Why does my dog lick my face so much and how do I get him to stop?
I got my dog, Hero, when he was just a wee pup, and he's been a licker the entire time I've had him. Every time I go to pick him up he's scrambling to attack my face in kisses. It's super cute, but also slightly gross, and I know that as he gets bigger it's going to become more of an issue (especially because he does it to strangers too sometimes).
So, why do dogs lick people's faces? I assume my dog just loves me but could something be wrong? What should I do to curb this behavior, if anything?
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So, why do dogs lick people's faces? I assume my dog just loves me but could something be wrong? What should I do to curb this behavior, if anything?
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I think dogs learn this behavior when they’re puppies. They lick their mother’s face to let them know they want food. It could be that your dog is hungry, or it may be that your dog looks at you the same way they used to look at their mother.
Alternatively, if your dog is so excited that they won’t stop licking you, they may be overly stimulated. My first suggestion would be to put the dog on the leash. This way you are able to manage the dog and establish that owner-pet rapport. So if the dog is licking too much, refocus them back to something else by calling their name or presenting a toy. And then, that's your opportunity to direct them into the behavior that you want from them instead of all the licking.
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Alternatively, if your dog is so excited that they won’t stop licking you, they may be overly stimulated. My first suggestion would be to put the dog on the leash. This way you are able to manage the dog and establish that owner-pet rapport. So if the dog is licking too much, refocus them back to something else by calling their name or presenting a toy. And then, that's your opportunity to direct them into the behavior that you want from them instead of all the licking.
If your dog is incessantly licking you, see your veterinarian to have them check your dog for an underlying medical concern. This can sometimes be a sign of certain underlying conditions. Usually though, dogs just do this when they’re excited. Your new pup loves to hang out with you! If you ever want Hero to stop licking though, just clap your hands and say “no” to interrupt them.
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My 6 Yr old Cavapoo licks me on my face ears hand usually when we are cuddling on the sofa and in the night as he sleeps on my bed, which I wish we had not allowed but since my husband died it seems more important for him as he misses him so much. Just make sure you wash those parts licked very well especially hands.
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In my experience, this is almost always just a sign of affection. Dogs lick one another to groom and say hello when they’re young, so your dog is probably just super happy to see you.
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I had a dog that would always lick me nonstop whenever there was a thunderstorm. I think it was his way of making himself feel better. If your dog is greeting you by jumping up and licking your face, I bet it’s their way of soothing themselves and calming down.
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I don't think you have to curb the behavior unless you don't like when your dog licks your face or if your dog is making guests uncomfortable with his kisses. You can teach him some commands like "sit" or "down" to stop him from kissing guests.
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My vet told me something really interesting about this. Apparently, dogs have a crazy ability to taste and smell compared to us, and when they lick their owners, it’s often just because they taste and smell really good. It’s sort of like if your best friend smelled and tasted like cinnamon rolls. You’d want to lick them too, right?!
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Other wikiHow readers have submitted their own tips on topics similar to this one.
Reader Tips from Why Older Dogs Excessively Lick Things (And What to Do About It)
Give your dog a puzzle toy that has treats inside so they have something else to lick instead of you.
Tell your dog "leave it" if they know that command. They may listen and stop licking.
Reader Tips from How to Stop Dogs from Licking People
Try using a lick mat that has a textured surface. You can even put treats like peanut butter on it for your dog.
When your dog licks you, make sure to wash that part thoroughly with soap because dog saliva contains bacteria.
Reader Tips from How to Train a Dog
Remember, training is not about being dominant over your dog. It's about finding a way to communicate with your dog in a fun way. Never be too hard on your pup.
Try to do activities with your dog so they're mentally and physically tired when you leave the house. That way, they'll be too exhausted to get into trouble.
Show your dog lots and lots of love! Building a good relationship with them will help you in the training process.
When your dog learns something, be sure to give them treats and praise!
