When your pooch licks you, there can be a variety of reasons, and these behaviors range from showing affection to relieving stress, and maybe even expressing their pain. A dog's licking is a completely normal and natural behavior. For them, it's a way to clean and connect, not only with each other, but also with your interactions. And, that's how they collect information. This behavior dates back to when they were puppies, when their mothers would lick puppies to keep them clean and comfort them.
So, why do dogs lick you? Here are some of the main reasons why your dog starts licking you:
- Say hello: While we want dogs to be able to talk, they can't. So when you wake up in the morning or come home from work, the dog licking is probably saying hello to you. This may be their way of expressing their joy to see you again. At the same time, in this way, they also give an idea of our day through the taste and smell on our skin.
- Seek attention: If your dog licks you, you may start to pay more attention to them, whether by petting them, talking to them, or starting to play with them. This will encourage them to lick more, as they will associate this behavior with positive interactions.
- We smell and taste good: dogs have a much stronger sense than ours, and they can smell and taste everything, including the sweat we sweat when we exercise, the smell of food on our hands after eating, or the smell on our face after applying cream. Licking can enhance your dog's already amazing sense of smell, so you may find that your pooch will follow up after sniffing you.
- They feel stressed or anxious: Licking is also a soothing act for our dogs and helps them feel more relaxed. If they are feeling stressed or anxious, licking you, each other, or themselves may help ease that concern.
So, when should you be concerned about your dog's licking behavior?
If your dog suddenly starts licking you or himself more often than usual, then you should make an appointment to see a veterinarian. Excessive licking behavior may indicate that they are feeling anxious, or suggest that they are experiencing some kind of discomfort.
Dogs will lick to show that they are not a threat, so if your dog licks someone excessively, it could mean that they are not feeling well, and may be trying to comfort themselves, get more information, or ask the other person to leave.
Make sure your dog can't lick any part of your prescription ointment as these ingredients can be toxic when ingested.
If your dog is constantly licking specific areas of their body, they may experience discomfort, itching, or even pain. Dogs will lick painful areas, but they may also use licking to distract from discomfort in other parts of their body. Sometimes, your dog can irritate and damage their skin by licking excessively, so it's a cause for concern and a check if you're worried.