Why Does My Dog Lick Me?

Dogs don’t just lick for one reason so when you’re trying to work out why your dog is licking you so much there are going to be several possibilities. It may not be that complicated to work out. If you’ve just been cooking and handling some tasty food and your pooch gets a taste and starts to lick your hand then it’s probably safe to assume that they’re just enjoying whatever you’ve been touching. They also quite enjoy the taste of salt so if you’ve been hard at work in the garden and your pup is licking your pup is licking your legs, you’ve essentially become a sweaty human salt lick! Tasting something good isn’t the only reason for licking though, it could be something else that they’re trying to communicate with you.

One of the primary reasons dogs lick is to show affection. When your dog showers you with sloppy kisses, they're not only expressing their love but also triggering the release of pleasurable endorphins in their brains. This behaviour is a natural way for dogs to bond with their human family members and strengthen social connections. You might have noticed if you have two or more dogs that they’ll groom each other by licking ears or paws. Grooming is a display of strong ties to each other and it’s very similar when your pooch licks you. It may be an act of self care in soothing themselves and releasing some happy brain chemicals but they’re also looking after their family and making sure you’re kept looking at your best - nice and slobbery.

This is exactly why your dog licks you while you stroke them. You are showing them affection and care and their way of doing that right back is a lick. If you settle down with your pup and they decide it’s bath time for you, you can always pull out a brush and give them a groom to return the favour.

Dogs experience the world through their senses, and their tongues play a crucial role in gathering information about their environment. Their tongues are incredibly sensitive, allowing them to taste and feel different surfaces. So, when your dog licks surfaces or objects, they're essentially conducting a sensory exploration to learn more about their surroundings. It’s a common misconception that dogs have more tastebuds than we do. Humans have around 9000 while your canine companion has around 1700. This doesn’t mean they can’t taste as well, in fact they have special receptors just for tasting water which is something we lack entirely. Different water will have a different flavour for them which is why they can have such varied preferences about where they like to drink from the most.

Taste tells your dog a lot about their environment, it’s similar to having a toddler, only your pooch never grows out of putting everything in their mouth to see what it is. You might notice that your beloved pet licks you more when you’ve been out somewhere or you’ve changed your shower gel, they’re just taking in information.

Licking can also serve as a coping mechanism for dogs dealing with anxiety or stress. Just like humans may turn to comforting habits during times of distress. It’s very similar to habits we can develop like nail-biting or playing with your hair. Dogs may lick themselves or their surroundings to self-soothe which can quite easily include you, especially if you are a source of comfort to them. If you notice your dog licking excessively, it could be a sign that they're feeling anxious or uneasy. You might notice they only do it in specific situations like when new people are over or if there are loud noises outside.

You can use a multitude of natural anxiety treatments to help calm your beloved pet in stressful situations. Some calming pheromones from the Adaptil Calming Spray can help to take the edge off their stress and help them relax. 

In some cases, excessive licking can be indicative of underlying medical issues. Allergies, skin irritations, wounds, or even internal ailments can trigger compulsive licking behaviour in dogs. If your canine companion isn’t feeling their best they may be licking themselves to soothe any aches and pains but this can also make them lick you. Since licking makes them feel better, they may not just be licking themselves to comfort them from whatever discomfort they’re feeling. If they’re licking you a lot it’s a good idea to check them over to make sure they aren’t also overgrooming themselves and causing damage.

It's essential to monitor your dog's licking habits and seek veterinary assistance if you suspect there may be an underlying health issue causing the behaviour.

To decipher the meaning behind your dog's licking, it's crucial to consider the context in which the behaviour occurs. Is your dog licking you when you get home from work, indicating excitement and affection? Or are they licking you excessively, suggesting discomfort or anxiety? Paying attention to these contextual clues can help you interpret your dog's intentions accurately.

Occasional licking during grooming or affectionate gestures is normal. However, if your dog licks excessively, to the point of causing irritation or injury, it may be a cause for concern. By understanding why dogs lick, you can strengthen your bond with your furry friend and ensure their well-being.

Remember to pay attention to context, frequency, and any changes in your dog's licking behaviour. You can consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog's health or behaviour. With a little insight and observation, you can decode your fur baby’s licking habits and foster a deeper connection with your canine companion!