Why do dogs lick you? Licking can be a sign of affection, as well as a feeling of security and comfort. An instinctive canine behaviour, dogs use licks to communicate with people, their owners and other animals.
Are you wondering why your dog licks you? We speak to the experts to find out what it really means...
What does it really mean when a dog licks you?
Dogs will often lick people as a way to greet them, show affection or simply get their attention. When puppies are growing up, their mothers will spend a lot of time licking them to show them love. In a similar way, grown-up dogs will lick their human owners to display affection and love.
Charlotte Huggins, Canine Behaviour Officer at the Dogs Trust, tells Country Living: "Dogs lick people for a variety of reasons, they may be seeking attention, licking as a greeting, or investigating different scents. If licking receives a positive response and is reinforced, dogs may repeat this behaviour in the future."
Why do dogs lick their owners?
When dogs feel comfortable with their owners, they will begin to lick them as a form of greeting. In most cases, licking will be for a good reason, including affection, information gathering or habit.
While it's a sign of normal affection, Charlotte explains the importance of not letting dogs lick your face.
"Whilst some may find licking cute, it is important to remember that dogs carry bacteria and potentially also parasites in their mouth, some of which may be harmful to humans," she tells us. "So, avoid letting them lick your face and always wash your skin and hands afterwards."
Should you let your dog lick you?
Whether you should let your dog lick you is an entirely personal decision, but be aware that your dog's mouth is full of natural bacteria. However, the experts advise against letting your dog lick you — especially your face.
Are dog licks really kisses?
A dog who licks you is showing you that they love you, so it's no surprise many people call them "dog kisses". It's a natural action for dogs — a way for them to express how they feel about you.
Charlotte adds: "It's important that you don't force a dog to give you 'kisses or cuddles'. Keep an eye on your dog's body language to ensure they are comfortable and relaxed during any interaction, and if in doubt, give them space. Remember to actively watch children around dogs, and to not let them get too close to your dog's face. Children and dogs should never be left alone together."
Do dogs like when we kiss them?
Most dogs love kisses from their owners, with many associating it with love and attention. Some signs that they are enjoying it include wagging their tails, looking alert and happy, and licking you back.
24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
Great For Chewing — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG - Tires - Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers - For Medium/Large Dogs
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding
Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Rope Ring Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Beco Pets Hemp Rope Jungle Ring Tough Dog Toy
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
Tough Material — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Great For Swimmers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil.
Best For Snack Time — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Pet-Fun Medium Mango - Safe Fun Durable Rubber Dog Chew Toy for Boredom, Virtually Indestructible Treat Dispenser, Long-Lasting Slow Feeder, Tough Strong Teething Toy for Medium/Small Dogs
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot.
Chew Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
Ideal For Playing Catch — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Football Dog Toy
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun.
Chewable Stick — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Best Squeaking Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Donut Dog Toy
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
Fun Crab Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Beco Pets Rough & Tough Crab Recycled Polyester Dog Toy
With a mixture of strong ropes and a soft middle section, this is a great option for dogs who love to play.
Perfect For Chewers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Pet Qwerks REAL BACON Infused BarkBone
This durable Bark Bone is infused with real bacon and is perfect for even the toughest chewers. Its non-toxic and non-allergenic materials mean its safe for your pup to enjoy.
Ideal For Playing Fetch — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball
This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
Bone Chew Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
.jpg?crop=1xw:1.00xh;center,top&resize=980:* "Why do dogs lick you? And are dog licks really kisses? (21)")
TastyBone Roast Chicken Knotted Bone Dog Chew Toy
This knotted dog bone, complete with a tasty chicken flavour, will help to prevent boredom. Tested to withstand aggressive chewing, it ensures the gums and teeth of your dog stay healthy with every bite.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs.
Great For Puppies — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Nylabone Gentle Puppy Dog Teething Bone
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
Great For Heavy Chewers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG KONG - Jump'N Jack - Durable Rubber Dog Toy
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
Onion Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's just over £4.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
