Why do dogs lick you?

As dog owners, we’ve all experienced those wet, slobbery kisses from our beloved furry companions. But have you ever wondered why dogs lick you?

From a gentle swipe across your hand to an enthusiastic lick fest on your face, dogs lick people to bond and communicate with them. Licking can be your dog’s way of letting you know how much they love you, or it can also be a self-soothing tactic when they’re feeling stressed.

Not sure what your dog’s trying to tell you? We’ve put together this helpful guide to help you figure out what they’re trying to say.

So why is your furry best friend licking you? Dogs licking humans is a natural behavior deeply rooted in their instinctive and social nature. While each dog is unique, there are several common reasons why dogs engage in licking behavior.

While occasional licking is normal at certain times, excessive licking can – and should – raise concerns for pet owners. If your dog licks excessively and persistently, it’s essential to investigate the underlying causes and address medical problems appropriately. Here are a few possible reasons for excessive licking:

Remember, always check with your vet to make sure there isn’t an underlying problem that’s causing your dog’s licks. If there isn’t a medical issue and you find your dog’s licking behavior problematic or uncomfortable, here are some strategies to manage and redirect their licking tendencies:

Move away and stay neutral — Yelling and punishment never help dogs understand what they’re doing wrong, so it’s important not to get mad at your dog for excessive licking. When the licking starts, try moving away from them without giving positive or negative attention. If this doesn’t work, you may have to move to another room entirely. This gradually reinforces the idea that excessive licking isn’t something people enjoy.

Keep yourself clean — If you find your dog licks you more after you eat or exercise, you may be able to curb the problem just by keeping yourself clean. Shower regularly, and give the area around your mouth a good rinse after meals to rid yourself of any enticing crumbs and scents.

Reinforce alternate behaviors — You can always redirect your dog’s attention and provide alternative behaviors to replace excessive licking. Engage them in interactive play sessions, offer puzzle toys, or teach them new commands to redirect their energy positively.

👉 You can also use a lick mat to give your dog a safe, non-destructive outlet for their licking. Put a little dog-safe yogurt or peanut butter over the top of it, and they’ll take care of the rest. 

Positive reinforcement — Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and affection, can help reinforce good behavior and discourage unwanted licking. Reward your dog when they exhibit desirable behaviors and refrain from excessive licking.

Provide mental and physical stimulation — Ensure that your dog’s daily routine includes ample opportunities for physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. This can help alleviate boredom and reduce the likelihood of excessive licking.

Consistency and training — Consistency is key when addressing any behavior. Establish clear boundaries and use positive training methods to discourage excessive licking. Professional dog trainers or behaviorists can provide valuable guidance and support in addressing specific behavioral concerns.

While licking is perfectly safe in most instances, there are a couple of exceptions. For instance, if you feed your dog a raw or freeze-dried diet, they could transmit harmful pathogens to you and others through their saliva.

You should also make sure to have them regularly tested for parasites and vaccinated for diseases like rabies. Elderly and immunocompromised people should exercise extra caution when letting a dog lick them, and avoid letting them lick anywhere near their mouth or face.

Dogs lick you for various reasons, ranging from clingy affection and communication to exploration and sensory stimulation. Understanding the motivations behind their licking behavior can help strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion.

While occasional licking is a natural part of canine behavior, excessive licking may indicate underlying issues that require attention. By identifying the root causes and implementing appropriate management techniques, you can ensure that your dog’s licking behavior remains within healthy limits.