If you have a dog, you’ll be no stranger to licks from your four-legged friend. Whether it’s a little quick lick or a big slobbery one, it can be a pretty cute gesture from your pooch. This behaviour is very common and normal for dogs, but have you ever wondered what it means when a dog licks you?
In this blog, we’ll be decoding that smooch from your pooch to answer the question, ‘Why does my dog lick me?’.
Why does my dog lick me?
A slobbery kiss from your dog usually happens when they’re happy to see you, as you will have experienced, and can be downright adorable. But what exactly does it mean when a dog licks you?
There are actually many potential reasons why dogs lick you. Below, we cover the various reasons why dogs do this to help you better understand what this behaviour may mean.
Showing affection
If you’ve interpreted your dog’s licks as their version of a big kiss, you’re probably right! Licking is often a way that dogs express their affection and is a greeting, signaling their trust and affection. So, if you’re getting licked by your dog, they likely love you just as much as you love them. How cute!
Seeking attention
If your pooch is feeling a little bored or lonely, licking you may be a way of getting your attention! If you think this may be the case, be sure to make a fuss of them. As we all know, there's nothing that a dog loves more than being the centre of attention.
Smell and taste
Dogs are ever-curious animals, so it’s no surprise that their habit of licking can come as part of that! If a dog is licking you, it may be because you taste nice to them! If you’ve just finished a workout, the salty sweat on your skin can be appealing to dogs. Parts of the body that give strong smells, such as the face and ears, are usually the most enticing!
Comfort and stress relief
Licking actually releases endorphins for dogs, which are chemicals that occur in the brain that produce a ‘feel-good’ feeling. So, if your dog is licking you, it may be a way that they’re helping themselves to relax and feel comfortable.
What is the origin of dogs licking?
As you will know, dogs are descended from wolves, so it makes sense that they have some behaviours left over from their wild ancestors. The origin of dog licking is a little bit gross, so you’ve been warned!
Dogs licking is thought to originate from when a wolf puppy will lick around their mother’s mouth after they’ve come home from a hunt. This is to get them to regurgitate their food so that they can also eat some. Though with this in mind, this behaviour is purely instinctual, and your dog’s usual dog food will be just fine!
Should I be worried about my dog licking?
Dogs licking is a perfectly normal behaviour, so it is generally nothing to worry about. There may be times when you find your dog is licking excessively, so keeping them distracted or moving or walking away can prevent this behaviour from persisting. You should also ensure your dog does not lick any open wounds, as this can introduce bacteria and lead to infections.
Though typically not something to worry about, there is the possibility that if your dog is licking itself excessively, it could be a sign of a problem. There is a chance that your dog could be in pain, tending to an injury, or experiencing an allergy, so be sure to visit the vet if you think this could be the case.
Get in touch
Now that you know why your dog licks you, you can understand your pooch’s smooches all the better! For more blogs to help you look after your furry friend, be sure to take a look at our pet advice articles. There, you can find all kinds of useful tips for keeping your dog, cat, or fish happy and healthy!
If you have any questions about our many dog products and how they can help you and your pup, be sure to get in touch with us. We’ll be more than happy to give you a helping paw!