Our dogs are affectionate by nature and are known to express it in several ways. One of the most common behaviours they exhibit is by licking their owners. You may notice it happening whenever you’re near your pet, especially when you come home from work or while cuddling with you on a chill afternoon. While this gesture can be ticklish and endearing, you may wonder what it means when your dog licks you. Is this behaviour normal? When do you know if the licking is done out of affection or a sign of something else?

In this article, we’ll delve into the common reasons why dogs lick you and your face, how to know what’s normal, and how to control your dog’s licking behaviour when it becomes too much.

Why Do Dogs Lick You

As social creatures, dogs use licking as a form of communication to convey emotions, similar to why they wag their tails. Especially if it’s towards their owners, most of their licking is done out of affection and love, which also help strengthen their bond with you. It’s become a behaviour to inhibit social bonding and establishes a connection between you and your dog. 

There are other explanations as to why they lick you, themselves, or even other dogs. Here are common signs and reasons why dogs lick so much. 

Reasons Why Your Dogs Lick You So Much

Instinct

Dogs licking are ingrained in their natural instincts to groom themselves. When they do it, it’s a way to keep themselves clean. On the other hand, if they extend this behaviour towards you, it can reciprocate the grooming habits they engage in with their pack members.

Showing Affection

Additionally, licking releases endorphins in dogs, which helps them feel content and happy, further reinforcing the bond between you. Dogs lick you to show their love and affection. It’s why this action is synonymous with “kissing” for them.

Showing Empathy

Because dogs are receptive animals, they can read and understand you well, especially if they’re attuned to your emotions and feelings. Dogs lick you to provide comfort and as a way to show their concern. It’s their way of making you feel better and that they care for you whenever you’re feeling sad.

For Attention

This action, more often than not, happens before the showing of affection. It’s reinforced when dogs notice the attention they get whenever you lick them, and it invokes a reaction out of you. It’s a way for you to pay attention to them if they’re maybe feeling bored or lonely. In some cases, when this is done and the dog is not properly taught how to react, they may do this action in response to negative types of commands (saying “no” for example), which may lead to encouragement of the licking behaviour.

You Taste Good

If you notice your dog licking you more than usual, especially if you’re sweaty, or after you’ve eaten something, it’s because you smell and taste good enough to lick. Salt, leftover food stains, or nice-smelling products emit a smell that piques your dog’s interest and will cause them to start licking you. 

They’re Hungry

Aside from licking their lips when they’re feeling hungry, they also lick you to signal that they want to eat. It’s an instinctive behaviour that shows they’re hungry. 

They’re Anxious

Part of their innate behaviour while licking themselves or their owner, dogs lick to comfort and provide relief for themselves. This action lets them feel relaxed, calm, and at ease. This is why when they feel anxious, stressed, or have separation anxiety, they will start licking you or themselves to feel better and be less anxious.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

In some rare cases, some dogs develop Obsessive Compulsive Disorder when it comes to licking. It’s usually linked to long-term stress and anxiety that shows itself through the constant licking of other people, objects, and themselves. Due to this, they also develop tongue sores and bald patches on parts of their bodies. If you suspect your dog to manifest this behaviour, you may consult with your veterinarian. 

When Does Licking Become a Problem?

Normally, licking is a normal part of your dog’s behaviour and is linked to their innate instincts as a way of expression and communication. However, it’s understandable that not everyone appreciates or likes getting licked, so experts suggest redirecting the behaviour. Licking becomes a problem when it’s linked to more serious problems or issues. If this behaviour becomes too much wherein your dog starts licking you, objects around them, and other people too much, it’s a sign that they may be bored, anxious, or in pain. If they start licking themselves too much, it can be an indication that they have health or allergy issues. 

What Can Dog Owners Do About Problematic Licking? 

Take note that licking is a natural and normal part of your dog’s behaviour. However, if you notice that your dog starts licking obsessively and excessively, you may consult with your veterinarian to check for possible health issues. However, if the issue has nothing to do with their health, you may consult with them for behaviour training and apply that as a way to redirect their actions instead. 

The licking behaviour can be in response to anything when it becomes problematic, and it is enabled when attention is given to it – whether it’s negative or positive. Most vets and experts recommend redirecting this behaviour instead. When they lick, change the activity or ignore it. You can also re-engage your pet with mentally stimulating activities like puzzle toys that have treats, do fun physical activities such as fetching, or start trick training. Repeating this redirection will train the behavioural response of your dog to let them know you don’t want them to lick without doing it with negative reinforcement.  

Conclusion

In conclusion, dogs lick their owners for various reasons, including communication, bonding, affection, taste, seeking attention, and displaying empathy. It is also a way for them to communicate how they’re feeling, whether they’re hungry, bored, or anxious. Licking is a common behaviour deeply rooted in their social and instinctual nature. While it can be a sign of affection, it’s essential to consider the context in which the licking occurs and your dog’s overall behaviour and well-being. Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s licking behaviour can help strengthen your bond and enhance your relationship with your furry companion. In addition, it helps you understand their behaviour better. Remember to provide positive reinforcement for desired behaviour, and seek professional advice if you have concerns about excessive licking or other behavioural issues in your dog. Redirecting their excessive licking is the best way to train them to stop the problematic behaviour.