Why do dogs lick you? 4 reasons why your pooch likes to lick – including sign of respect

Ever wondered why your dog licks you? There might be several reasons from showing affection to try to taste what food you’ve eaten. Here are four reasons for the common canine habit

If you’re a dog owner, chances are you’re used to being licked by your furry friend more than once in your daily interactions.

Dogs have many habits and behaviours – some normal and others a bit gross – ranging from chasing their tail to eating poo, but licking is definitely one of the most common canine habits.

Humans often interpret licking as a way that dogs show their affection, however, the meaning behind this canine behaviour can actually vary from dog to dog.

Here are four reasons why your dogs may be licking you, according to pet expert and founder of Yappy.com John Smith.

Why do dogs lick you?

Showing love

Dogs are often licked by their mothers when they are puppies. So it’s believed that dogs have an instinct to lick things to show their affection.

It’s also believed that the action of licking releases happy hormones in dogs, which calms them down.

Pet expert John Smith explains: “Whether your dog greets you excitedly with kisses when you return home or they’re just happy to see you throughout the day, most of the time, dog licks are a sign of love and affection.”

Showing empathy

Another reason that dogs lick you is to try and detect your mood. Dogs are highly sensory animals and use licking as a sensory tool to gauge who you are and how you’re feeling.

A dog’s tongue has millions of sensory cells, so they can lick new people to understand them better. If you appear to be upset, your dog mirrors this feeling and uses licking as a way to comfort you.

Expressing trust

Dogs also lick you as a way to express submission and trust in you. They are communicating that they consider you the leader of their pack.

John Smith explains: “For dogs, licking the leader of their pack is typical canine behaviour that dates back to when dogs evolved from wolves in the wild, when dogs would lick their pack leader when reunited with them to show their obedience and loyalty.”

Tasting you

Sometimes, your dogs want to lick you just because you taste good to them!

This might be leftover taste or subtle smells of your recent meal on your hands or face. Studies have also shown that dog tongues can taste salt, which might explain why they lick you when you’re sweaty.

Is licking a cause of concern for dogs?

Licking is often a way for dogs to bond, groom or express their feelings and emotions.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that excessive licking can also be a sign that your dog isn’t feeling well.

Sometimes, licking can be a sign of nausea in dogs. So if your dog doesn’t usually lick you much, but you note a change of behaviour or it is accompanied any other signs of illness, it’s best to contact your vet just to be on the safe side.