Dogs are very popular for licking humans, something that many people associate with love and affection. Even though experts have not completely been able to prove why dogs lick humans, they share several reasons for this behaviour.
Most of the reasons by experts should not worry us, as they pose no harm to both us and our furry friends. Certified applied animal behaviourist Dr Mary Burch notes that, naturally, human bodies have some salty taste. This can be worse when a person is sweating as the sweat has a bit of salt in it. Dr Mary adds that licking is your dog’s way of seeking salt.
We have compiled a few reasons by experts on why we often find our feet and faces licked by our dogs.
Affection – This is a very common reason that is believed by many people. It is said that dogs lick us to show affection. This is a habit they mostly learn as a puppy when their moms show them affection. Experts also note that not all dogs like licking, some do it more and some rarely. As a dog owner, animal expert hub TheSprucePets shares that it shouldn’t worry you that your dog licks you randomly as that does not mean it is less affectionate.
Seeking Attention – Our four-legged friends are also attention seekers. Often when they want to engage with you or feeling bored, they may lick humans. TheSprucePets notes, “When a dog is seeking attention, they will feel rewarded by any kind of attention, even the negative type. Pushing them away, saying “no,” or even administering punishment still means you’re not ignoring the licking. This can encourage the licking even further.”
Taste – Dogs love to taste, which is why some experts believe that they sometimes lick humans to feel their taste, the aforementioned hub shares. This is not bad at all, as it “is a way for them to explore their world,” adds TheSprucePets.
Habit – Licking may just be a habit that your dog has learnt but can’t get over, shares pets insurance PetsBestInsurance. They share that if your dog has this habit, you may get them to stop by redirecting their attention elsewhere.
Skin conditions – Certain skin conditions may lead to your dog licking itself. These could be caused by underlying illnesses that affect the whole body or some skin conditions that are associated with immune response to rereleased disease notes PetsBestInsurance. If this is suspected or if your dog’s licking gets aggressive, you may want to visit your nearest vet.
Also see: Tricks to teach your dog good behaviour
