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If you have a dog or have interacted with one, you know they have a tendency to lick. But what does it mean?
Dogs have a communication system limited and therefore use body language as best they can to show their emotions and feelings to tutors. In this article you'll discover that dogs lick for many reasons, not just to show their love and affection (something we find adorable, of course!).
Keep reading this PeritoAnimal article to find out why do dogs lick.
Different Meanings of Dog Licks
There are several reasons that lead the dog to lick you non-stop, expressing its affection and love for you:
- Likes you: Like humans, dogs show affection and tenderness kissing those they love, kiss back!
- Fear: A careful, weak lick can represent fear, dread, or submission when accompanied by low ears or tail. He shows loyalty so you don't scold him.
- Hungry: If you see that your dog licks its muzzle excessively while opening its mouth, it means that your pet is hungry. It all starts with the puppy stage, where puppies lick their mouths to ask their mom to regurgitate their food.
- Clean: Dogs are generally clean animals. The mother washes her offspring as soon as they are born and continues until they reach maturity. At this stage, dogs lick each other to show affection.
- Search contact: If after he licks you, you offer him a pet, the dog will interpret the lick as a way to get pampered.
- To explore: It is common for a dog to lick something that he does not know as an investigation method. Don't forget that a dog's sense of smell is much more developed than a human's. In some cases, the fact that dogs lick their owners can be an indication that they are suffering from an illness.
- Draw attention to: If you find yourself sick or if he just wants to go for a walk, it's normal for the dog to draw attention with a naughty lick all over the face.
- lick the air: In this case, your dog is trying to reassure you and ask you to trust him.
- Excess licking: Your dog is restless, nervous, or may feel like throwing up.
Don't forget that the dog's body language is very extensive. We guarantee that if you make the effort to understand it, it may surprise you. Continue browsing PeritoAnimal to discover everything about pets and create a unique relationship with your dog.
Why my dog...
If it's the first time you've had a dog and you're a little lost, don't worry. PeritoAnimal will help you with articles that explain your behavior. Do not hesitate to visit:
- Why my dog follows me everywhere: This is a very common question. Dogs are sociable animals that love to follow whoever takes care of them and gives them affection.
- Why Dogs Howl: Is your dog a bit scandalous? Find out how it can help you be more relaxed and at ease indoors. You will also learn about communication.
- Why Dogs Tremble: Some dogs, especially small breeds, tend to tremble. Find out why they do it and how you can help them become more comfortable and stop shivering.
What about cats? Why do cats lick?
If you enjoyed discovering why dogs lick, don't hesitate to continue browsing PeritoAnimal to find out why cats lick. Cats, despite being more independent, also want to show their love and express their emotions to those who protect and care for them.
