What is Dog Cobbing?
Have you ever been sitting happily next to your furry friend, when suddenly they lean over and bite you! This is not a hard bite, but rather a soft nibble with the edge of their teeth - this is cobbing behavior.
While it may seem strange to us, this ‘cobbing’, is a form of communication, and is used dog-to-dog and dog-to-human. It can also have a number of other functions. While normally harmless, cobbing can occasionally be problematic, and it's important to be able to tell the difference.
So, What is Cobbing?
Dog cobbing is when a dog pulls back their lips and gently uses their front teeth to give you, another dog, or themselves, a small nibble. This is different from aggressive biting or nipping, and slightly different from ‘mouthing’, which is when a dog bites you without biting down hard - which is used to explore something.
Newborn puppies use this type of nibbling behavior to stimulate their mothers into producing milk. While some dogs may stop doing this, many other dogs continue this behavior well into their adult lives. So why do adult dogs continue to do this?
What Does Cobbing Behavior Mean for Adult Dogs?
Your dog’s nibbling habits can indicate a variety of causes. Most of these are harmless, but some can indicate an issue. So dog owners need to pay attention to a sudden change in the frequency or intensity of the nibbling.
Displaying Affection
Since dogs likely remember this nibbling behavior as something warm and soothing, it seems like they keep doing it as a sign of infection.
They might reach over and nibble you as a friendly way to show you they feel comfortable in your presence, and because they trust you. They may also nibble other dogs or animals in the house that they get along with or are trying to soothe.
While the other dog may occasionally get annoyed or snap, letting your dogs nibble each other a little is a sign of a good relationship between them.
To Get Attention
If your dog nibbles on you suddenly, it may be because they want your attention. This can either be because they want affection in the form of petting, or they’re hoping to play with you. They may also nibble on each other as an invitation to start playing with each other.
Out of Boredom
Cobbing behavior, especially when the dog is nibbling themselves, can be a sign that they are bored. This can be a way for them to get some mental stimulation if they feel frustrated or bored.
If you see your dog nibble on themselves when they’re being ignored or are just lying around…then they’re probably feeling frustrated, and need some mental stimulation. It may be time to take them for a walk or get some toys or treats.
Teething
While not a usual reason for cobbing behavior, a younger dog may be nibbling as a way to relieve discomfort from teething. An older dog may also nibble or chew if they are suffering from gum or teeth problems.
Grooming and Cleaning
Sometimes dogs nibble or tug at their fur to remove any dirt or other debris. They may be shedding and trying to remove their undercoat on their own. This is especially common on the lower body, where they can’t reach to scratch with their paws.
Excessive scratching, biting, and licking could indicate that they have a parasite, such as fleas, or another type of skin condition. If the area is red and inflamed, then it might mean they have a mite or flea infestation[1].
If you see your dog nibble and lick their paws continuously then it could also indicate a health issue such as a splinter, a wound, a rash, or an allergy, and they should be checked thoroughly.
Stress, Anxiety, or Other Obsessive Behavior
Since nibbling behavior is a positive and soothing thing, some dogs use it as a means to self-soothe if they’re feeling anxious or uncomfortable. If this is a gentle nibble, and the dog seems alright, then it's probably fine.
However, excessive cobbing can cause hair loss and skin damage. For some dogs, this may just be during a period of stress, such as being anxious at night, but for others, it can become a habit. This is especially common in anxious dogs or dogs that have suffered trauma.
What to Look Out For
As mentioned, most cobbing behavior is innocent and nothing to worry over. It is a normal part of a dog’s mental health and social interaction. However, keep an eye on your dog’s behavior, especially -
Increased Nibbling or More Intense Nibbling - If your dog starts cobbing more than normal, or if they seem to be very intense about it, then this could indicate that a problem is forming. More intense biting can also lead to health issues.
Increased Aggression - If your dog becomes aggressive to you or other dogs when their cobbing is interrupted, it could indicate that they might be in pain or very stressed out. Cobbing should not be an aggressive behavior.
Other Symptoms - If you see symptoms such as crying, whining, limping, or scratching alongside an increase in cobbing then your dog is probably in pain.
What to Do About Cobbing?
Ninety percent of the time, cobbing behavior can just be ignored. While it might be a bit annoying at times, it is a normal and healthy way for your dog to interact and express themselves. If you do believe you have a right to be concerned, there are a few things to try…
See a Vet
Abnormal cobbing behavior can be a sign of pain. This can be something unrelated, such as arthritis, which is stressing your dog, or a skin or dental problem. A vet checkup should remove any doubt whether it's a physical problem or an emotional one.
Treat Their Boredom
Another common reason for excessive cobbing is boredom. If you think that your dog cobs a lot, try increasing the length and frequency of their exercise.
New toys, especially chew toys, can provide more mental stimulation than nibbling. It's also a good way to distract them from their cobbing and keep their mouths focused away from themselves or other pets.
Train Against Aggression
Sometimes, cobbing behavior might turn into nibbling that could hurt you. If your dog accidentally bites you too hard, yelp loudly to show your discomfort and ignore them for a minute or so. If the play-biting continues, then get up and leave the room.[2]
Reward good behavior by giving them a treat. If one dog frequently becomes upset at the cobbing, consider separating them for a short while.
Treat Their Anxiety
If you believe your dog is cobbing from stress or anxiety, you will have to address the underlying issue.
Providing more exercise or toys can help, but you may need to call a professional dog trainer or see a vet about compulsive tendencies.
You can also make your dog more comfortable by swaddling them. This can be done using a blanket, or by providing them with a comfortable jacket. This has the added benefit of protecting their skin from nibbling.[3]
For a range of comfortable Doggy Sweaters, check out Sparkpaws’ Knit Dog Sweater Collection for a range of options.
Conclusion
Cobbing is a natural behavior where dogs gently nibble themselves or others. This is normally done to get attention, to self-soothe, or as a display of affection. It can also happen when a dog is bored and frustrated or as part of their grooming. Sometimes, it can also be a sign of distress or pain.
Normally you don’t need to worry about cobbing at all, but pay attention if your dog does it too much or too intensely. This can be a sign of parasites, skin issues, dental problems, or too much stress.
If you believe you should be worried, try taking your dog to a vet, increase their exercise, and help them ease their stress.
In most cases, cobbing can be ignored. Take it for what it probably is, a gentle kiss from your canine friend.
Happy Walking!
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