Dogs "kiss" humans, which is essentially licking, primarily as a sign of affection. However, there are other contributing reasons.
Reasons Why Dogs Lick
Here's a breakdown of the common reasons:
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Affection: This is the most common reason. Dogs learn to associate licking with positive reinforcement and attention from their owners. It's their way of saying "I love you."
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Taste: Your skin might taste salty or have remnants of food, lotions, or other appealing substances. Dogs explore the world through their senses, including taste.
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Attention Seeking: If a dog licks you and gets a positive reaction (pets, talking, etc.), they will likely repeat the behavior to gain your attention.
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Submissive Behavior: Licking can also be a sign of submission or respect. It can be a remnant of puppyhood behavior, where puppies lick their mothers as a sign of deference.
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Stress Relief: As the reference states, a dog might lick someone who is stressed or agitated in an attempt to comfort them and relieve their stress. It’s a learned behavior, associating licking with a positive outcome.
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Communication: Licking can be a form of communication within the dog pack (or the human family, as the dog sees it). It might be used to signal hunger, pain, or other needs, especially in puppies.
When Licking Might Be Problematic
While licking is usually harmless, excessive licking can sometimes indicate:
- Anxiety or compulsive behavior: If a dog is constantly licking themselves or objects, it could be a sign of anxiety or an obsessive-compulsive disorder. Consult with a veterinarian or a certified dog behaviorist.
- Medical condition: In rare cases, excessive licking may be related to a medical issue. It's best to rule out any underlying health concerns with your vet if you observe a sudden change in your dog's licking habits.
In conclusion, dogs lick humans primarily to show affection, but also for taste, attention, communication, and to relieve stress. While generally harmless, excessive licking may indicate underlying issues that require veterinary or behavioral attention.
