Why do dogs lick you? Licking can be a sign of affection, as well as a feeling of security and comfort. An instinctive canine behaviour, dogs use licks to communicate with people, their owners and other animals.
Are you wondering why your dog licks you? We speak to the experts to find out what it really means...
What does it really mean when a dog licks you?
Dogs will often lick people as a way to greet them, show affection or simply get their attention. When puppies are growing up, their mothers will spend a lot of time licking them to show them love. Similarly, grown-up dogs will lick their human owners to display affection and love.
Charlotte Huggins, Canine Behaviour Officer at the Dogs Trust, tells Country Living: "Dogs lick people for a variety of reasons, they may be seeking attention, licking as a greeting, or investigating different scents. If licking receives a positive response and is reinforced, dogs may repeat this behaviour in the future."
Why do dogs lick their owners?
When dogs feel comfortable with their owners, they will begin to lick them as a form of greeting. In most cases, licking will be for a good reason, including affection, information gathering or habit.
While it's a sign of normal affection, Charlotte explains the importance of not letting dogs lick your face.
"Whilst some may find licking cute, it is important to remember that dogs carry bacteria and potentially also parasites in their mouth, some of which may be harmful to humans," she tells us. "So, avoid letting them lick your face and always wash your skin and hands afterwards."
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Should you let your dog lick you?
Whether you should let your dog lick you is an entirely personal decision, but be aware that your dog's mouth is full of natural bacteria. However, the experts advise against letting your dog lick you — especially your face.
Are dog licks really kisses?
A dog who licks you is showing you that they love you, so it's no surprise many people call them "dog kisses". It's a natural action for dogs — a way for them to express how they feel about you.
Charlotte adds: "It's important that you don't force a dog to give you 'kisses or cuddles'. Keep an eye on your dog's body language to ensure they are comfortable and relaxed during any interaction, and if in doubt, give them space. Remember to actively watch children around dogs, and to not let them get too close to your dog's face. Children and dogs should never be left alone together."
Do dogs like when we kiss them?
Most dogs love kisses from their owners, with many associating it with love and attention. Some signs that they are enjoying it include wagging their tails, looking alert and happy, and licking you back.
24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
KONG Tires Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding
Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot. Plus, we love that you can pick this up at the supermarket as you do your weekly food shop or even have it delivered with your groceries.
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
If your pup is a fiend for peanut butter, you might want to introduce this peanut butter flavour chew toy into their playtime routine. The T-shape allows them to grip it easily with their paws while the raised nubs on it can help keep their teeth clean.
If they prefer the taste of bacon, why not try this double-bend bone toy. It's available in a range of sizes to ensure that your dog doesn't miss out on this tasty treat.
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
This bright fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and a practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
Made from three strands of heavy duty tightly woven rope, this traditional rope toy is perfect for medium or larger breeds and can withstand some serious pulling and tugging.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs. And it also has a tasty flavour to it too.
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's currently on sale for less than £3.50.
Another great option if your dog loves to play fetch, this durable fetch stick toy not only makes it easier for them to spot where their stick has landed when you're out on a walk or a trip to the park. But it also works for all dogs of all sizes.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
Another great frisbee option is this XL one. It might even be easier for your four legged friend to grip and it's also currently on sale.
Made by Arm & Hammer, this gorilla-shaped toy is infused with baking soda to safely help with bad breath. Add in the fact that it is extremely durable and has a built-in treats dispenser and we can see why so many shoppers have given it five-star reviews.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
