How To Heal Lick Granuloma In Dogs

Alex Seilis

August 06, 2024

Lick granuloma sounds like a fancy medical term ... but it's actually a common issue that many dog owners eventually face.

The condition manifests as a spot on your dog's leg that he licks incessantly, often leading to a red, inflamed area that just won't heal.

The cycle of itching and licking creates a stubborn wound that can cause significant discomfort for your dog and stress for you.

Sound familiar?

Well here's what most people don't know: the constant licking can result in more than just a superficial wound. In fact, it often indicates deeper issues that need addressing.

That's why we put this guide together on all things lick granuloma ... from psychological triggers to physical ailments. Let’s start by looking at what a lick granuloma is, how it develops, and the steps you can take to heal it and prevent it from recurring.

Lick Granuloma Causes

Lick granuloma (also known as acral lick granuloma or acral lick dermatitis) can have multiple underlying causes. While it’s easy to assume that your dog excessively licking is purely a behavioral issue, there are often deeper physical or psychological factors at play.

Common psychological triggers include boredom, stress, and separation anxiety. Dogs may lick a spot repeatedly to soothe themselves or to alleviate the discomfort caused by these emotional states.

However, physical conditions can also initiate or exacerbate this behavior. Underlying issues such as bacterial or fungal infection, skin infection, furunculosis (ruptured hair follicles), or ruptured apocrine glands (a type of sweat gland) can cause irritation and lead to excessive licking.

Infestations of skin mites can also trigger itching and subsequent licking. Other potential physical triggers include leg injuries, surgery, osteoarthritis, peripheral neuropathy, spinal pain, nerve impingement, and even food sensitivity.

Sometimes, a dog might start licking due to a minor injury or discomfort, like a sprain or arthritis, and then continue the behavior out of habit. The persistent licking releases endorphins, which provide a sense of relief and pleasure, reinforcing the behavior. It’s crucial to identify and address the root cause of your dog’s licking to effectively treat and prevent lick granuloma.

What Does Lick Granuloma Look Like?

Lick granuloma is typically found on a dog’s front legs, often between the elbow and toes, particularly around the wrist area. The condition starts as a small spot that your dog licks repeatedly, which soon becomes red and inflamed on the superficial skin layers. Over time, this area develops into a raised, thickened lesion or skin lump with a distinct appearance due to the chronic licking and irritation.

The constant licking removes the fur from the affected area, exposing the skin underneath. The exposed skin can become ulcerated and infected, leading to a noticeable lump or sore. In severe cases, the licking can affect deeper layers of skin and even the underlying tissue.

Middle-aged, large breed dogs are most commonly affected, but any dog can develop a lick granuloma. Recognizing the signs early and taking appropriate action can prevent the condition from worsening.

How To Diagnose Lick Granuloma

Diagnosing a lick granuloma involves a thorough examination to rule out underlying causes and confirm the condition. Your veterinarian will start with a physical examination of the affected area and ask about your dog’s behavior, diet, and any recent changes in both the dog and the dog's environment. This information helps determine whether the licking is due to behavioral or physical issues.

To identify the underlying cause, several tests and clinical signs may be necessary. Deep skin scrapings can check for mites, while allergy testing can rule out environmental or food-related allergies. A skin culture might be taken to detect bacterial or yeast infections.

In some cases, a skin biopsy may be required to rule out other serious conditions like cancer. By conducting these tests, your vet can develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

How To Heal Lick Granulomas On Dogs

Healing a lick granuloma involves a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the physical wound and the underlying causes. Here are five essential steps to guide you through the process:

Address Behavioral And Psychological Issues: First, to stop the compulsive licking, address any underlying behavioral issues. Increase your dog’s physical activity and mental stimulation through longer walks, interactive toys, and playtime. If psychological factors like anxiety are at play, consider natural anti-anxiety remedies such as CBD oil, melatonin, or soothing herbs like chamomile and valerian.
Stop The Itching: Next, start by alleviating your dog’s discomfort using natural remedies. Fresh aloe gel can be applied to the affected area to reduce inflammation and provide a cooling effect. Chamomile poultices, created by steeping chamomile tea bags and refrigerating them, can also be applied directly to the wound to soothe irritation.
Use Natural Antibiotics: Natural antibiotics like oil of oregano, manuka honey, and olive leaf can help manage infections without harming your dog’s gut microbiome. Dilute oil of oregano and apply it topically or add it to your dog's food. Manuka honey can be directly applied to the wound for its antibacterial properties, and olive leaf powder can be given orally based on your dog's size.
Look Into Alternative Therapies: Consider therapies such as cold laser therapy, acupuncture, or the Assisi loop, which uses pulsed electromagnetic frequency. These therapies can help reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, consulting a homeopathic veterinarian for personalized remedies can be beneficial.
Cover The Lick Granuloma: Covering the granuloma can help protect the wound and prevent further licking. Use a light, non-stick bandage, but be cautious not to wrap it too tightly. If your dog tends to remove bandages, an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) or cone can be used as a last resort.

How Long For Lick Granuloma To Heal?

The healing time for a lick granuloma can vary significantly depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying causes. G

Generally, it can take several months to see substantial improvement.

If a bacterial infection is present, it often requires a comprehensive approach to treatment, including topical therapy and perhaps even natural antibiotics.

Addressing behavioral issues via behavior modification is also crucial, as it helps break the cycle of licking and promotes healing. While it might take time and patience, following a thorough treatment plan can lead to gradual healing and relief for your dog.

Will A Lick Granuloma Go Away On Its Own?

Lick granulomas don't typically heal on their own. The incessant licking behavior perpetuates a cycle of irritation and inflammation, preventing the affected area from recovering. If left untreated, the granuloma can worsen, potentially leading to more severe infections and deeper skin damage.

Effective treatment requires addressing both the physical and psychological causes of the licking behavior. Without intervention, the condition is likely to persist and possibly exacerbate, causing ongoing discomfort and potential complications for your dog.

How To Prevent Acral Lick Granuloma

Preventing lick granuloma involves being proactive about your dog’s physical and emotional health.

Here are some strategies to help you prevent this condition from developing:

Monitor And Address Early Signs: At the first sign of obsessive licking, intervene promptly. Lick granulomas can develop quickly, so catching the behavior early can prevent it from becoming a chronic issue.
Ensure Regular Exercise And Mental Stimulation: A well-exercised and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to develop anxiety-based behaviors like excessive licking. Engage your dog in daily physical activities, such as long walks, play sessions, and interactive toys.
Maintain A Consistent Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Providing a stable and predictable daily schedule can help reduce stress and anxiety, minimizing the risk of obsessive behaviors.
Promote Social Interaction: Ensure your dog has regular social interactions with you, other family members, and other dogs. This helps prevent loneliness and boredom, which can contribute to excessive licking.
Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to your holistic veterinarian to monitor your dog’s overall health. Early detection of potential health issues can prevent them from escalating into conditions that might trigger obsessive licking.

By taking these steps, you can help prevent lick granulomas in your pup, which will help keep your dog healthy and happy!

FAQ

How do you treat a lick granuloma? Treating a lick granuloma involves breaking the itch-lick cycle and addressing any underlying causes. Use natural remedies like fresh aloe gel and chamomile poultices to soothe the area, and natural antibiotics like oil of oregano and manuka honey to manage infections and promote healing.

Do lick granulomas hurt dogs? Yes, acral lick granulomas can be painful for dogs due to the constant licking and resulting deep bacterial infection. The repetitive licking often leads to a skin lesion that can cause significant discomfort and self-trauma.

What is the difference between a lick granuloma and a hot spot? A lick granuloma is a type of skin lesion caused by repetitive licking, often resulting in a raised, inflamed area, while a hot spot is an acute, moist, and red area caused by skin infections or irritations. Both conditions can cause hair loss, but acral lick granulomas occur due to chronic self-trauma, whereas hot spots can develop rapidly from various triggers.

Should you bandage a lick granuloma? Bandaging a lick granuloma can help protect the area and keep it clean, but ensure the bandage is not too tight to avoid further irritation. For most dogs, an Elizabethan collar may also be necessary to prevent them from removing the bandage and constantly licking the wound.