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Why do dogs lick you?
Petplan | Dog Training Tips and Advice • January 29, 2021
Why do dogs lick you?
Dogs lick themselves in nature for several reasons. It helps them with healing, grooming, social interactions and even nurturing their young. Why do dogs lick us though? Are they giving us love or is it for another reason?
We can’t read dog’s minds, so we may never know the answers for sure, but we can make some educated judgements. Here are some of the possible reasons for your dog’s licks and whether you should let them carry on.
Affection
When dogs are young, their mothers spend lots of time licking them – it is a nurturing behaviour. Domestic dogs love to lick their owners, because they want to show them their love.
Communication
In nature, dogs tend to be pack animals. Licking plays a large role in this, as they use it to communicate with one another.
Reward
Often when dogs lick people, this interaction is reciprocated. You might start petting them, scratching them, or even give them some food.
Taste
It may seem a bit unpleasant to us, but our skin is home to a great many tastes. Particles of food we had for dinner, sweat and even just the grease and bacteria that exist naturally on our skin; this can all taste great to a dog.
What to do if you want your dog to stop
While the reasons for our dogs licking us are generally benevolent, there is no doubt that excessive licking can become an annoyance. If your dog licks you constantly and you would like it to stop, do not feel guilty.
The most effective way to stop your dog licking you seems to be removing the positive affirmation of the behaviour and indicating your disapproval to your canine companion. In future, when your dog licks you, you should ignore them. Move away from them and turn your back.
It can be hard to do this. None of us like ignoring our dogs but remind yourself that this will benefit them in the long-term.
Read the full article from Petplan including dog training tips and advice from pet behaviourist Nick Jones at https://www.petplan.co.uk/pet-information/blog/why-do-dogs-lick-you/
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