Why Do Dogs Lick People? 9 Reasons Why Dogs Lick

For as long as we've been domesticating dogs, they have been licking us. While it's a behavior that most dog owners find endearing, it may lead a pet parent to ask why dogs lick people and how to address many aspects involved in that question.

Why do dogs lick people?

There are various reasons why dogs enjoy licking their owners. Some of the top reasons may be:

Reason 1: To Show Affection

Reason 2: To Greet Their Owners

Reason 3: To Taste and Smell

Reason 4: As a Form of Communication

Reason 5: For Attention-seeking Behavior

Reason 6: To Help with Stress and Anxiety

Reason 7: Out of Habit or Instinct

Reason 8: As a Sign of Submission

Reason 9: Medical Issues

Is it a sign of affection?

Most dogs show affection through licking. When you see your furry pooch wagging their tail while licking your face, it means that the dog is showing love and gratitude, and possibly feeling satisfied and happy.

Could it be a learned behavior?

Depending on how they were raised by their puppy mother, dogs may learn that licking is a way of communicating or showing submission. Similarly, dogs may also learn that humans respond positively to licking, which may have encouraged the behavior.

Do dogs lick for attention?

Yes, dogs also lick to solicit attention or food. If dogs feel they're not receiving the love and care they need, they will lick their owners to let them know they need attention, want to go outside or even are seeking food or water.

What can you do if your dog won't stop licking you?

It's important to address excessive licking behavior because it can lead to various issues, whether health-related or behavioral. Here are some ways to deal with excessive licking:

Train your dog to stop licking on command

Training your dog to stop licking on your command will depend on the individual dog and its personality. You can use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior when they stop licking, followed by a small treat, which will teach the dog to stop the behavior over time.

Redirect your dog's licking behavior to something else

If you want to redirect your dog's licking behavior to other outlets, you can try providing them chew toys or long-lasting treats instead. This can distract dogs and meet their need for mental stimulation as well.

Make sure your dog is getting enough attention and exercise

Some dogs lick due to a lack of attention, affection and exercise, so providing enough of those things can help lessen this behavior. If you increase your dog's exercise routine, it will help make them feel more relaxed and content.

Can a dog lick be harmful or unhealthy?

Excessive licking is cause for concern, and below are some reasons why:

Excessive licking can cause skin irritation or infection

Dogs can lick us excessively to the point where it can cause our skin to become irritated, which can lead to infection. When a dog's licking becomes excessive, they may be licking their owners because they are anxious, stressed or even bored, which can become harmful.

Dogs may lick your face and transmit bacteria or parasites

While licking is often a sign of affection, it can also transfer harmful bacteria or worms to our systems that can make us sick. It's best to protect against these by washing hands and face thoroughly after pets lick us.

Underlying medical conditions can cause excessive licking

In some cases, excessive licking can be due to an underlying medical condition, including allergies or joint pain. Therefore, it is essential to see your vet to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

What are some reasons why dogs lick people?

Different dogs lick for various reasons, which can be because of:

Dogs may lick people for salt on the skin

If you are sweating, there's a good chance that your dog may lick you. Sweat contains salt, and dogs love to taste salt. Some dogs may like to lick more than others, and it comes down to their individual preference.

Licking can be a sign of submission or respect

When dogs lick their owners, this could be an act of submission or respect to the pet parent; additionally, they may display this kind of behavior towards higher-ranking dogs, more dominant dogs or wild dogs that they see as a threat to their social position.

Dogs may lick to solicit attention or food

If your dog is hungry, it may lick you to solicit food as well. They can also use this method to demand attention if they feel like they aren't getting enough from their owners.

What can dog parents do to address excessive licking behavior?

It's essential to address excessive licking behavior to ensure good health, comfort and happiness for the dog as well as their owners. Some ways to help reduce excessive licking:

Rule out any medical or health issues with your vet

Consult with a veterinarian to rule out potential underlying health conditions and address any issue that may be contributing to your dog's licking behavior.

Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behavior

Practice positive reinforcement techniques when training your dog, and praise good behavior. By focusing on positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and kind words, you can motivate your dog to change their licking behavior faster and more effectively.

Provide alternative outlets for your dog's needs, such as toys or treats

Dogs require mental stimulation and interaction, and it's essential to give them enough toys and entertainment to meet those needs. If you give your dog enough outside time and attention, and provide outlets for their licking behavior, they may show less interest in licking you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Why Do Dogs Lick People

Q: Why do dogs lick people?

A: Dogs can lick people for a variety of reasons, including to show affection, get attention, calm down, and even taste the salty skin of their owners.

Q: Is it safe for a dog to lick your face?

A: Generally, it is safe for a dog to lick your face as long as you don't have any open wounds. However, it is important to keep in mind that dogs can carry bacteria in their mouths, so it is best to wash your face after a dog licks you.

Q: Can excessive licking be a problem?

A: Yes, excessive licking can signal an underlying medical problem or a behavioral issue. If your dog is licking excessively, it is a good idea to visit a veterinary to rule out any health problems.

Q: Why do dogs like to lick things?

A: Licking is an instinctive behavior for dogs, and it can be a way for them to explore and interact with their environment. Additionally, dogs may lick objects to mark their territory or to try to taste or regurgitate food.

Q: Why does my dog always want to lick my hands?

A: Dogs may lick their owners' hands as a way to show affection or to get attention. Some dogs may also lick their owners' hands because they associate it with treats or playtime.

Q: What does it mean if my dog licks my face?

A: If your dog licks your face, it can be a sign that they are showing affection or trying to communicate with you. However, it can also be a sign of submissive behavior or an attempt to assert dominance.

Q: Why do puppies lick their mother's mouth?

A: Puppies lick their mother's mouth as a way to stimulate regurgitation of food and to show affection and submission to their mother.

Q: Are there any benefits to a dog licking?

A: Yes, licking can release endorphins in dogs and provide them with a calming and soothing sensation. Additionally, dogs may use licking as a way to communicate with other dogs and people.

Q: Can I teach my dog to only lick me when asked?

A: Yes, you can use positive reinforcement training techniques such as teaching your dog a command like “kisses,” then only allowing them to lick you when you give the command. Consistency and patience in training are key.

Q: Is it bad if my dog licks me excessively?

A: Excessive licking can be a sign of anxiety or stress in dogs. However, many dogs just love to lick and may not have any underlying issues. If you are concerned about your dog's licking habits, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian.

Q: Can I train my dog to stop licking me?

A: Yes, you can train your dog not to lick you if it bothers you. One effective method is to divert their attention with a toy or treat when they go to lick you. Consistently redirecting their behavior will train them to stop licking you.

Q: Why does my dog always lick my face?

A: Dogs love to show affection by licking their owners' faces. They also enjoy the taste and smell of their owners' skin, and licking your face may be their way of saying that they love you.

Q: Should I let my dog lick my hands?

A: It's generally safe to allow your dog to lick your hands, but be aware that dogs carry bacteria in their saliva that can be harmful to humans. It's always a good idea to wash your hands after your dog licks them.

Q: What does it mean if my dog wants to lick me?

A: If your dog wants to lick you, it's usually a sign that they love and want to be close to you. Licking is a good way for dogs to get attention and show their affection.

Q: Are there any other reasons why my dog might be licking me?

A: Dogs will often lick their owners to show their affection, but repeated licking can also be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or illness. If you notice that your dog is licking excessively or in a specific area, it may be a sign that something is bothering them and you should consult with your vet.

Q: Is it true that licking areas can help a wound heal?

A: While dogs' saliva does have some antibacterial properties, it's not a good idea to let your dog lick an open wound. This is because their saliva also contains bacteria that can lead to infection.

Q: Why do many dogs lick people?

A: Licking is a natural behavior in dogs. It's often a sign of affection and can also be a way for dogs to communicate and bond with their owners. Many dogs also enjoy the taste and smell of their owners' skin.

Q: Should I be aware that dogs might lick me?

A: Yes, it's important to be aware that dogs have different reasons for licking and that they carry bacteria in their saliva. While licking is often a sign of affection, it's always a good idea to wash your hands after your dog licks them.