Why Do Dogs Lick? A Comprehensive Guide

Have you asked yourself Why does my dog lick everything so much?

Dog licking is a common behaviour that can often leave owners puzzled. Understanding the reasons behind this behaviour can help you better connect with your furry friend and address any underlying concerns.

You may like that your dog licks you and gives you kisses but there are things that you need to be aware of. 

What does it mean if a dog licks you?

There are many reasons for licking, when it happens, look at the situation it occurs in, this can give you an indication of why. Here are some reasons for dogs licking.

1. Affection: Licking is a natural form of grooming for dogs, and they often use it to show affection towards their owners or other dogs. Both my dogs love to lick me but only in the morning when I first get up, I see it as affection, or maybe I taste nice at that time in the morning, or maybe it is their way of saying hello to me. 

2. Habit: When dogs find doing something fun and important, their brains repeat those behaviours so licking becomes a regular habit. 

3. Stress or Anxiety: Licking can be a self-soothing behaviour, helping dogs cope with stress or anxiety. Lip licking is a common stress response and you should listen to your dog and define what is triggering the behaviour. 

4. Boredom: If a dog is bored or understimulated, it may resort to licking to occupy itself.

5. Medical Issues: Excessive licking can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition, such as allergies, skin infections, underlying pain, arthritis, gut issues or hormonal imbalances.

6. Taste: Dogs don’t have as many taste buds as we do, but sometimes they lick when something is tasty to them or if they are incredibly hungry they may lick areas where their food is or items you put food in. 

7. OCD: Dogs can suffer from OCD they lick themselves, objects, and their owners and they find it difficult to stop, the causes of OCD are often behavioural and a behavioural assessment will be necessary to identify the root cause. 

8. To Clean A Wound: A dog’s saliva contains proteins that can help them clean the wound, but studies found that not all wounds will heal better when licked.

   

   When to Consult a Veterinarian or a Behaviourist 

   While licking is a normal behaviour for dogs, excessive or obsessive licking can be a cause for concern. If you notice your dog licking excessively, especially in unusual places, or if it is causing open wounds it's important to consult with a veterinarian. They can rule out any medical issues and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

   If your dog's licking is excessive and they cannot disengage from licking themselves or objects it can be linked to behavioural issues and a behaviourist would help identify the root cause of their behaviour and create a plan to change the root cause. 

   

Should You Let A Dog Lick You?

That is a personal choice, however, you could be at risk of getting parasites from dogs' saliva and bacteria can be spread when being licked. If you want your dog to lick you ensure they are free of parasites, and that you wash the area thoroughly. 

How to Manage Excessive Licking

Licking is natural and not always an issue. But if you are in doubt about your dog licking, contact your vet for advice. 

• Identify the cause: Try to determine what might be triggering your dog's licking behaviour and work with a force-free training plan to change it. 

• Provide mental stimulation: Ensure your dog has plenty of toys, puzzles, and exercise to keep them mentally engaged.

• Reduce stress: Create a calm and comfortable environment for your dog.

• Consult a veterinarian: If you suspect an underlying medical issue, seek professional advice.

By understanding the reasons behind your dog's licking behaviour and taking appropriate steps, you can help them live a happier and healthier life.

Please have a look at the other great blog by Rovers Return Dog Training. Based in Ullesthorpe, Lutterworth, but covering Leicestershire, we offer reactive dog behaviour consultations and dog training.