Dogs' language, along with their sense of smell, is their window to the world. They use it to explore, eat, communicate, and groom themselves.
People tend to misunderstand this behavior. In fact, it is much more complex than one might imagine.
Behavioral characteristics of dogs
Licking is an instinctive behavior in dogs, related to their evolution and herd nature. Socially, licking serves to strengthen the bonds between animals. It can also be a form of appeasement.
It is also part of self-grooming. Through this act, dogs remove dirt, dead hair, and ectoparasites that may overgrow on their own fur (or that of their fellow dogs).
Dog saliva contains antibacterial substances, which helps prevent infection in wounds. Dogs' rough tongues act as a scraper to remove debris such as dirt or small foreign bodies that could worsen the injury.
When dogs lick a person (even if the person is standing), they are simply following their instincts and it is completely normal behavior. But why this particular body part?
Licking serves several social functions.
In particular, when it comes to the legs, this can be caused by several reasons:
The dog loves the person: it licks his feet, hands or face to show its affection.
The animal attracts attention to express its needs - wants to eat, drink, walk or play.
Anxiety: If your dog is licking you more than usual and obsessively, anxiety may be a valid reason. If so, you should consult your veterinarian.
The dog wants to get to know the person better: the animal will not only sniff, but may also want to "taste" and for this purpose lick the feet. Even if it is a person with perfect hygiene, feet always contain some personal smell, and dogs are able to detect it.
A form of relaxation: grooming also serves as a stress-relieving function, which the dog directs towards itself or others. Therefore, if it calmly licks a person's feet (perhaps lying on the floor), then one can intuitively understand that it is behaving in a social manner.
What if dogs lick people's feet? Does this behavior of dogs have any negative consequences?
If you detect a pathological pattern in your dog's behavior, such as obsession or submission without reason, you should seek professional help to help him overcome it. If not, he may just like that part of your body.
Should you let your dog do this?
If the person doesn't like it, the best idea is to distract the dog, for example with a toy or redirect the licking to another part of the body, such as the hands.
If a person walks around the house barefoot, there may be pathogenic microorganisms on their feet, and the animal brings them into its mouth by licking.
A dog with a strong immune system should not be affected (or to a lesser extent if the home has good hygiene). A person should keep this in mind.
How to Stop Your Dog from Lick Your Feet
Diverting your attention is the most convenient solution. If every time the dog tries to lick your feet, you distract it with another activity or object, at some point it will stop trying.
Positive reinforcement: Every time you ask your dog to stop and listen to you, you should reward him with treats.
Basic Commands: Teaching your dog basic obedience has many benefits because if you have a command associated with your dog to stop doing something, this will also be helpful when he licks your feet.
Why does your dog sleep with you
In situations that you cannot handle, it is a good idea to consult a dog ethologist.
This is the best way to ensure that you fully understand your dog's behavior and help him if he is having problems.
Previously we reported on cat breeds that are friendly.
Expert: Julia Tychino
