I love dogs. There is so much goodness about them. We have had dogs for many years. And one thing runs true among them all. Dogs love to give kisses.
They seem so happy when we come home. Their tails wag like crazy. Their bodies leap with glee. And if they can get close enough to our faces, they always want to give us a kiss. Or twenty.
While a lick from our dogs is often a sign of affection, sometimes the behavior has a more unusual motive.
First of all. Dogs really do show their love by licking you.
The Kennel Club explains it like this. When they kiss us, it is a reminder to them. It is a comforting and instinctive action that reminds them of how their mothers treated them as pups. Their mommas liked them from head to toe. They want to show us that same kind of love and care.
Scientifically, licking releases dopamine and endorphins in dogs and helps them connect with others.
Here is one of the sweetest reasons. Dogs may lick their human companions to show empathy. Research has shown that our doggy friends are more likely to kiss us when we’re visibly upset. They try to express concern and lift our spirits all at the same time.
Then there is a dull need for licking. Sometimes they do it because our skin tastes salty to them. And they like the salt. Just like I love pretzels. But I don’t lick pretzels.
Back to dogs.
When our good dogs lick excessively, it may be a sign of behavioral issues. Not necessarily our faces, but when they lick things in general. In some cases, dogs do it as a way of coping with boredom, anxiety, or stress.
But more often than not, they do this to show affection.
Dogs may not say “I love you” with words. In human speak. But better than anything. They shout it loud and clear with every tail wag, nuzzle, and nose boop. And with that cheerful lick.
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“The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog.” — M.K. Clinton
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“Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.” — Orhan Pamuk
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“No matter how little money and how few possessions you own, having a dog makes you rich.” — Louis Sabin
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