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There’s no doubt that dogs are affectionate creatures. And they have numerous ways of showing it. One of these ways is by licking their owners. You may enjoy it when your furry friend comes up and gives you a big ol’ pooch smooch. But why do dogs lick you? In a poll* of dog owners, IAMS™ found a large majority (75%) believe dogs lick people to offer signs of friendliness. That’s definitely a correct assumption. Let’s dive a bit deeper for a better understanding.
Licking has been a social behavior among dogs since the days of the great-great-great granddaddy wolf. 'It’s a standard canine greeting to lick others around the face,” agrees James Serpell, B.S., Ph.D., Professor of Humane Ethics & Animal Welfare at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. “Junior members of the pack will run around and lick the mouths of more senior members.” But is that all that there is to dog licking behavior? Or are there more reasons why dogs lick people? Let’s find out!
Here are a few reasons that can explain why dogs like to lick.
For dogs, licking is equivalent to kissing or showing affection. You may have noticed female dogs licking their puppies which is a behavior that is intended to show affection. And your dog considers you part of their pack, so they show you affection the same way their kind does - by licking.
Dogs are oral creatures and gather a lot of information about their surroundings through taste and smell. Maybe you’re salty after a sweaty run. Maybe you’ve got barbecue sauce on your face. “Dogs can smell a lot better than we can,” says Dr. Jo Gale, BVetMed CertLAS MRCVS, Senior Manager, Global Science Advocacy at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, “so they find a lot more things interesting to lick than we can.” This is despite the fact that dogs only have about 1,700 taste buds compared to around 9,000 in humans.
Have you been too busy with work lately? Or has anything kept you inattentive toward your pooch? If so, it’s probably one of the reasons why your dog is licking you. It is also possible that your dog just got too bored and wants you to play with them, which is why they’re suddenly licking you.
That’s true. Much like humans, dogs can also suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder, which can be concerning. It is often triggered due to stress and anxiety and makes the dogs suddenly begin licking. You will need to visit your vet if you suspect this to be the case.
Unlike humans, no other animals have knowledge about or access to proper healthcare. So, when they get injured, their first instinct is to lick their wounds. This helps them numb the pain to a certain extent, and also clean the wound. Thus, when your dog sees a wound on you, their natural instincts kick in and they try to help you by licking the wound, thinking it will clean the wound and lower the pain.
In fact, in ancient Greece, dogs at the shrine of Asclepius were trained to lick patients. In the Middle Ages, Saint Roch was said to have been cured of a plague of sores through his dog’s licking. The French even have a saying, “langue de chien, langue de médecin,” which translates to, “a dog’s tongue, a doctor’s tongue.”
Don’t cancel your health insurance just yet. While a dog’s saliva does have some possible bactericidal properties against some types of bacteria, it can put you at risk of exposure to others. Too much licking can also reopen the wound and cause further infection. With modern medicine, you’re much better off hitting the first-aid kit. And that myth about dogs’ mouths being cleaner than humans’? Not true — both contain over 600 types of bacteria.
While an occasional canine kiss is “aww”-inducing, some dogs can overdo it to the point of annoyance. When this happens, the best thing to do is “completely ignore it and give no attention,” suggests Dr. Jo Gale. “When they stop, provide them with attention.” This acts as a form of positive reinforcement. Over time your dog will learn to scale back on the smooches. Another thing you can try is training them to cut back on the licking. Remember to use positive reinforcement in this case too - reward them with treats or toys when they display good behavior.
Yes, but not always. For dogs, licking is also a way to explore and understand the world and the beings around them. Sometimes it can also be an indication of their OCD.
Your dog may be licking you because of either of these reasons - to show affection, to seek your attention, because they like how you taste, or because they are feeling stressed or anxious.
If a dog keeps licking constantly, it may be because they are feeling anxious or stressed. Sometimes these feelings also trigger OCD in dogs, which can make them lick obsessively. They may also do it when they are bored and want your attention.
Sometimes, dogs choose to show dominance via licking. They may do this with either other dogs of the pack or with humans. Dog licking may indicate dominance especially when the licks are uninvited, and the dog begins showing dominant behavior. This can include not obeying commands and acting in a demanding way.
A dog’s licking may indicate several things. They are either showing affection or are just bored and need your attention. They may also lick you if they think you taste good or interesting.
One essential component often overlooked in dogs’ diets is Vitamin C, a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in their overall well-being. Understanding the benefits and proper dosage of Vitamin C for dogs can significantly contribute to their immune system, joint health, and overall vitality. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of incorporating Vitamin C into your canine companion's diet and how it can positively impact its long-term health and happiness.
Vitamin C, commonly known as ascorbic acid, is a vital nutrient that acts as the body's all-round defender and repair agent. This water-soluble superhero does wonders, promoting healthy bones, aiding in wound healing, and giving the immune system the strength, it needs to ward off pesky infections. Imagine it as the secret ingredient in the recipe for a robust and thriving body. It is abundantly present in a variety of tasty treats like juicy oranges, tangy strawberries, and vibrant bell peppers, making it a delicious and essential part of a well-balanced diet.
While our furry friends have the ability to produce their own vitamin C, there are times when they could use a little of this nutrient. Whether they are feeling a bit under the weather, entering their golden years, or experiencing significant life changes, a dash of vitamin C can provide the boost they need.
But when on the journey of learning if vitamin C is good for dogs, remember that like any good thing, too much can sometimes lead to an upset tummy or unwanted interactions with their medications. So, before you start loading up their bowls with citrus delights, it is always wise to have a chat with your trusted vet. With the right guidance, vitamin C can be the ultimate sidekick in your dog's quest for a vibrant and happy life.
Vitamin C is not just for humans; it can work wonders for our canine companions too. Vitamin C benefits for dogs range from bolstering their immune system to aiding in injury recovery. This superhero nutrient has a range of benefits that can significantly improve a dog's overall well-being in the following ways:
Research into the effects of vitamin C supplementation i9n canines suggests potential benefits worth considering:
However, while the scientific data presents promising insights, the application of vitamin C in canine diets should be approached with caution. Individual variations in metabolism and health conditions may influence the efficacy and tolerability of vitamin C supplementation in dogs. Consulting a veterinary professional to determine appropriate dosages and the suitability of supplementation based on a dog's specific health needs remains imperative for a safe and effective approach to integrating vitamin C into their regimen.
When it comes to ensuring your dog's optimal vitamin C intake, understanding the various supplement forms and appropriate dosages is crucial for their overall well-being. Here is a list of some:
Each of these supplement forms offers distinct benefits and flexibility, allowing pet parents to choose the most suitable option based on their dog's preferences and specific dietary requirements. It is important to consult a veterinarian to determine the most appropriate form and dosage for a dog's individual health and wellness needs.
Vitamin C holds a vital position in the realm of canine health, serving as a cornerstone for a well-functioning immune system and efficient tissue mending. Its multifaceted role in bolstering the body's defense mechanisms and fostering speedy recovery is essential in promoting a dynamic and thriving life for our canine companions. By contributing to the maintenance of robust connective tissues and actively participating in the repair of wounds, vitamin C proves indispensable in ensuring the sustained well-being and vitality of our beloved furry friends, underscoring the importance of its incorporation into their daily regimen.
As a key player in bolstering the immune system, promoting collagen synthesis, and providing essential antioxidant benefits, vitamin C plays a vital role in maintaining a dog's overall resilience. However, it is crucial to approach its supplementation with caution, consulting a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and form suitable for your dog's specific needs. With mindful consideration and proper guidance, integrating vitamin C into your dog's diet can be a proactive step in fostering their long-term health and happiness. Regular monitoring and adjustments, alongside a balanced diet and ample exercise, contribute to a holistic approach in ensuring your beloved canine companion leads a vibrant and fulfilling life.
