What Do Dog Licks Mean?
Dogs have different ways to show their love , loyalty and obedience. One of them is licking us. Dog licks are one of those ways to express affection.
But what does each lick mean? The truth is that dogs lick for different causes, and when they start using their tongues, they try to convey different messages to us.
Since we are its leaders, it is important that we know how to interpret the meaning of this lick-lick. We must begin to know the motivations that lead the dog to lick. Next, let’s look at the causes of this.
Canine licks, a demonstration of humility and submission
When dogs walk in groups and in packs, one way to show admiration for the leader is through licking. It is possible that this communicative and social function of this species is used by dogs to communicate with their owners.
As an owner, we feed them and look for controlled land to live in and an order they learn to obey. Of course, our pet perceives us as their guide and shows us their respect by licking us with devotion and awe.
The licks on the hand can be synonymous with this admiration.
When the animal is not well
This is one of the reasons why we should be aware of our dog’s use of his tongue. Sometimes it means you feel bad, expressing it through your licks. If your eyes are sad and your face looks dejected, a lick will do to get attention.
And if, on the contrary, you lick a part of your body, it is possibly because you are feeling some pain in the area where you apply your own saliva.
It’s not just open wounds. He can lick himself when he is suffering from allergies, an internal bruise or even an infection in some superficial glands. If it’s something that causes him pain, he’ll try to make sure with the use of his own tongue.
Dog licks try to comfort us
Dogs can sense our moods. Some studies claim that they know very well if we are sad, upset or depressed. When the low mood is noticeable, our pet will come towards us to comfort us with his restorative licks.
Also, if we’re a little nervous, our pet will notice this and find some way to prove he’s on our side, in order to comfort us. When we are in this situation, we notice that you are restless and anxious, trying to transmit joy and calling attention in a clear way.
The truth is that licking is one of the most ingrained communication methods in these cute four-legged friends.
Dogs want to show their love with licking
Of course, all of the above can only mean one thing: our pet likes us! The fact that the dog licks is a form of expression of love and attachment. In the case of strangers, licking will be an act of camaraderie for which dogs show sympathy.
The frequency with which the dog licks gives an idea of its personality. Some lick everyone else and that’s why they are considered to be playful, kind and affectionate. Others just limit themselves to licking those of their closest acquaintance from time to time.
Why do dogs lick themselves?
It doesn’t always mean that the dog licks itself that it is sick. In fact, they can lick their paws, genitals and other parts of the torso if they feel they are dirty. It is normal for some to do this when they step on the ground or sticky substances.
As noted, this is a cleaning system similar to that used by cats to maintain hygiene. However, it is obvious that in dogs this is not as intensive. Unlike felines, dogs are not so afraid of water.
Afraid of getting an infection from dog licking?
There are people who like to have dogs, but restrict the physical contact they maintain with their faithful companion. We are talking about those owners who do not want to be licked in the face, or who prevent the dog from climbing on top of them.
According to a scientific study conducted at the University of Arizona in 2015, dog owners who maintain direct contact with their pets are happier and enjoy better health than other people. Apparently, these people’s bodies are less prone to disease.
They deal with the hypothesis that microbes in dogs’ stomachs and saliva strengthen our immune system.
