Why do dogs…?

Dogs have a variety of behaviors that fascinate and sometimes puzzle their human companions. Among these, one of the most common and noticeable behaviors is licking. Dogs lick themselves, other dogs, and their human family members. But what drives this behavior? Is it merely a sign of affection or is there more to it? In this blog post, we delve into the reasons behind why dogs lick and what it means.

1. Communication and Affection

One of the primary reasons dogs lick is as a form of communication and to show affection. From birth, puppies are licked by their mothers to clean them and stimulate their bodily functions. This initial interaction introduces licking as a comforting behavior. As dogs grow, they continue to use licking as a way to express their love and affection towards their owners and other dogs. A lick can be a dog’s way of saying, “I care about you” or “I’m happy to see you.”

2. Taste and Exploration

Dogs experience the world largely through their sense of smell and taste. Their tongues are essential tools in exploring their environments. Dogs often lick to taste something that smells interesting. This could be your skin, which carries the taste of salt from your sweat, or new objects they encounter in their environment. For dogs, licking is a way to gather information about what’s around them.

3. Submission and Respect

Licking behavior in dogs can also stem from instinctual pack behavior related to submission and respect. In the wild, lower-ranking wolves and wild dogs show submission to the alpha pair by licking them around the mouth. Domestic dogs may lick humans or other dogs as a submissive gesture, signaling that they recognize the other’s authority.

4. Self-Grooming

Dogs lick themselves as part of their grooming process. This behavior helps them clean hard-to-reach areas and remove dirt and parasites from their fur. Licking also spreads natural oils produced by their skin, which keeps their coat healthy and shiny.

5. Healing

Dogs instinctively lick their wounds. Saliva contains enzymes that help clean the area and can promote healing. However, excessive licking of wounds can cause issues, such as infections or the delay of healing, so it’s important to monitor this behavior and consult with a veterinarian if necessary.

6. Anxiety or Boredom

Sometimes, licking can be a sign of anxiety or boredom in dogs. Repetitive licking of objects, other animals, or themselves can be a soothing behavior that helps manage stress. If a dog is licking excessively, it might be a signal that they need more mental stimulation or are experiencing anxiety that needs to be addressed.

Licking is a multifaceted behavior in dogs with various underlying meanings, from showing affection and respect to self-grooming and healing. Understanding the reasons behind why dogs lick can help us better communicate with our canine companions and ensure their well-being. If your dog exhibits excessive licking, especially if it seems to be compulsive or associated with discomfort, consulting a veterinarian is recommended.