What is Acral Lick Dermatitis?
Acral lick dermatitis is a skin condition that is the direct result of constant licking. Small areas of hair loss first appear, but with continued licking a thickened, raised sore develops. This sore is often raw, inflamed and ulcerated.
This condition is not a physical or medical problem. It usually occurs in dogs who are left alone for long periods of time. Boredom is usually the initial reason for the licking. Some breeds, such as Dobermans, Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers, Irish Setters and German Shepherds seem most likely to develop this condition. Also the condition usually Stress is another possible reason for this abnormal licking. Any major changes In your dog's day to day life, such as the absence of a family member or companion animal, a new baby or even the presence of a nearby female dog in 'Heat. It is important for you to realize that your dog's problem is Psychological, not physical, and you will need to try to determine what it is that is causing your dog anxiety.
Lick Dermatitis is extremely difficult to treat unless the underlying psychological cause is found. Various medical treatments can be used in an attempt to control the dog's licking, such as lotions, creams, pills, such as tranquilizers, behavior modification drugs or barbiturates, injections or even a bandage over the area of regular licking, Laser surgery is also an option. Treatment of this type depends on the size, location and severity of the sores.
You will need to watch your pet closely and report to your veterinarian if the licking continues, your dog's sores get bigger, the sore becomes red, hot or swollen or begins to ooze fluids, or if your dog removes any protective bandages or wraps.
The best way for you to treat this lick dermatitis is to try to spend more time with your pet. Whenever possible exercise your pet regularly. Spending time like this with your dog will keep your dog's mind off licking and give the sores a chance to heal.

Are there any "new" treatment options available?
The laser has made a large difference in treatment of lick granuloma. The laser allows for tissue to be removed without a lot of pain for the patient. State of the art treatment may involve application of an extracellular scaffold of a tissue engineered product to the area. After rechecking every 4 days for 2-4 times, we can get very good remodeling of the area.

Feel free to discuss treatment and any possible solutions with your veterinarian.