Help! My Dog Won’t Stop Licking Me

We may love to get “doggy kisses” from our companions. However, hygiene is a consideration, and it can be not very enjoyable always to be licked by your canine. So, read below to learn why dogs lick and how to stop Fido from licking you and others!

Why Do Dogs Lick?

Licking is a natural behavior learned as puppies from their mothers. Your furry friend may lick to greet people. They tell this new person they are not a threat and are happy to say hi. Additionally, your pal may lick for attention. People often react with “aw”s when witnessing puppy kisses. So, your pal will quickly learn that they can get attention by licking through this reinforced behavior.

There are many other possibilities behind the reason your pup licks. Learned behaviors and unintentional behavioral conditioning can be a factor. However, how can you stop this behavior?

Substitute The Behavior

Another option is to train an alternate behavior to avoid reinforcement from licking. So, train your pal to interact with you in ways that do not involve licking and reward this behavior. This will teach your pal they do not need to lick to get attention. For example, you can reinforce nose taps, front sitting, or even greet people with a toy instead of licking. Diverting their attention with a chew toy or a snack can curb their licking. So, you can find a durable chew toy that will last a long time to keep them busy and keep them from licking.

However, licking could indicate that they are lacking mental stimulation. So, you can provide them games, puzzles, and other stimulating activities. Or, licking could suggest built-up energy and boredom. In that case, you should take them outside, tire them out, and provide additional playtime in addition to their daily walk.

Ignore The Behavior

While trying to break this licking behavior, it is essential not to give any form of attention to this behavior. This includes scolding or pushing them away. Any attention, whether positive or negative, will fuel the behavior. So, avoid acknowledging this licking behavior altogether. You can even turn away from your companion when they lick.

Cover Your Cut or Wound

Dogs instinctively lick wounds to heal them. So, they lick yours because they love you and want to help heal your injury. If this is the case, cover your cuts with a bandage to protect the wound from germs and to give the illusion that it is healed.

Change Your Scent

It is possible that your companion’s licking is caused by a smell or taste that they like. So, try showering to wash off whatever may be causing the licking. Also, you may need to change the type of soap or lotion you use. Unscented is always a safe option. If that still doesn’t help, try using citrus-scened products. Most dogs do not enjoy the smell and taste of citrus. So, using a little may help prevent your canine from licking your skin.

Changing behavior is challenging and will not change overnight. It will require tackling underlying emotions and providing enrichment.  However, be persistent, and the behavior will improve over time!