Why does a dog lick its owner's feet and hands? - briefly
Dogs lick their owners' feet and hands as a sign of affection and submission. This behavior is instinctual and stems from their ancestral wolf pack dynamics, where subordinate wolves would lick the dominant wolf's muzzle to show deference. Additionally, dogs may lick their owners' hands and feet to taste and explore their environment, as these areas often have traces of food or other interesting scents.
Why does a dog lick its owner's feet and hands? - in detail
Dogs exhibit a variety of behaviors to communicate with their owners, and one such behavior is licking. When a dog licks its owner's feet and hands, it can signify several things, each rooted in the dog's natural instincts and social structure.
Firstly, dogs use licking as a means of affection and bonding. In the wild, mother dogs lick their puppies to groom them and stimulate elimination. This behavior is carried over into domesticated life, where dogs may lick their owners' hands and feet as a sign of love and devotion. It is their way of showing that they care for and are loyal to their human family members.
Secondly, licking can be a form of submissive behavior. In the dog pack hierarchy, a lower-ranking dog may lick a higher-ranking one as a sign of respect and deference. When a dog licks its owner's feet or hands, it could be acknowledging you as the pack leader, expressing its submission to your authority. This behavior helps maintain harmony within the social structure of the household.
Thirdly, dogs may lick their owners' feet and hands to explore and gather information about their environment. Dogs have a highly developed sense of smell, with over 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses—far more than humans. By licking, they can taste and smell the various chemicals and scents on your skin, which provides them with valuable insights into your health, diet, and overall well-being. This behavior is instinctual and helps dogs understand their surroundings better.
Fourthly, some dogs may lick their owners' feet and hands out of habit or to seek attention. If a dog has received positive reinforcement—such as treats, praise, or petting—for licking in the past, it may continue this behavior to elicit similar responses from its owner. This can become an ingrained habit that the dog associates with pleasurable interactions.
Lastly, excessive licking can sometimes indicate underlying issues or health concerns. If a dog is licking its own paws or other areas of its body repeatedly, it might be experiencing allergies, skin irritations, or anxiety. Similarly, if a dog is licking its owner's feet and hands excessively, it could be a sign of stress, boredom, or the need for more mental stimulation. In such cases, consulting with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer can help address these behaviors effectively.
In summary, when a dog licks its owner's feet and hands, it is typically a display of affection, submission, exploration, or habit formation. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior allows owners to better appreciate their dogs' communicative efforts and respond appropriately. However, if the licking becomes excessive or concerning, seeking professional advice can help ensure the well-being of both the dog and its owner.