Whether you love it or find it a bit slobbery, many dogs are enthusiastic lickers. For a lot of dogs, hands and faces are the prime targets for their affectionate and sometimes curious licks. But why do our dogs exhibit this behavior? Let’s dive into the reasons dogs lick your hands and what it really means.
Why Do Dogs Lick Your Hands?
As Dogs cannot speak like us humans, they have their own unique way of communicating. Since they can’t use words, they rely on their senses of touch, smell, and taste to express themselves. When your dog licks your hand, it’s their way of saying hello. Often, they’ll give you a sniff first, using their keen sense of smell to gather information about you before they start licking.
If you’ve been handling food or interacting with another dog, your dog will certainly notice. Their keen sense of smell allows them to detect these subtle changes. If your dog detects the scent of other dogs on you, they might become a little upset or jealous. It’s their way of expressing their feelings about other animals in their territory.
Moreover, some dogs are attracted to the scent of makeup, lotions, or lip gloss. While these products are generally safe for human skin, it’s best to avoid letting your dog lick anything that could potentially make them sick, as these are not edible for dogs.
Four Reasons Dogs Lick
1. Grooming:
Just like mother dogs lick their puppies to keep them clean, this grooming behavior often continues throughout a dog’s life. Dogs will lick themselves or their rear ends after using the bathroom. Ideally, your dog would choose to lick your face rather than their rear end!
However, excessive licking can sometimes signal health issues. For instance, if your dog’s paws are itching due to an allergy, licking can provide temporary relief. If your dog can’t stop licking their rear, it might indicate irritation or a need for their anal glands to be expressed. If you notice excessive licking, it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out any health problems.
2. Communication:
Licking is a powerful form of communication for dogs. While affectionate licking is usually calm and gentle, dogs might lick more frantically when they are excited, nervous, or anxious. If your dog is overly enthusiastic when you come home after a long day, this licking can actually trigger the release of endorphins, which makes your dog even more excited.
Observe your dog’s body language during these moments. If you see a wagging tail accompanying the licking, it usually means your dog is extremely happy or excited. On the other hand, if your dog shows signs of distress, like crying or a tucked tail, it might be a sign that they are feeling stressed and need some comfort.
3. Compulsion:
For some dogs with compulsive tendencies, licking can become an obsessive behavior. This isn’t just about licking your hands; it might involve licking a spot on their own body, a wall, a piece of furniture, or even their empty food dish. If you notice this type of compulsive behavior, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues.
If the vet finds no medical cause, a behaviorist or trainer may help address and manage these compulsive tendencies. Understanding the root cause and providing appropriate training can help in modifying the behavior.
4. Affection:
One of the most common reasons dogs lick your hands and face is simply because they love you. Licking is often a sign of affection. It feels good to your dog as it releases endorphins, which provide a sense of pleasure. Some experts suggest that licking is also a sign of submission, indicating that your dog views you as the head of the household or pack.
When dogs lick the mouth of a person or another dog’s muzzle, it’s usually an act of respect or a request for food. This instinctual behavior dates back to their early evolution when puppies relied on their mothers to share some of the food she had in her mouth.
5. Skin Issues or Allergies:
If your dog is licking their skin obsessively, it could be a sign of skin issues or allergies. Persistent licking and itching might suggest a need for medical attention. It’s best to consult with a vet to determine the cause and find a solution.
Treatment might involve topical treatments, dietary changes, or medications. Switching to a diet with omega-3 fatty acids, like Ollie’s, can help alleviate and prevent common skin issues. Once the medical issues are managed, you can then address any remaining compulsive behavior.
Should You Encourage Your Dog to Lick Your Hands?
If you don’t mind a little slobber, it’s perfectly fine to let your dog lick your hands. This behavior is a natural form of communication for dogs. Punishing your dog for licking is similar to rejecting a hug or kiss from a loved one. It’s important to understand that licking is an essential method of communication for dogs, and discouraging it might hinder their way of interacting with you.
However, not everyone enjoys being constantly covered in slobber. If you prefer to prevent licking, you can train your dog to perform alternative behaviors.
What to Do If You Need Your Dog to Stop Licking?
If you want to keep your dog from licking you or your guests, training them to perform different actions can be effective. Commands like “off” or teaching alternative greetings such as a “touch” (where the dog taps their nose to your hand) can be helpful. Commands like “high five,” “shake,” or “paw” can also serve as distractions.
There are situations where you may not want your dog to lick, such as when visiting therapy patients in hospitals. While doggie kisses are generally safe for healthy individuals, saliva does contain bacteria that can be risky for those with compromised immune systems or those recovering from surgery.
Consistency is crucial in training. If you decide to prevent licking, ensure you apply the rule consistently. Inconsistent enforcement can confuse your dog and make it harder to manage their behavior effectively.
Final Words
Understanding why dogs lick can help you better interpret and manage this behavior. Whether it’s a sign of affection, a communication tool, or a compulsive habit, recognizing the underlying reasons can help you respond appropriately.
So next time your dog licks your hand, remember: it’s their way of showing love, gathering information, or simply trying to get a taste of what’s been on your hands. If you enjoy the affection, embrace it. If you prefer less slobber, a bit of training can go a long way. Whatever your preference, knowing the reasons behind the behavior can make those doggy kisses a little more meaningful.
FAQ: What Does It Mean When a Dog Licks Your Hand?
Q: Why does my dog lick my hand?
A: Dogs lick hands to show affection and trust.
Q: Is hand licking a sign of submission?
A: Yes, it can be a sign of submission and respect.
Q: Can hand licking be a sign of hunger?
A: Sometimes, dogs lick hands when they are hungry or want food.
Q: Should I be concerned if my dog licks my hand a lot?
A: Frequent licking is usually normal, but if it’s excessive, consult a vet.
Q: Can hand licking be a sign of anxiety?
A: Yes, licking can also be a way for dogs to comfort themselves when anxious.
Q: How can I stop my dog from licking my hand?
A: Redirect their attention with toys or commands to reduce licking.
Q: Is hand licking a way for dogs to taste us?
A: Dogs might lick hands to explore and taste, especially if we have food on them.
