What does it mean when my dog licks me?

Learn why your dog licks you and what it means. We dive into the most common reasons, from affection to attention seeking.

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Devotion and social bonding

One of the most common reasons your dog licks you is simply to show affection. Dogs are social creatures and licking is part of their natural behavior that they learn from a very young age. The bitch licks her puppies to keep them clean and to show them where they belong in the pack.

Declarations of love

When your dog licks you, it may be their way of saying "I love you". It's a way to strengthen the bond between you and show that you are an important part of their life.

Attention and communication

Another common reason your dog licks you is to get your attention. Maybe they want to play, go for a walk or just want some affection. By licking you, your dog is communicating its needs and trying to get you to notice it.

Communication strategies

• If your dog is licking you intensely, it could be a sign that it is hungry or thirsty.
• The dog may also be trying to tell you that he needs to pee.

Exploration and curiosity

Dogs use their snouts and tongues to explore the world around them. When your dog licks you, it may be their way of investigating your smell or taste. Human sweat contains salt, which many dogs find tasty, which may explain why your dog licks extra hard when you've been sweating.

Exploration

Your dog may also lick you to understand more about where you've been or what you've been eating. Your dog gets lots of information through the taste and smell of your skin.

Stress reduction and reassurance

Licking can have a calming effect on your dog. When your dog licks you, endorphins are released, making them feel more calm and relaxed. This can be especially true if your dog licks a lot during stressful situations.

Soothing rituals

For many dogs, licking behavior is a way to find safety and comfort, which can be very important for dogs suffering from anxiety or insecurity.

When licking becomes too much

While it's normal for dogs to lick, sometimes it can become too much. Excessive licking can be a sign that your dog is feeling stressed, anxious or bored. If you notice your dog licking you or himself to an extreme degree, you should consider consulting a veterinarian to rule out health issues.

Managing excessive licking

• Ignore your dog when he licks you for attention. Remove yourself from the situation without scolding.
• Give the dog more exercise and mental stimulation to reduce boredom and anxiety.
• Use toys and activation exercises to distract the dog from licking.

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Michelle is a passionate dog owner who spends most of her free time with her 6-year-old golden retriever, Bella. The two are a familiar sight in the neighborhood, often seen on long walks in the park or at the beach. Michelle loves training Bella in agility and they often compete in local competitions where Bella impresses with her speed and agility. Every Sunday, Michelle organizes playdates for dogs in the neighborhood where both dogs and owners can socialize and learn from each other. To Michelle, Bella is not just a dog, but a beloved family member and faithful companion.