Should I let my dog keep licking me?

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The answer is nuanced: While a little affectionate licking is usually harmless, Should I let my dog keep licking me? depends on your personal boundaries, hygiene considerations, and the underlying reasons for the licking behavior.

Understanding Canine Licking Behavior

Licking is a fundamental form of communication for dogs. It serves various purposes, ranging from expressing affection to seeking attention and even exploring their environment. Understanding why your dog licks you is crucial for determining whether to encourage or discourage the behavior.

Reasons Behind the Licks

Dogs lick for many different reasons:

Affection: Just like we hug or kiss, dogs lick to show love and connection. This is often seen as a remnant of puppyhood, where licking was associated with nurturing and bonding.
Attention Seeking: If your dog has learned that licking results in positive attention (even negative attention is attention!), they might continue the behavior to get you to interact with them.
Grooming: Dogs often groom each other, and they might extend this behavior to you as a sign of belonging to the pack.
Taste: Your skin can taste salty due to sweat or lotion, which can be appealing to your dog.
Anxiety/Stress: Excessive licking can be a displacement behavior, indicating that your dog is feeling anxious or stressed. In these cases, the licking is self-soothing.
Submissive Greeting: Licking can also be a sign of deference or submission, particularly when directed towards the face or mouth.

Potential Benefits of Dog Licks

While sometimes perceived as gross, dog saliva possesses certain properties that could be argued as potentially beneficial:

Natural Wound Cleaning (Debatable): Canine saliva contains enzymes like lysozyme and defensins which may have antibacterial properties. However, modern veterinary medicine strongly advises against relying on dog saliva for wound care, given the potential for infection.
Social Bonding: Licking is a form of social interaction that can strengthen the bond between you and your dog. The release of endorphins during these interactions can be rewarding for both of you.

Potential Risks of Dog Licks

While the benefits are debatable, the risks are more concrete. The primary concerns around Should I let my dog keep licking me? revolve around hygiene and potential disease transmission.

Bacteria and Germs: Dogs’ mouths harbor a variety of bacteria, some of which can be harmful to humans, especially those with weakened immune systems. Campylobacter, Salmonella, and E. coli are all potential culprits.
Parasites: Dog saliva can transmit parasites like roundworms or hookworms, particularly if the dog is not properly dewormed.
Allergies: Dog saliva contains allergens that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Wound Contamination: As mentioned earlier, allowing a dog to lick open wounds significantly increases the risk of infection.

Establishing Boundaries

If you’ve decided that excessive licking isn’t for you, here’s how to establish healthy boundaries:

Consistent Response: Be consistent in your reaction. If you sometimes allow licking and sometimes discourage it, your dog will be confused.
Positive Reinforcement: Redirect your dog’s attention to another activity, such as playing with a toy or performing a trick. Reward them for complying with your request.
Ignore the Licking: If the licking is attention-seeking, try ignoring it altogether. Walk away or turn your back.
Provide Alternatives: Give your dog appropriate chewing toys to satisfy their natural urge to lick and chew.
Address Underlying Issues: If the licking is due to anxiety or stress, consult with a veterinarian or certified dog trainer to address the root cause.

When to Seek Professional Advice

While a moderate amount of affectionate licking is generally harmless, there are times when it’s important to seek professional advice:

Excessive Licking: If your dog licks excessively, especially to the point of self-harm or skin irritation.
Sudden Change in Behavior: If your dog suddenly starts licking more frequently or intensely.
Underlying Medical Conditions: If you suspect your dog’s licking is related to a medical condition, such as allergies or gastrointestinal issues.
Anxiety or Stress: If your dog displays other signs of anxiety or stress, such as panting, pacing, or destructive behavior.

Hygiene Practices to Minimize Risks

If you do allow your dog to lick you, practice good hygiene to minimize the risks:

Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly after being licked.
Avoid Licking on Broken Skin: Prevent your dog from licking open wounds or cuts.
Regular Veterinary Care: Ensure your dog receives regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and deworming.
Dental Hygiene: Maintain good dental hygiene for your dog to minimize the bacteria in their mouth.

Comparison of Benefits and Risks

The following table summarizes the potential benefits and risks of allowing your dog to lick you:

Feature	Potential Benefits	Potential Risks
—————–	————————————–	—————————————–
Hygiene	None (can be a source of bacteria)	Bacterial, parasitic, fungal infections
Bonding	Increased affection and connection	Potential for obsessive licking habits
Health	None (debated wound cleaning)	Allergic reactions
Behavior	Expressing affection	Attention-seeking behavior

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What diseases can I get from my dog licking me?

While the risk is relatively low, dogs can transmit bacteria like Campylobacter, Salmonella, and E. coli through their saliva. They can also carry parasites such as roundworms or hookworms. People with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.

Is dog saliva good for healing wounds?

The idea that dog saliva aids wound healing is a myth. While canine saliva contains some enzymes with antibacterial properties, the risk of infection far outweighs any potential benefits. It is always best to clean wounds with appropriate antiseptic solutions.

Should I let my dog lick my face?

Many people allow their dogs to lick their faces, but it’s generally not recommended due to the increased risk of transmitting bacteria to sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, and mouth. If you do allow it, be sure to wash your face afterward.

Is it okay for my dog to lick my hands?

Licking hands is generally lower risk than licking the face, but it’s still essential to wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Avoid letting your dog lick your hands if you have open wounds or cuts.

Why does my dog lick my feet?

Dogs lick feet for various reasons, including the taste of sweat and dead skin, as well as for attention or as a submissive greeting.

How can I stop my dog from licking me all the time?

Consistency is key. Redirect your dog’s attention to another activity, such as playing with a toy or performing a trick. Ignore the licking, and provide alternatives like chewing toys.

Is it bad if my dog licks other dogs?

Licking between dogs is a natural form of communication and social bonding. It’s generally not a problem unless it becomes excessive or aggressive.

Why does my dog lick me after I shower?

Your dog might be licking you after you shower because they enjoy the taste of the soap or lotion on your skin. They may also be trying to “re-mark” you with their scent after you’ve washed it away.

What if my dog is licking themselves excessively?

Excessive self-licking can be a sign of allergies, skin irritation, pain, or anxiety. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Is it safe to let my dog lick my baby?

It’s generally not recommended to let your dog lick a baby, as babies have developing immune systems and are more susceptible to infections.

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Ideally, you should brush your dog’s teeth daily to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce the bacteria in their mouth.

Should I let my dog keep licking me? if he only licks my tears?

Dogs often lick tears because they contain salt, which many dogs enjoy. While it is usually harmless, always wash your face afterward to maintain good hygiene. Consider consulting your vet if you think the licking is out of character for your dog.