Why Do Dogs Lick You After You Yell At Them? Decoding Canine Apologies
Dogs often lick their owners after being scolded as a sign of submission, attempting to appease their human pack leader and reduce tension. Understanding this behavior provides valuable insight into the complex communication methods of our canine companions.
Introduction: Understanding Canine Communication
The bond between humans and dogs is built on a unique communication system that blends verbal commands, body language, and instinctual behaviors. One common and sometimes perplexing behavior is a dog licking you after you’ve yelled at them. While it might seem counterintuitive, this isn’t necessarily an act of defiance or affection; it’s often a complex interplay of submission, anxiety, and a desire to reconcile after perceived conflict. Understanding why dogs lick in this situation requires us to delve into their evolutionary history and decipher their nuanced social cues.
The Submissive Nature of Licking
Dogs are social animals, descended from wolves, who live within hierarchical packs. Within these packs, displays of submission are crucial for maintaining order and avoiding conflict. Licking is a common submissive behavior in the canine world. When a dog licks you, especially after a reprimand, they’re essentially saying, “I acknowledge your dominance, and I mean no harm.”
- It’s a way to signal respect and deference.
- It’s an attempt to diffuse tension and prevent further escalation.
- It reinforces the pack hierarchy in their mind.
Anxiety and Appeasement Behaviors
Yelling, even when intended as a correction, can be perceived as a threat by your dog. This can trigger anxiety and fear, leading them to engage in appeasement behaviors, of which licking is a common example. They are trying to reassure you (and themselves) that they are not a threat.
- Other appeasement behaviors might include:
- Cowering
- Tucking their tail
- Avoiding eye contact
- Lip licking
- Showing the whites of their eyes (whale eye)
The Role of Taste and Scent
While submission and anxiety play significant roles, the licking behavior might also be linked to taste and scent. Puppies naturally lick their mothers to stimulate feeding. This behavior can carry over into adulthood, where licking may be a way for dogs to gather information about their environment through taste and scent. The saltiness of human skin may also be appealing to them.
Reinforcement of the Behavior
Interestingly, our reactions to being licked can unintentionally reinforce the behavior. If you pet, talk to, or otherwise acknowledge your dog when they lick you after being scolded, they may learn that this action leads to positive attention, even if the initial intention was to appease.
Alternative Training Methods
While occasional yelling might happen, relying on positive reinforcement training methods is generally more effective in the long run. Positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones. This creates a less stressful environment for your dog and strengthens the bond between you.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Positive Reinforcement | Punishment-Based Training |
|---|---|---|
| —————- | ———————— | ————————— |
| Focus | Rewarding good behavior | Punishing bad behavior |
| Stress Level | Lower | Higher |
| Bond Strength | Stronger | Weaker |
| Effectiveness | Often more effective | Can be effective, but with risks |
Why do dogs lick you after you yell at them? Understanding the root causes will enable you to correct or stop the unwanted behaviors, if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my dog trying to apologize when they lick me after I yell at them?
While dogs don’t understand the concept of “apology” in the same way humans do, licking can be interpreted as a form of submission and appeasement. They are likely trying to defuse the situation and reassure you that they pose no threat.
Is it okay to let my dog lick me after I’ve yelled at them?
Whether or not you allow your dog to lick you is a personal preference. If you find it unpleasant, gently redirect their attention to another activity. However, keep in mind that rejecting their attempt to appease might increase their anxiety.
What if my dog licks excessively, even when I haven’t yelled at them?
Excessive licking can be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or even a medical issue. If your dog’s licking becomes a compulsive behavior, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems.
How can I reduce my dog’s anxiety and prevent them from licking after being scolded?
Focus on positive reinforcement training methods, create a calm and predictable environment, and avoid yelling or using punishment-based techniques. Providing plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and affection can also help reduce overall anxiety.
Does licking always mean my dog is being submissive?
No, licking can have various meanings. Sometimes it’s simply a sign of affection, a way to groom, or a means of exploring their environment through taste and scent. Context is key to interpreting the behavior.
Should I yell at my dog at all?
Generally, it’s best to avoid yelling at your dog. While it might seem like a quick way to correct unwanted behavior, it can create fear and anxiety, damaging your relationship. Positive reinforcement is a more effective and humane training approach.
My dog licks my face a lot. Is that different than licking after being yelled at?
Licking your face is often a sign of affection and attention-seeking. Puppies lick their mother’s faces, and this behavior can continue into adulthood. It’s different from the submissive licking that follows a scolding.
What if I think my dog is licking me out of boredom?
Provide your dog with more toys, puzzle feeders, and opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. Rotate their toys regularly to keep them engaged and prevent boredom-related licking.
Could there be a medical reason why my dog licks me excessively?
Yes, in rare cases, excessive licking can be a sign of an underlying medical issue, such as allergies, skin problems, or gastrointestinal issues. If you’re concerned, consult with your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Is it possible to train my dog to stop licking me?
Yes, with consistent training and redirection, you can reduce or eliminate unwanted licking behavior. When your dog starts to lick, gently redirect their attention to a different activity, such as playing with a toy or performing a known command.
How does a dog’s breed affect their licking behavior?
Some breeds are known for being more affectionate and prone to licking than others. However, individual personality and training play a more significant role than breed in determining licking behavior.
What’s the best way to react when my dog licks me?
Observe the context of the licking. If it’s after scolding and you don’t want to be licked, gently redirect their behavior. If it is a sign of affection and you are comfortable with it, acknowledge their attempt at connection with affection of your own! In either case, avoid reinforcing unwanted licking by inadvertently rewarding it with excessive attention.