sucking.

Dealing With Excessive Licking and Skin Problems

In some cases, excessive licking or sucking on their own fur or skin can be a symptom of an underlying health problem in dogs. Allergies, skin irritations, infections, or pain can cause compulsive licking, according to Pawzy. Some breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers, are especially prone to acral lick dermatitis, a compulsive disorder that causes dogs to lick certain areas over and over again, says VCA Animal Hospitals.

It's important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment for any medical issues to stop the behavior and prevent further skin problems. For example, as explained in Whole Dog Journal, demodicosis, ectoparasites, dermatophytosis, endocrine disorders, and atopic dermatitis can all cause bacterial folliculitis, a skin infection that can lead to excessive licking. If the licking continues, it's a good idea to see a vet, as you may need medication or other treatments to address the underlying issues.

Conclusion: Understanding and Addressing Blanket Sucking in Dogs

Blanket sucking is a common behavior in dogs, often rooted in natural instincts and developmental needs. Puppies are born with an innate desire to suckle, a behavior they would normally exhibit on their mother's teats for nourishment and comfort. As adult dogs, some continue this sucking habit on soft objects like blankets as a self-soothing mechanism.

This behavior may stem from being weaned too early or not getting enough nursing as puppies. According to the American Kennel Club, "Dogs that don't suck on their flanks, but instead on blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, and other soft objects are doing it not to be destructive, but as a relaxation mechanism." The sucking releases endorphins, providing a sense of relaxation and comfort for the dog.

While normal, occasional blanket sucking is generally harmless, excessive or compulsive sucking can sometimes indicate underlying anxiety or stress. Separation anxiety, changes in routine, or lack of mental stimulation can trigger this self-soothing behavior. Addressing the root causes of the dog's anxiety through positive reinforcement training and environmental management is crucial to curb problematic sucking habits.

In rare cases, blanket sucking can become a compulsive disorder, particularly in certain breeds like Doberman Pinschers. This condition, known as "flank sucking," can lead to skin irritation, hair loss, and infections. Research has found a genetic marker associated with this behavior in Dobermans, and veterinary intervention may be necessary for severe cases.

Regardless of the underlying causes, with patience and the right strategies, owners can help their dogs overcome problematic blanket sucking habits. Providing appropriate outlets, using positive reinforcement, and addressing any underlying anxiety or medical issues can all be effective approaches. Seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or veterinarian is recommended for persistent or severe cases to ensure the dog's well-being.