Dogs use licking as a form of communication according to a veterinary expert – here's what your dog is trying to tell you when it licks your feet, hands or face.
While pet owners may find a dog's frequent licking to either be adorable or slightly annoying, an expert has now revealed the real reason why canines do this.
Vet Dr Julian Norton, speaking on behalf of Pure Pet Food, has provided an explanation of why our furry friends nudge and nuzzle with their noses. He explained: “People sometimes ask why dogs nudge and nuzzle with their noses. Part of the reason is that dogs really feel part of the family and part of the tribe, and they're trying to get attention by nuzzling you.”
However, this behaviour isn't just random as it's the dog's way of trying to connect with their owners. Dr Norton continues: “It's quite endearing. I think it's a bit like when dogs come and lick us on our face or hands or that sort of thing. They're just really wanting to be part of the family and get some attention.”
According to the vet, licking is often a bonding gesture or an emotional check-in. Whether your pooch gives you a soft lick on the hand or a passionate one on the face, they may be attempting to figure out your emotions, essentially communicating that they care, Surrey Live reports.
In fact, another vet has even claimed that dogs may actually feel ‘rejected' when their owners do not allow them to lick them.
While our furry friends are not capable of the full spectrum of human emotions, it's understood that they can still experience feelings such as happiness, enthusiasm, trepidation, irritation and even rejection.
A piece on Dogster reviewed by veterinarian Doctor Marta Vidal-Abarca confirmed that dogs might feel disturbed if your responses to their affection behaviour seem dismissive or indifferent.
A professional said: “A dog will try whatever they can to makeup for being rejected or unloved if they feel that way. They can interpret our facial expressions and vocal clues and understand how we are feeling towards them.
“If they don't feel loved and protected, they may exhibit behaviours such as tucking their tail between their legs. Their ears may also droop. This is because they are trying to make themselves small.”
Licking is only one common way in which dogs express themselves and interact with their human companions. Another typical dog behaviour which is often misinterpreted is tail wagging.
Contrary to the popular belief that a wagging tail always means a dog is happy, the truth is more complicated. In fact, the height, speed, and rigidity of the tail wag can communicate a range of emotions from delight to apprehension.
For example, a high, relaxed wag typically means your dog is excited while a low, sluggish wag could indicate unease or wariness.
What's even more lovable about dogs is that they sometimes have a ‘smile' on their face when they're in a playful or contented mood.
Although it's not equivalent to a human smile, some dogs are able to curl their lips up in a manner that bears a striking resemblance to a grin.
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When your dog has this facial expression, accompanied by relaxed body language and a wagging tail, it's safe to say that your canine is feeling happy.
These understated cues, ranging from licks to tail wags to grins, all contribute to creating a stronger bond between you and your pet.
Understanding their behaviours can lead to a more special connection and a happier, more confident dog.
