Dogs lick human cuts primarily due to instinct. It's a natural behavior stemming from their innate desire to clean and heal wounds. This instinct is also seen in other animals. Licking, for a dog, is their way of providing rudimentary first aid.
Multiple Factors at Play
Several factors contribute to a dog's licking behavior:
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Cleaning: Licking helps remove dirt and debris from the wound, promoting a cleaner environment for healing. While dog saliva does possess some antibacterial properties (AKC), it's crucial to understand that this is not a replacement for proper human wound care.
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Pain Relief: The act of licking can stimulate the wound, potentially providing a temporary pain-relieving effect (Dogster, PetMD). This over-stimulation can distract from the discomfort.
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Scent: Wounds have a distinct odor that may intrigue a dog's sense of smell. Licking could be an attempt to investigate this unusual scent.
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Attention Seeking: Some dogs might lick wounds to gain their owner's attention. The reaction from the owner (even a negative one) reinforces the behavior.
Potential Risks
While licking might seem helpful, it's important to remember that allowing a dog to lick your wounds carries risks:
- Infection: Dog saliva, while containing some beneficial components, also harbors bacteria that can introduce infection into the wound.
- Delayed Healing: Excessive licking can irritate the wound, preventing proper healing and potentially leading to complications.
Conclusion
While a dog's licking instinct stems from a desire to clean and soothe, it's crucial to prevent this behavior with open wounds. Proper human wound care should always be prioritized.
