Licking is a common behavior in dogs. They like to lick the hands, feet, and faces of any humans they encounter, but especially those of their masters. Dogs use licking to communicate. There are several reasons for this behavior. For example, they may want to express affection or submission. Therefore, it is important to find out what message your dog is trying to convey when he licks you.
Dog licking itself – Source: spm
Dogs use their tongue to lick as a means of communication
Licking is as natural to a dog as breathing. Even as pups, they experience their mother’s tongue cleaning and massaging their tummy after eating. This behavior creates bonds that the puppies will imitate throughout their lives. When they grow up, this behavior does not fade away. The dog perceives the world through the senses: sight, hearing, smell and touch. The use of the tongue is a form of canine body language. When a dog licks his lips, it doesn’t always mean he’s hungry. A submissive posture combined with sweeping the mouth with the tongue is actually a calming posture.
Dog licking his master – Source: spm
Why do dogs lick their masters?
When your dog licks your face, it is often an expression of his love for you. The animal does not behave this way with everyone it encounters. This means of communication is reserved only for those closest to you. It is a test of attachment and deep bond.
Also read: Your dog really loves you if he shows you these 4 signs
When we get home, our dog usually jumps on us and tries to lick us. Why ? This is explained by the primary actions that are still latent in the pet. When the mother wolf returns from hunting, the pups lick her muzzle. Dogs use her tongue to learn more about us, like where we’ve been.
Also, dogs lick each other too. When you hear your dog licking itself in the evening or in the morning, it means that he has just started to go to the bathroom. Licking their fur and paws is perfectly normal behavior, as long as it’s not accompanied by scratching and biting.
Also read: Why do dogs bark when they see a car?
Each dog is unique and has its own personality. However, all dogs express their happiness or unhappiness through common bodily signals. Signs of a happy dog include a floppy open mouth, floppy ears, and a wagging tail. A dog that is feeling uncomfortable or stressed will have signs such as a closed or tense mouth, floppy ears, and a straight, horizontal tail. It’s important to monitor your dog’s body signals to tell if he’s happy or not, although factors such as age, breed, and health can influence these signals. Generally, a happy dog does not destroy its environment and is relaxed in its familiar environment.
Also read: Here’s Why Dogs Bark At Some People And Not Others
