All dogs to a greater or lesser extent They like to lick as a form of communication. This behavior is very recurrent and can have multiple meaningss, a fact that we will analyze to find out the reasons. If you like having pets, cats also have their way of communicating and approaching their owners with affection by licking them, but in a much less frequent proportion.
There is no doubt that a dog When he licks you a lot it's because feels great affection towards that person. He feels joy and wants to show it, since dogs are social animals that use licking as a way of communicating.
Why does my dog lick me?
You've probably come here because of their behavior, Although it is common, it is intriguing and can lead us to know the multiple meanings. We must summarize that the fact that dogs lick us means affection, respect and submission.
Licking as an expression of affection
One of the most common reasons It is the affection that the dog has towards its owner or to the person they know as a trusted person. They use licking as a source of communication and strengthen this bond. In fact, when they are puppies they already express this act and their caregivers respond with behaviors of gratitude and rewards.
This act is already recorded in the puppy's brain and will continue to do so into adulthood. In fact, their own mothers already use this act to clean and calm them. This behavior becomes generalized throughout the dog's years and it can be observed how, not only does he lick the face of his caregivers, but hands and feet.
It is a sign of attention learned since they are small, Because if they lick they get the attention of their owners. They also receive words, emotions, laughter or caresses, something positive for them and that reinforces this act so that it continues to be implemented.
Dogs lick as a means of canine communication
Dogs cannot express themselves in any other way, they cannot speak and They use their language as body movements, barking, whining and licking. When it comes to licking, they are creating a communication, like a greeting, a request, a sign of affection or showing submission.
What happens when a dog licks a lot? What can be done?
When a dog licks excessively it is synonymous with restlessness and excitement. If your dog is very nervous, he will probably calm his anxiety with excessive licking. If he has other unusual behaviors such as nibbling on certain parts of the body, For example, chasing and biting its tail could cause injuries to its body. In this case, professional advice and help should be sought.
The dog licks to explore the environment and the person
The most sensory part of dogs is the tongue and therefore, they use it as key element for exploring the environment. When a person comes in with some cream on, has handled some food or has used some perfume, the dog is more likely to approach and lick the person's skin.
As a response to maintaining the care of an animal or person
As we have already mentioned, mothers They lick their puppies to care for them and keep them clean.Puppies also lick their mothers to stimulate milk production. In this way we have seen how dogs do it towards their caregivers to show that care and how sample of union.
When can a dog be considered a health problem?
Licking is normal behavior, but you should always be on the lookout for a health problem. Dogs may be licking themselves in areas that are where there is a dermatological problem, because he is in pain, has a wound or has digestive problems.
Do you have health problems for people?
Yes, some diseases can be transmitted. through licking, but such circumstances are unlikely if they are healthy people. There are certain diseases that can be transmitted, such as some aggressive bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi.
In order to minimize the risks, the dog needs to be vaccinated and have all the necessary veterinary checks. It is important to maintain the Clean dog paws because they are an important source of contamination, especially if they lick themselves and then lick people. You have to wash your hands frequently and the parts licked frequently. And it is also important to prevent the dog from suck the open wounds on our skin.
How do I stop my dog from licking me?
Licking is a completely normal act and if you need to stop your dog from licking you too much you can use some strategies. It is important observe when and where said event occurs, to identify the trigger and cancel that action.
- Is better act when the dogs are still puppies. When your dog is going to lick you, it is best to offer other alternatives that can distract him, such as toys, treats or any object that will entertain him.
- Don't facilitate such behavior. When you see that it is going to happen, try to avoid it and make him aware that he should not do it. Always respond with a positive attitude, do not get angry.
- Create a healthy routine for your dog, such as activities where you can walk, run, or do joint training. The idea is to manage this type of enjoyment so that it does not involve close physical contact.
You have to try understand and appreciate the gesture that dogs transmit with their licking. For them it is a sign of affection and trust towards people. You have to know analyze why he licks and when, to fit in with the act. If he licks you after you've eaten or cooked, he's probably doing it to test flavors.
If he does it when you get home, it's because he's greeting you. When he does it intensely, it's probably because he's going through a stressful moment and is looking for comfort. Generally, this behavior should always be avoided. fit it as a great show of love and connection with us, it is unlikely that you will have to be restricted for any reasons, unless it is for a very special health issue.