Most dog owners know the feeling you sit down for a cuddle and suddenly your dog is licking your hands, face, or even your feet.
While it can feel a bit funny (and sometimes messy), licking is completely normal behaviour for dogs.
Affection and Bonding
One of the most common reasons dogs lick is simple they love you.
Licking releases calming hormones in dogs and is a way they bond with their family. Puppies lick their mothers and littermates, and that behaviour often continues into adulthood.
For many dogs, licking is their way of saying:
“I feel safe with you.”
Attention-Seeking
Dogs quickly learn what gets a reaction. If licking makes you laugh, talk, or pet them, they’ll often repeat it.
Even telling a dog to stop can feel like attention to them.
Taste and Smell
Dogs explore the world with their noses and mouths.
Your skin can taste interesting to dogs because of:
- Salt from sweat
- Food smells
- Lotions or soap
To them, you’re basically walking flavour.
Comfort and Self-Soothing
Licking can help dogs relax. Some dogs lick when:
- They’re tired
- They’re settling down
- They’re feeling slightly anxious
It’s similar to how humans fidget or twirl their hair.
When Licking Might Be a Problem
Occasional licking is normal, but excessive licking can sometimes signal:
- Stress or anxiety
- Boredom
- Skin irritation
- Compulsive behaviour
❤️ Final Thoughts
Most of the time, licking is simply a sign of affection, comfort, or curiosity. It’s one of the many ways dogs communicate with us even if it sometimes means getting a surprise lick on the face.
And let’s be honest… most of us secretly don’t mind too much.
