A dog’s tongue is a multifunctional tool. It is used for drinking, eating, exploring the environment, but it is also a means of communication with humans and fellow human beings. When your dog constantly licks you, he is trying to tell you something. Behind this behavior, often perceived as an affectionate gesture, lie various motivations that must be deciphered.
The meanings of frequent licking
Affection and attachment
Spontaneous affection or confirmation of attachment, licking is a natural act that takes its roots from the birth of the puppy. The mother licks her young to clean them and stimulate their bodily functions. This behavior continues into adulthood, when dogs lick to express affection and strengthen social bonds with their peers and their owners.
Communication and solicitation
Language serves as a communication tool. A dog may lick you to get your attention, invite you to play, or signal that he is hungry or thirsty. This gesture can be likened to a way for him to “speak” and make his needs and desires understood.
Exploration and discovery
Fascinated by new aromas or residual flavors on your skin, dogs resort to licking to explore their environment. Since human skin secretes sweat and oils, it is a constant source of new discoveries for our four-legged companions.
Appeasement and submission
The act of licking can also be a sign of appeasement intended to defuse a tense situation or to show submission. In wolves, lower individuals lick dominant limbs to show respect and avoid conflict.
Sign of stress or anxiety
Less obviously, excessive licking can indicate that the dog is stressed or anxious. It’s a way to release accumulated negative energy and reassure yourself.
When should you be concerned?
Careful monitoring is necessary if your dog exhibits suddenly excessive licking behavior or if it appears to cause him discomfort. This behavior could reveal an underlying health problem such as skin allergies, pain or compulsive disorders.
Dermatological problems
Irritated skin will cause a dog to lick itself to relieve itching or pain. Allergies, parasites and infections can stimulate licking, which often requires veterinary intervention.
Pain or discomfort
A dog that licks a paw or a specific area of the body may suffer physical pain. An injury, thorn, or joint problem such as arthritis may be causing this behavior.
Compulsive disorders
Licking sometimes becomes an obsession or compulsive disorder. This behavior, similar to that observed in certain humans, requires a consultation with a behavior specialist (a veterinary behaviorist) to identify the cause and implement a suitable solution.
How to respond to your dog’s constant licking?
Offer Him more activities
Lack of exercise and stimulating activities can cause frustration and boredom in dogs, pushing them to repetitive behaviors such as licking. Make sure to meet his physical and mental needs through walks, games, and varied training training.
Create a stable and reassuring environment
A change in the environment or routine can cause stress in the dog, which manifests itself through licking. Be sure to maintain a stable living environment and provide moments of calm and comfort to your animal.
Consult a veterinarian
Any sudden or excessive behavioral changes should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out or treat any medical conditions. Early intervention can prevent health problems from getting worse and improve your companion’s quality of life.
Consider behavioral education
In some cases, it may be necessary to call in a dog trainer or behaviorist to correct inappropriate licking behavior. These experts will be able to establish a suitable rehabilitation program and give you advice on how to effectively manage this behavior.
Each dog being unique, their licking behavior, although universal in certain points, remains colored by their personality, their experiences and their environment. By deciphering the signals sent by your pet, observing the circumstances surrounding these behaviors and taking appropriate action, you will be able to better understand and respond to the needs of your faithful companion.
