Why does a dog lick itself when stroked? - briefly
A dog may lick itself when stroked as a form of self-grooming or to show contentment and relaxation. This behavior can also be seen as a way for the dog to mark its territory with its scent, reinforcing its sense of security.
Why does a dog lick itself when stroked? - in detail
A dog's tendency to lick itself when stroked is a complex behavior that can be attributed to several interconnected factors rooted in evolution, psychology, and physiology.
Firstly, dogs are descended from wolves, which have a strong social hierarchy. Licking is a natural behavior in wolf packs, used by subordinate animals to show deference to the dominant ones. When a dog licks itself while being stroked, it may be mimicking this ancient behavior, signaling submission or acknowledging the human as the dominant figure in their perceived pack structure.
Secondly, grooming is an inherent part of canine behavior, both for hygiene and social bonding. Dogs groom themselves and each other to maintain cleanliness, remove parasites, and strengthen social bonds. When a dog licks itself during petting, it could be engaging in a form of self-grooming, reinforced by the pleasant sensation of being stroked.
Thirdly, licking releases endorphins in dogs, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators. The act of licking can thus become a self-soothing behavior, providing comfort and relief from stress or anxiety. In a situation where the dog is being petted—an activity that often induces relaxation—licking might serve as an additional mechanism to enhance this calm state.
Furthermore, dogs have scent glands on their paws, which they use to mark territory. When a dog licks its paws and then another part of its body, it is essentially spreading its scent, reinforcing its sense of ownership over its environment or even signaling its presence to other animals. While this behavior is more commonly observed in the wild, domesticated dogs may still exhibit remnants of this instinctive action during grooming sessions.
Lastly, licking can also be a form of communication and feedback for dogs. They use their tongues not just to taste but also to gather information about their surroundings. When a dog licks itself while being stroked, it might be exploring the area that is being touched, reinforcing its sensory experience of the interaction.
In conclusion, a dog's propensity to lick itself when stroked is a multifaceted behavior shaped by evolutionary instincts, social dynamics, and physiological responses. Understanding this nuanced action provides valuable insights into the complex world of canine behavior.