Similar to compulsive disorders, self-mutilation can result from environmental or hereditary problems. What starts as your pet simply licking his leg can turn into skin or tissue problem. It's important that you and your veterinarian identify your pet's unsafe behavior. Once your vet confirms that self-mutilation is the problem, you need to work with your pet to eliminate the behavior. There are simple things you can do to help your pet cope.

For dogs, self-mutilation normally occurs in the form of excessive licking, chewing, or biting. There are a variety of reasons why the behavior may start, including physical, psychological, and genetic reasons. No matter the reason, it is important that you start treatment as soon as possible. Even after the causes of the mutilation have been removed, your pet may continue with the behavior. At this point, your pet has carried over the self-mutilation behavior until it has become a habit or an obsessive compulsive behavior. Obsessive compulsive behaviors can be eradicated, but it's much easier for you and your pooch to stop the self-mutilation before it gets to this point.

You may think that the excessive chewing or licking is no big deal, since it looks similar to grooming. But, the licking and chewing can lead to skin problems. A dog can actually chew down into the tissue, causing sores and trips to the veterinarian. If you think your pet may be doing more than just grooming, check the places he licks. Often, there will be little or no hair, discolored hair, or sores and rashes. Make note of the frequency he licks, what triggers it, and how long the licking session lasts. Take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible. A vet visit is necessary, since there are times when a pet may lick a spot because of underlying joint or muscle problems. Your veterinarian can rule out any health concerns and help you stop the behavior.

When you return home, it's important that you don't encourage the behavior. You may be wondering, "Why or how would I encourage such a behavior?" Well, just showing your dog attention when he starts to lick is telling him that it's okay; he'll quickly realize that licking gets him the attention he wants. So, instead of running to him, interrupt the behavior with a loud clap or other startling noise. Then, replace the behavior with something else. For instance, clap your hands and play a quick game of fetch. Reward him with treats for the game of fetch.

Obedience training is always a great way to help stop a behavior. Obedience training builds your pet's confidence and gives him something to do. It also helps with self-mutilation interruption. For instance, interrupt his behavior with a clap and get him to do a trick. He'll love the attention and the rewards! Training is both necessary and fun. You should also find things to keep your pet occupied. If he's playing with an intriguing toy or searching for a hidden treat, then he's less likely to chew and lick.

You should also make sure that the self-mutilation is not being caused by skin irritation. Take time to check on your pet's body. Often, a small insect bite can cause your pet to start licking. If the bite doesn't have a chance to heal, then the licking can become constant. Allergies and fleas also trigger licking, so keep your pet flea free and take him to your vet for routine checkups. If skin irritation has already occurred, then do your best to treat it. You may have to use bandages or anti-itch ointments until the skin heals. But, these solutions should only be used short term. It's up to you to get to the root of the problem and stop it!

A dog that constantly licks is more than just grooming himself; he is taking part in a form of self-mutilation. Unless you want to make constant trips to the veterinarian to deal with skin problems, it's important that you work on ways to get rid of the problem. There are many things you can do at home to help your pooch, including interrupting the behavior and replacing the behavior. A temporary solution can be used temporarily, but it should not replace a permanent one.