Does your dog lick a lot? If so, you know what it’s like to have slobber on your face, hands, around your mouth. They may lick while you are petting them or feeding them. You may be greeted with lots of licking when you step through the door.

Many times, dogs lick because we are showing affection. But it can have a lot of other meanings too. Let’s look at why dogs lick so much and what you can do if it becomes a problem.

Why Your Dog Licks You So Much

For dogs, licking is natural and instinctive behavior.  It’s how we groom, bond, and express ourselves. If your dog is licking you, they may be telling you that they love you, want your attention, or you just taste good to them. But they may also be showing you empathy or trying to soothe themselves because they are stressed.

In the wild, when the mother returns from a hunt, pups will like their mom’s lips. This is how they tell her they are hungry. This instinct is hardwired into domestic dog’s behaviors, too. Your dog may lick you to let you know you are part of the pack, or basically you’re family to them.

Excessive licking can be a sign that your dog is uncomfortable, in pain, or anxious. It’s always best to talk to your vet if you are concerned about it, especially if your dog just started licking you more suddenly.

When is Licking a Problem?

Most of the time, licking is how dogs express themselves and it’s a normal part of being a dog. Dogs are all different. Some may lick very little and others lick a lot naturally. But if your dog isn’t usually much of a licker and they suddenly start licking you a lot, it may be a sign that there is something wrong.

Dogs may start licking more if their anxiety increases or they have a new health issue like arthritis, allergies, or an injury. It’s usually best to check with your vet if you suspect something is going on with your canine family member.

Can I do Anything About My Dog Licking Me?

It is important to remember that licking in general is a natural behavior for us dogs. It’s one way we can express ourselves. It’s unrealistic to expect your dog to stop licking altogether. It’s as sure as the fact that you will continue to pet him. If your dog is a licker, you’ll want to try to understand why they are licking you. This can help them stop or at least lick less. If your dog’s licking is getting to be too much, here are some helpful tips.

Move Away from Your Dog

Don’t try to give your licking dog attention, positive or negative. Just move the part of your body that your dog is licking. Don’t say anything. Don’t make eye contact. Just gently move your body part away from their mouth. If this doesn’t work, try moving totally away from your dog. You may need to leave the room completely. Over time, this can gently give your pup the message that it’s not something you enjoy.

Distract Your Licking Dog

Give your pup something else to do. It may simply be that they are bored. Offer them a chew toy or a food puzzle. This gives them something constructive to do and can help keep them from being bored. If your dog likes a bath, giving them a bath can help them feel better and relax, especially when you dry them off afterwards with a soft, absorbent Pawer Pet Towel.

Try Some Training

Try training your dog to sit or teach them to do something new. It doesn’t have to be anything big, just enough to distract them from licking. It also rewards them with your affection and attention. Try training them to roll over or to give you a paw.

Get Them Moving

Regular exercise can help reduce your dog’s stress levels and burn up extra energy. When they are stimulated, they will rest better and it may help direct them away from licking you.

Try Positive Reinforcement

Give your pup a lot of attention and praise when they are doing things you want them to. This can work a lot better than giving them negative attention when they are not.

About the Author: Hazel

Hazel is the head engineer at Pawer Lab. He develops and tests the latest pup-focused inventions for Pawer Lab. He is passionate about enjoying the small things in life. The border collie’s hobbies include riding in the car, stalking the mailman, and fetching tennis balls.