Have you ever wondered the question on why does my dog lick me? If you’ve ever been around a dog, you’ve probably received a few licks. Traditionally, licks are associated with kissing. However, if your dog is continually slobbering on you, you may question why he licks me so much. Is there something wrong?
Also, there is a completely false rumour that dogs do not love people and only utilise us for food. However, the notion that a dog’s licks indicate devotion is also a misconception. Your dog may have additional reasons for treating you like a personal ice cream cone. Some are as sweet as your favourite frozen treat, while others may have a saltier flavour in your dog’s tongue. Here are some of the reasons your dog licks you, as well as why you should be concerned and how to stop the behaviour if you desire.
Why does my dog lick me so often?
Dogs kiss their favourite humans for a variety of reasons, including instinct, affection, and to indicate bodily or mental anguish. Understanding why a dog licks you so much might help you evaluate which one applies to your pet and, if required, seek assistance.
Instincts
Dogs licked for a variety of reasons before evolving into the tamed companion animals we know and love today. Mother dogs lick to groom, comfort, and even persuade their puppies to use the restroom. Baby wolves, foxes, and coyotes will also lick their mother when she returns from hunting in order to persuade her to puke up her meal for them to eat (gross? Yes. Natural and life-sustaining? Also, yes.
While your dog is domesticated and may have been spayed or neutered, they may still have an innate need to lick you in order to clean you off, soothe you, or possibly induce you to lose your lunch for their benefit (no need to oblige).
Affection
The rumours may be accurate; some dogs lick for the same reason you might kiss a loved one (four-legged or two-legged): to express love. Dogs used to lick for food and grooming, but the behaviour has evolved, as has our connection with them.
Some dogs may kiss you to express their delight that you’ve returned from your 30-minute-going-on-five-year trip to the grocery store. Others may cuddle with you and lick you a couple times as you watch Netflix to bond. Soak up those puppy kisses, regardless of your dog’s age.
Comfort
Are you down after a difficult day at work? Don’t be startled if your dog gives you licks. A mood ring may not be as accurate as your pet in predicting your emotional condition. If your dog knows anything is wrong, they may begin licking you to show empathy. This instinct may be inherited, as mother dogs kiss their puppies to comfort them in their early weeks.
You are delicious.
Aside from the instinctive need to make you regurgitate your food, dogs may lick their humans because they taste wonderful. For example, some dogs enjoy licking people who have recently exercised. The salty flavour of sweat could be one of their favourites.
While dogs have a famous sense of smell (particularly some varieties such as beagles), they have fewer taste buds than humans do. We have five times as many taste buds as dogs. In other words, our sense of taste is enhanced. That is not to say that dogs cannot taste or enjoy your post-workout sweat.
Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement. If you consistently praise or snuggle them when they lick you, you are encouraging them to continue. Your dog may drool if they want your attention and comfort, such as a belly rub (or treat).
Excessive licking, on the other hand, may be your dog’s way of indicating that they require additional attention. Your dog may be ill, and excessive licking is a sign of worry. Is your dog showing other symptoms of illness, such as lethargy or a dry nose? A visit to the veterinarian may be in order. Did they go had a substantial life change, such as having a baby or moving? They may require some TLC and time to adjust.
When and how to deal with dog licking
Dog licking is usually instinctual, habitual, or a display of affection. However, if you feel your dog is unwell or nervous, contact a veterinarian. They can assist you identify solutions and remedies. Furthermore, you may not enjoy continual tongue showers. In those circumstances, some approaches to control the behaviour are:
- When the dog comes in for a lick, redirect their focus to a toy.
- Purchase lick pads
- Treating the dog for focusing or licking something else, or refraining from licking you.
- To enrich and comfort your dog, provide toys, exercise, and personal touch as needed throughout the day. A trainer can assist with certain ways.
Final thoughts
Dogs kiss people for many reasons. While kissing is generally connected with licking—for reasons of affection—dogs may instinctively give you a tongue wash. Dogs have always licked their puppies for comfort and grooming, while little dogs lick older dogs who return after a hunt to get them to vomit so they can eat.
Dogs may lick when they are feeling sick or agitated. Licking is a natural behaviour that should not be a cause for concern. However, a veterinarian or trainer can assist you in determining why your dog is licking and how to stop the behaviour.