The Meaning of Licks

There’s More to Lickies from your Dog!

Have you ever wondered why your dog licks you? You may think it’s because they like the taste of salt or the residue of food lingering on you or that it is a sign of affection. However, there is a lot more going on than we realise. Licking is part of a complex communication that is going on between you and your best friend. 

When they were puppies, dogs would lick their mums so that they would regurgitate food and feed them. So licking is an expression of dependence which leads to a reward, which leads to your doggy feeling happy and content. As a growing dog this licking behaviour releases endorphins. For those of us who don’t know what they are, think of them as a chemical in the brain that produces feelings of happiness. Endorphins are also known as the love chemical. So when your dog licks you, it could be argued that they are showing and feeling love towards you. The beauty of this is that this also works in you as well! So it’s a win win situation and a marvellous way of creating a stronger bond between you both.

If your furry friend is wanting a bit more attention from you, licking also acts as a way of getting a reaction from you whether it’s an ‘oooo not in the mouth!’, ‘ah who’s a good boy’  or ‘Get off my face!’ (personal experience here). The instant they get that reaction you have one happy dog. But be warned! Any reaction be it happy, soppy or disgusted will be seen as a reward and therefore interpreted as something good to be used again at any opportunity!

Another less well known reason for a dog licking you is to tell you politely that your dog needs some space. This is often when your dog may be feeling a little stressed or unwell. A quick lick while your dog has its tail between its legs with other signs of upset is your dogs way of saying ‘fanx ma/pa but i just need some space please. Love you woof woof’. 

When your dog licks you they are gathering a lot of information about you. Not only are they tasting you they are able to analyze the chemicals in your sweat, your pheromones and things you have touched. When licking you they are able to detect changes in your sweat when you are stressed or anxious and may use licking as a way to soothe you. Equally, your dog could lick you as a way of calming themselves down as well. 

Your dog can also lick areas on your body that are wounded, infected or diseased. This can also include cancerous parts of your body! However, a dogs tongue isn’t the most hygienic thing in the world and it is definitely best to stop your dog licking wounded or infectious areas. However, if your dog suddenly starts obsessively licking a particular area of your body that has no surface signs of damage it may well be worth a trip to the GP, just in case. 

As you can see, there is a lot going on when your dog licks you, all of which is focused on creating that bond with you. 

So dear reader I have only one question for you…. Would you dare to lick your dog back!!!!? If I’m honest here, stroking would probably be the best thing!