Your dog is likely licking your blood because they are attracted to its scent, and they may be trying to clean your wound or comfort you.
Here's a breakdown of the possible reasons:
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Strong Sense of Smell: Dogs possess an incredibly sensitive sense of smell. The scent of blood is highly noticeable to them, piquing their interest.
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Instinct to Clean Wounds: In the wild, licking wounds is a natural behavior. Dog saliva contains enzymes and proteins that have some antibacterial properties. While licking can help remove debris, it's important to note that dog saliva also contains bacteria that can potentially cause infection. So it's a double edged sword.
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Comfort and Concern: Dogs are pack animals and are attuned to the well-being of their owners. If your dog senses you are injured, they may be attempting to comfort you through licking. This is an expression of empathy and care.
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Taste: Let's be honest, some dogs might simply like the taste of blood.
What to Do:
While a dog's intentions may be good, it's usually best to discourage them from licking your wounds. Here's why and what you can do:
- Risk of Infection: Dog saliva contains bacteria that can introduce infection into a wound.
- Wound Irritation: Excessive licking can irritate the wound and slow down the healing process.
Instead:
- Clean the wound thoroughly with antiseptic.
- Cover the wound with a bandage to protect it and prevent licking.
- If the wound is serious, seek medical attention.
