Your dog may be licking you to express their affection, but there are several other factors that may be in play if you’ve ever wondered why they seem so eager to do so.
Greeting you when you get home
Your dog’s excitement upon seeing you walk through the door is one straightforward explanation.
“Essentially, it is their way of greeting you … like they are saying Hello!,” says Lara Sypniewski, DVM, a professor of small animal medicine at Oklahoma State University.
It may also be an evolutionary behavior — researchers have observed that some wild dog species will lick other members of the pack as a welcome when they return home.
Why Do Dogs Lick Faces?
When puppies, dogs’ mothers lick them to groom them, encourage urination, and even help them digest food. A pup is familiar with the soothing and comforting experience of being groomed by mom before it even opens its eyes. Young puppies will groom each other, too.
They’re showing affection
Licking can be a way for dogs to bond with family members. For example, mother dogs will often lick their puppies to groom them or offer comfort.
Similarly, your dog may lick you to groom you and to convey closeness.
According to Sypniewski, “licking is a typical juvenile behavior in puppies, and this behavior appears to be common with humans, especially when humans encourage the interaction.”
FAQ
Does a dog licking your face mean they love you?
Licking your face is a genuine sign of affection because dogs lick each other’s faces for grooming, affection, and submissive communication.
Do dogs licks actually mean kisses?
“Generally speaking, a dog will lick you as a sign of affection.” The dog may be showing signs of stress if it licks someone who is agitated or excited. They are attempting to relax by licking that person because they are aware that it is a kind gesture.
Why does my dog gently lick my face?
It serves as a means of self-expression, bonding, and grooming for them. Your dog may lick you to express their love for you, to get your attention, to help them relax when they’re stressed, to demonstrate empathy, or simply because they like the way you taste!
Should I let my dog lick my face?
To reduce the risk of infections, experts advise against letting pets lick their owners’ mouths, noses, or eyes. The conclusion is to allow your pet to lick you, but only after washing your hands and face, and not near your mouth or nose.