Understanding Dog Licking as a Sign of Submission

Dogs use a variety of signals to communicate within their social groups, and licking is a common way they indicate submission to either humans or other dogs. While licking can sometimes simply be a gesture of affection or an attempt to taste something on your skin, submissive licking has distinctive characteristics and meanings that owners should understand to foster a healthy relationship.

1. How to Recognise Submissive Licking

Submissive licking usually presents as a gentle and quiet approach where your dog licks you to signal they accept your higher social status. For example, if a dog creeps near and softly licks your hand or face, or licks you after you've expressed displeasure, this is likely a calm attempt to appease and reassure you of their respect and trust.

This behaviour is part of a dog's natural instincts and inherited social cues from their ancestors, wolves, who use licking to acknowledge pack hierarchy.

2. Other Reasons Why Dogs Lick

Not all licking is submissive. Dogs may lick because they like the salty taste of skin, want to pick up food crumbs, or just to show love and attention. However, excessive licking might indicate boredom, anxiety, or even health problems such as skin irritation or allergies. If your dog spends a lot of time licking themselves or persistently licking you, it’s wise to consult a vet to rule out medical issues.

3. Licking and Pack Behaviour

Domestic dogs retain pack instincts similar to their wild wolf ancestors. In your home, dogs often see people as the pack leaders or alpha individuals. Submissive dogs use licking to signal their position in the pack and to communicate that they pose no threat. It’s a polite social gesture that helps maintain harmony and clear roles within the household.

4. Face Licking: A Strong Sign of Trust

Licking your face is one of the deepest signs of submission and trust a dog can show. This intimate behaviour expresses that the dog respects you as their leader and feels safe with you. Dogs also lick each other’s faces to communicate non-aggression and to build positive social bonds.

Despite its affectionate meaning, it’s important to discourage face licking from a hygiene perspective, as dogs’ mouths carry bacteria that could be harmful. Redirect your dog gently to discourage this without causing anxiety or fear.

5. When Licking Becomes Excessive

Submissive licking can sometimes become compulsive, making your dog feel anxious or insecure. Excessive licking not only spreads germs but can also be a sign that your dog is stressed or needs more mental stimulation. Providing plenty of exercise, socialisation, and environmental enrichment can help reduce obsessive licking behaviours.

6. Other Signs of Submission in Dogs

Alongside licking, dogs might show submission by exposing their vulnerable stomach or throat, lowering their body posture, tucking their tail, or keeping their ears back. Puppies may even urinate submissively when nervous. Understanding these signals helps build respectful communication and trust between you and your dog.

7. Caring for Your Submissive Dog

Recognising submissive licking as a positive communication tool is key. Avoid chastising your dog for these gestures as it may increase their anxiety. Instead, respond calmly and reassuringly, and ensure your dog feels secure in their environment. If your dog's licking feels compulsive or problematic, seek advice from a qualified reputable breeders or a veterinary behaviourist who can help tailor a behaviour plan.

When acquiring a dog, always seek puppies from responsible sources who prioritise temperament and health to help you have a well-adjusted and confident companion.

Why Do Dogs Lick Each Other's Mouths?

Quick Answer: Dogs lick each other's mouths as a submissive and appeasing gesture to show they mean no harm and to build social bonds.

In canine social interactions, licking another dog's mouth is a common gesture inherited from wolf behaviour. It tells the other dog that the licker respects their dominance and poses no threat. This behaviour fosters peaceful relationships and encourages reciprocal friendliness within the group. When dogs lick yours, they're using a social language to signal trust and appeasement.

Understanding these subtle communications strengthens your bond and helps you respond appropriately to your dog's social needs.