Why do dogs lick?

Dogs lick to communicate, but for many owners, uncontrolled licking is an annoyance — or worse.

Frustrated owners, usually of new puppies or demanding, and amazingly spoiled dogs, often call to say they are being “licked to death,” and they don’t know what to do about it.

First, you need to understand what your dog is trying to tell you.

From the day they are born, puppies are licked by their mothers as a way to groom/clean, comfort and mark them.

When they get a little older, they learn that licking could inspire mom to feed them a few regurgitated morsels. Mom’s licking communicates a number of messages to her offspring; which they continue to practice on themselves, other animals and on us.

This could be a good thing or an annoying habit, which can become a serious behavioral issue.

Dogs lick to make a statement

Basically, licking makes a statement about your pet’s mood, grooming habits, level of submission, signs of affection and the one we have the hardest time with, the need for genitourinary stimulation.

Dogs learn by association. When your dog associates too much or the wrong kind of licking means you will leave them, they usually learn not to become obsessive about it…or not do it in front of you. The message they must learn is, one or two licks…and we’re good.

When we reward unwanted behavior by giving attention each time they demand it, we create a behavioral issue.

By knowing when, where, and how often to respond or ignore, we curtail their demand before it becomes a relentless problem that requires behavior modification.

Should you let your dog lick your face? 

Puppy kisses are full of affection, loyalty and about 700 kinds of bacteria. To be safe, you shouldn’t let your dog lick your face. Instead, limit puppy kisses to your hands or cheek, not your mouth. 

Wondering why does my dog lick my ear lobes? If your dog does this, your pup is just trying to be affectionate and show you that he loves you. 

Trying to figure out how do I get my dog to stop licking me? The best way to do that is to simply walk away and ignore them. Your dog will quickly learn that if she wants to spend time with you, she has to stop licking.

Communicating with other dogs

Licking the face of another dog is the universal doggie message, “I’m helpless, I submit to you.” or, “Hey I’m friendly and I’m so happy to see you.” This is an ancient behavior that has been normal since dogs were wolves.

When the wolf or wild dog pack returned from the hunt with supper, the subordinate members of the pack were happy to meet and greet the hunters, but they always had to wait their turn to eat. They displayed their happiness and submission by cowering and licking the mouths of the more dominant pack members. They were also hopeful the object of their admiration, would release a scrap or two.

Have you ever noticed your puppy or dog display their anxiety by nervously licking their chops? It is a display of submission and it’s self-consoling.

A word of caution, a dog that excessive licking could indicate a medical problem. That needs to be addressed immediately before it develops into a neurotic, self-consoling behavior. When dogs lick everything, it’s a symptom of dog compulsive order. And if your dog obsessively licks or chews her feet, it’s usually due to boredom, anxiety, lack of socialization, or excessive injury. 

To rule out a medical issue, consult with your vet. 

Natural grooming

Licking, as a means of grooming, is perfectly natural…it’s like taking a shower every morning. The problem is when they want to give you one too! Here again, one or two licks and we’re good, should be the message you send back.

Dogs lick open wounds, as a way of keeping it clean. For centuries, armies had packs of dogs tag along with them, for protection, as food sources and as “medics.” Their crucial task was to lick open wounds, to keep them clean, and disease free. It was and still is in some cultures, believed dog saliva helps to kill certain bacteria. That theory is debatable, and the jury is still out on it.

The genitourinary stimulation thing, as a rule, is, “if it feels good, why stop?” It’s your responsibility to curtail that behavior when it is inappropriate, and before it becomes an obsessive behavioral problem.

Types of messages

When dogs lick, it’s important for you to understand what your puppy or dog may be trying to communicate.

For example:

• “You have returned from the hunt safely…what did you bring me?”
• “Are you as happy to see me, as I am to see you!”
• “I need some consoling and reassuring.”
• “I’m sad because you’re upset.”
• “I submit.”
• “You’re hurt; here let me fix it.”
• “I’m depressed, or lonely and I need your attention.”
• “I have put my scent on you. You are mine, all mine!” Let’s face it, licking sure beats the alternative scent marking method.

Bottom line

Dogs lick as a way to communicate with their people. It’s up to you to understand what they are trying to say.

Karen A. Soukiasian is the owner of Good Dog! — Dog Training in St. Augustine, Florida. You can follow Karen on Facebook.

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