If your dog licks you a lot then you’ll know what it’s like to be slobbered on the face, hands and around the mouth, whether you’re stroking them, feeding them or being greeted as you step through the door. Being licked by your dog can be a sign of affection, but it can have a number of other meanings too. So why do dogs lick and what can you do if it ever becomes a problem?
Why does my dog lick me so much?
Dogs have an instinct to lick
Why do dogs lick?
They’re showing affection
They’re showing empathy
To get attention
We taste good
How good is a dog’s sense of taste?
They’re hungry
When is licking a problem?
They’re anxious
OCD
Although rare, some dogs can develop a type of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This can be linked to long-term stress or anxiety and can manifest as them constantly licking themselves, objects or other people. This can lead to sores on their tongues or bald patches in their fur. If you think your dog might be affected then they may be able to stop this behaviour if you interrupt them with an invitation to do something else – for example go for a walk, play in the garden or do some training. The behaviour should always be treated with kindness. It may be difficult to stop your dog, so always speak to your vet or a behaviourist if you’re concerned about your dog’s health or behaviour.
What can I do about problem licking?
- Move away – Instead of giving either positive or negative attention, try moving the part of your body that’s being licked away from your dog. Don’t say anything or make eye contact, but remain neutral. If this doesn’t work, try moving away from your dog, or leave the room entirely. Over time this should give them the message that it’s not something you enjoy
- Distract them – Try giving them something else to do that stops them licking, such as a chew toy or a food puzzle
- Training – Try training them to sit, or teach them to do something that redirects their licking and is rewarded by your affection and attention, such as giving you their paw or rolling over
- Exercise – Keep your dog stimulated and give them plenty of exercise to help reduce any stress or burn up any excess energy that might be directed towards licking you
- Stay clean – If licking is a particular problem after you’ve been exercising, take a shower
- Positive attention – Give your dog lots of praise and attention when they’re doing what you want them to, rather than giving them negative attention when they’re not
- Be consistent – Make sure you’re consistent. If you give your dog mixed messages then it will be confusing to them. Be consistent and clear about what you want them to do and what you don’t
If you find that your dog is licking you obsessively, especially if it’s a new behaviour, or if it becomes a problem and makes you feel uncomfortable, always speak to a behaviourist or your vet for advice.
Should I let my dog lick my face?
Whether you should let your dog lick your face or not is an entirely personal decision, but be aware that your dog’s mouth is full of natural bacteria and their saliva may contain parasites. The chances of you becoming unwell from being licked on the face are probably very small, but you’ve seen your dog licking or eating things you wouldn’t normally, which begs the question, what are they putting in their mouths that you haven’t seen? If you do let your dog lick your face, make sure you wash it with soap and water afterwards to minimise any unpleasant contamination.