What can I do to stop my 10 year old dog from constantly licking the furniture?
The first thing I would try is a spray called “Bitter Apple” that can be found in most pet stores. As you can imagine from the name, it has a very bitter, unpleasant taste and should discourage your dog from licking, biting, or chewing places you don’t want him/her to. I have used Bitter Apple on several surfaces, including oak tables and dark upholstered furniture. However as with any spray I would recommend a “test spray” first somewhere where you wouldn’t notice if there was any discoloration to make sure you don’t ruin your furniture. If Bitter Apple doesn’t work, I’d try distracting him from the behavior. Give him a toy or a chew bone that takes his attention away from the furniture. A peanut butter/treat-filled Kong toy should distract him for a while. Always make a point of correcting him every time he goes after the furniture as well – it’s important to be consistent. Good luck!
