Frequent lip licking can signal a dog is feeling nervous or unsure in a situation.
Nervousness
Lip licking may indicate a dog feels nauseous or has an upset stomach.
Nausea
Excessive lip licking can be a sign your dog is stressed or anxious.
Stress
Some dogs lick their lips in eager anticipation of a reward or mealtime.
Anticipation
Persistent lip licking may be a bid for attention or affection from owners.
Attention Seeking
Lip licking can communicate deference and avoid conflict.
Submission
Medical issues like mouth pain or allergies can also cause frequent lip licking.
Discomfort