Why do dogs lick you?

Dogs may lick you for a whole load of different reasons. I interpret it to be a positive thing more so than a negative – it's usually your dog’s way of showing affection, and a natural, instinctive behaviour for many dogs. Just remember to always practise good hygiene!

However, licking can also be a call for attention, a source of comfort or a sign of anxiety.

We can’t be 100% sure why our canine friends would feel the need to lick us. But it can be helpful to have an inkling as to why they may be doing it. That way, you can understand your dog’s needs and respond appropriately. Here are five reasons why your pooch might lick you.

​​​Your little friend might be trying to catch your attention or tell you something. Dogs who lick to attention-seek usually wouldn’t lick in any other instances, so when this happens, make sure to engage with your pup.

It’s not always obvious what your dog is telling you, so investigating your dog’s surroundings is a good idea. Maybe their water bowl is empty? Perhaps their favourite toy is out of reach? Or they might need to go outside for a quick toilet visit.

In my personal experience, affection is the most common reason why your dog might be licking you. Licking is seen as ‘mutual grooming’ in the dog world. And if you respond positively when they do it, they’re likely to reinforce this behaviour.

I believe that licking releases endorphins, which help your pooch to calm down in stressful situations.

Dogs sometimes lick their owners when they’re feeling anxious or nervous. We often see them lick their paws in these moments, and this can sometimes be redirected to their parent.

If your furry friend starts licking their feet and it isn’t a usual behaviour, try to figure out what is causing them stress, then take them out of that environment.

Your dog might lick you simply because you taste good! My pooch Nala licks me all the time after I come back from a run, as she likes the salty sweat!

Dogs can also pick up information using their nose and mouth. Due to their heightened senses, they like to lick their surroundings and others as a way of digesting information.

Your canine’s lick may also indicate that they are hungry. Puppies lick their mother’s mouth to encourage her to regurgitate food for them to eat. This behaviour could extend in adult dogs, although I haven’t witnessed this in my veterinary experience.

If your dog is licking as a sign of hunger, I would recommend being careful about how you respond. If you reward them with food, then this can develop into a learned behaviour which can lead to an extension of additional begging behaviours.

​​​As slobbery as it may be, many dog parents enjoy their pup’s lick/kiss. (Given that their breath is tolerable!) However, it’s important to remember that dogs carry a number of different bacteria in their mouths. It would be sensible to assume that face licking has the potential to be harmful to humans. Although, I personally would say it is a very low risk to healthy adults. That said, I would always advise care to children, older individuals, immunosuppressed individuals and pregnant women.

If your dog is licking due to stress and or anxiety, it can lead to other anxiety driven behaviours, such as chewing, or excessive licking to the point where they cause themselves skin issues that need to be addressed by your vet.

If this happens, closely monitor and consult your vet. Sometimes when new behaviours begin, it is an indication of a medical problem. If this fails, contacting a behaviourist will help you diagnose the issue.

If your dog is licking due to a problem relating to the above, and you have had vet guidance, I would recommend redirecting your dog’s attention. This can be via stimulation such as a fun game, a good long walk or an extra delicious meal.

​As forementioned, licking is a natural, instinctive behaviour for dogs. Some dogs may not lick very much at all, but for dogs who do, it will be very difficult to stop them from doing it completely. However, if they are problem licking, then there are a few methods you can do to. First: try to understand what your pooch is trying to tell you. If this doesn't’ work, then you can:

• ​Move away whenever they begin licking

• ​Distract them (see above)

• ​Give them exercise

• Teach them to do something that would redirect their licking and provide them with positive attention

​Always visit your vet if you have any concerns.

The information in this article is intended as a guide to help pets and pet parents on their journey together. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional advice from a vet, behaviourist, trainer or other professional. We encourage all pet parents to consult with their vet and/or behaviourist to ensure their pet’s specific needs are met.