If you’re a dog parent, chances are you’ve been on the receiving end of an unexpected lick or two. 

1/27/2025 | Sniff & Bark

 While it’s undeniably adorable (most of the time), you might be wondering—what’s really going on here? Let’s get into the heart of why our furry friends are such enthusiastic lickers and what they’re trying to tell us.

1. It’s Their Way of Saying “I Love You”

Dogs don’t have words, but their actions speak volumes. When your pup showers you with kisses, it’s their way of telling you how much they love and adore you. Fun fact: licking actually releases feel-good hormones in dogs, so it’s like their version of a warm hug. Next time your pup licks your face, just think—that’s pure love right there.

2. They Want Your Attention

Sometimes, a lick is just a super direct way of saying, “Hey, pay attention to me!” If you’ve noticed that your dog gets extra licky when you’re busy or distracted, it’s because they’ve learned it works! Who can resist giving their dog some love after a sweet little lick?

3. They’re Exploring the World

Dogs experience the world differently than we do—through their noses, paws, and yep, their tongues. Licking helps them “taste” the environment and gather information. Puppies especially use licking to explore since they’re still figuring out their surroundings.

4. It Helps Them Feel Calm

Ever notice your dog licking themselves when they’re nervous or in a new situation? Licking can be a soothing activity for dogs, kind of like how we might take deep breaths to relax. It’s their way of calming themselves down when they’re feeling a little stressed.

5. It Could Be a Health Signal

If your dog’s licking becomes excessive—whether it’s directed at their paws, another part of their body, or even objects around them—it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Allergies, skin irritations, pain, or digestive discomfort might be at play. If you notice excessive licking, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet.

6. It’s in Their DNA

Did you know that licking is a behavior that goes way back to your dog’s wild ancestors? Puppies lick their moms to communicate, and adult dogs in packs lick each other to show respect or affection. It’s just a natural, instinctual behavior that’s stuck around in our modern-day pups.

How to Handle All That Licking

While the occasional lick is sweet (and honestly kind of flattering), excessive licking can be a concern. Here’s how you can handle it:

• Redirect Their Energy: Offer them a favorite toy or something else to focus on.

• Set Some Boundaries: If you’re not a fan of face licks (we get it!), gently train them to redirect their affection to a less slobbery spot.

• Help Them Relax: If your dog licks out of anxiety, calming products or a cozy routine might help. 

• Check With Your Vet: If you’re concerned about excessive licking, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet for advice.

Licks Often Mean: I Love You 💛

At the end of the day, licking is just one of the many ways our dogs connect with us. Whether they’re saying “I love you” or “I’m feeling unsure,” it’s all part of the special bond we share with them. So, the next time your pup greets you with a big, wet kiss, know that it’s their way of speaking their heart.