Dogs have an innate need to express love and affection for their owners, which is why they lick their owner's faces and hands in the hope of being petted. This behaviour is considered normal and has no cause for alarm.

If your dog licks you at other times, such as when he's sitting on the couch or in bed, it means that he associates your presence with being able to relax and feel safe because this is what happens when he is with you. If your dog's licking becomes obsessive or affects your quality of life, then it might be time to consult a professional dog trainer.

Generally speaking, it is not a good idea to punish your pet for licking you because he won't understand why you are angry and this could lead to resentment or fear. Instead of trying to discourage your dog from doing something that comes naturally, get him involved in other activities that are more likely to keep his attention.

For example, you could take him for long walks, visit dog parks or get a job that involves playing with and training your pet throughout the day. If he's already very excited when you come home, try giving him one of his favourite toys as a distraction.

If your dog has recently been neutered or spayed, then this might be another cause of his sudden wet kisses because surgery causes temporary changes that can trigger certain responses. In some cases, dogs lick more often after surgery because they see their owners as vulnerable and more dependent on them.

Don't worry, your dog's licking habit will eventually go back to normal if you give him time and show him lots of love every day.

Apparently, we taste good!

Dogs like the way humans smell and taste and are attracted to the taste of salt on our skin. Not only that but if you've just eaten something extra tasty, they may be after the bits you didn't quite get in your mouth!

Should you let your dog lick you?

We would suggest it's best avoided as it is not super hygienic! Saliva and germs can be absorbed more readily through a person's nose, mouth, and eyes than through their skin. Though illnesses transmitted this way are rare, it's best to avoid having your dog lick those parts of your face.

In most cases, dogs lick their owners because this is what they are used to doing with other members of their pack. As mentioned, licking helps them express love and affection and it also serves as a form of communication.

How can I stop my dog licking me?

Dogs will often lick you to gain your attention or because they are drawn to the salt on your skin. You can help prevent this by washing your hands and face before you touch your dog or give him a treat.

If your dog licks you obsessively or out of context, distract him with one of his favourite toys when you come home until he learns that this is what he should do.

Be firm - say no and walk away. Your dog should learn that he will be rewarded for non-licking behaviour (that's where our Lecker Bites come in!).

Exercise your dog. This is a great way to interact with your pet and tire him out so that he's less likely to seek your attention.

Are dog licks really kisses?

Many people believe that a dog's kisses are a form of communication. This may be true, but they're not always the kindest communication - some dogs lick to show their dominance over you.

Dogs lick for many reasons, and it can be hard to tell if your pup is licking out of love or because he wants something from you. It's important to pay attention to what your dog does after he licks you; if he sits patiently waiting for his reward then chances are he just wanted some lovin'. But if instead, he starts barking at you like crazy (especially in response to commands) then it might be time for an obedience class!

A common misconception is that puppies don't know any better than to lick humans. In fact, they learn this behaviour from their mothers and littermates. Puppy licks are a sign of affection and learning how to be a part of a pack. As soon as your puppy starts licking you excessively, make a fuss over them by giving lots of praise or treats, then distract them with playtime or training exercises right after.

Healing

Dogs lick themselves to heal wounds. A dog's saliva contains a healing enzyme called lysozyme, which breaks down the cell walls of bacteria and inhibits their growth on the skin. This is why dogs often lick their paws or other body parts after getting into something they shouldn't have like garbage or dirt. They're trying to clean up the mess and lessen any chance of infection occurring as a result

Dogs also use licking as a way to mark territory, much in the same way that cats do when they rub against furniture or people's legs. When you think about it, this makes perfect sense; if your dog licks himself in front of another animal, he is essentially saying "this spot belongs to me."

Conclusion

If your dog licks you, it's because he loves you. Dogs have an innate need to express love and affection for their owners with tactile contact, which is why they lick their owner's faces and hands in the hope of being petted. This behaviour is considered normal and has no cause for alarm unless licking becomes obsessive or affects quality of life. If that happens, then consult a professional dog trainer who can help train your pet not to do this anymore while also addressing any underlying issues with him before they become more serious.

Lecker Bites are a super tasty and healthy treat that rewards your dog by providing the tastiest of treats for rewarding good behaviour or successful commands.

They provide an excellent training aid for teaching your dog new tricks or improving existing ones.

They have the added bonus that they're low in fat so you can be sure your dog is getting rewarded with a healthy treat.

In addition to this, they're made from natural ingredients and are suitable for dogs of all sizes at any stage of their development.

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