Non stop licking,mean

[stacey4561]

My dog is fine around me my husband and our children,but it doesnt matter who comes to our house or where we take her she gets very mean.She has bitten a child already in the 7 months we have had her.She gets very aggressive towards others,almost like she want to eat them..lol..How can I make her stop?? I think she is afraid others are trying to hurt or or something.I do know she is very protective of us,but because of this our children cannot have their friends over anymore and its hard for us to invite friends into our own home.Is there a solution to this problem???

What will cause her to lick non stop.She licks constantly and it drives me crazy.She has to lick the face,legs,hands,any body part that she is near:~) Is that normal??

[Robert Judd, D.V.M., DABVP]

This was posted on the equine forum.  However, an aggressive dog is a serious problem and especially one that has bit a child.  I am concerned the licking may also be behavioral.  I would recommend a complete medical workup by your vet for the licking to rule out any skin conditions.  If all the skin tests are negative, your vet may have suggestions for the behavior or may refer you to a board certified behaviorist.  Until that occurs, you need to isolate your dog to prevent any other human injury.  These cases are not easy but are serious and need immediate veterinary attention.

[Jim Humphries, B.S., D.V.M.]

please post in the behavior or general health section for more visibility.  

As Dr. Judd said, such aggression is a very serious problem not only for the injury but for the potential legal issues you may face!  Several cases are not legal precedent for convictions and jail time for the owner of a known aggressive dog that causes bodily harm.  A behaviorist that works with canine aggression is needed.  

The licking can be a sign of allergy or a nervous habit / anxiety displacement.  Again, an exam and diagnosis is needed.