Here's Why Dogs Lick You Like Mad, According To A Vet
Say what you will about their shedding, their potty-related "accidents," and their tendency to chew on the most expensive of shoes: dogs are the best. There's nothing like coming home after a long day to a pet who loves you so wholeheartedly, and dogs are known to be the most affectionate household pet around. Some dogs show that affection through tail wags, jumping up to greet you, and, yes, licking. Those puppy dog kisses can be gross, sure, but their slobber is how they show they care (since they can't, you know, actually tell you out loud that they missed you and love you). That's not the only reason a dog may lick you, though. And as cute as those poppy dog kisses can be, there are some moments when it's best to not let your pooch lick your face.
Why do dogs lick you?
Dr. Terrence Ferguson, a veterinarian practicing at Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital, tells Woman's Day that first and foremost, "dogs lick people to show their affection towards them." He adds that they may also lick to soothe or relax themselves, much like when a child reaches for a blanket or beloved stuffed animal, or when an adult plays with their hair while reading or mindlessly cracks their knuckles while watching a television show. And according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), dogs also like the slightly salty taste of our skin, so it's common that they'll be more inclined to lick you after we've just completed a sweaty workout.
Licking is also thought to be passed down from wild dog behavior, according to Pedigree, a company that makes and sells dog food. So when your dog gives you those slobbery, wet kisses, they're reliving the days when dogs would lick each other to increase their pack bonds, or to show respect to a dominant pack member.
Puppies lick more than adult dogs.
Ferguson says that while the habit of licking is common in all dog breeds, puppies tend to lick more than adult dogs. "They are new to this world and are trying to figure things out," he explains. And in the absence of hands, they use their tongues.
Wild puppies would also lick their mom's face when they were hungry, and in return she would regurgitate food for them, much like a mama bird might, according to Pedigree. It was easier for the mother dog to go out and eat and bring the food back in her stomach than expend the energy bringing the meal home in her mouth.
So if your puppy is enthusiastically licking your face, they may be hungry. But because dogs learn by reinforcement, don't feed or give a treat right after they've licked your face, or they may think giving you wet kisses is the only way they'll receive food.
When licking may be bad.
Doggy kisses are cute, to be sure, but sometimes they can cause problems or be a sign of a larger issue. Ferguson advises you do not allow your dog lick near or on your mouth, for example, because those slobbery kisses can actually spread parasites from your dog to you. "Also, during this time of COVID19, it is a good idea that if you have a fever or [are] not feeling well that you [don't] let your dog lick your face," he adds.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC), a small number of dogs and cats have been tested positive for COVID19 after coming into close contact with people who had also contracted the virus, but it hasn't been an extremely widespread issue. Still, as Ferguson points out, this is a new virus and medical and scientific professionals are still learning about it. In other words, it's better to be safe than sorry.
A post shared by Dr. Terrence Ferguson (@drferguson_critterfixer) on Mar 24, 2020 at 8:56am PDT
Additionally, per the AKC's website, a dog's excessive licking of you, themselves, or objects in your home could be "a sign of anxiety, boredom, or pain." Some dogs may also lick floors or anything nearby obsessively to make themselves throw up. If they were outside, they'd probably be eating grass to stimulate vomiting, but when indoors, licking carpets or hardwood may be their attempt to relieve nausea.
If your dog is excessively licking out of suspected boredom, anxiety, pain, or nausea, keep an eye on the behavior and consult a vet if necessary.
But if your dog just gives a few friendly licks every once in a while, or they're a puppy using their tongue to explore the world and let you know it's time for some food, it's probably OK to accept those doggy kisses. Just try to avoid overly rewarding the behavior... and keep them away from your mouth.
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