How to stop your dog from licking you
Licking is a completely natural behaviour for dogs. They use it to show affection, communicate submission, seek attention, or even to soothe themselves. However, excess licking can become a problem, transferring bacteria and potentially irritating people. If your dog’s licking is becoming overwhelming, there are gentle, effective ways to help reduce this behaviour.
1. Teach Your Dog Early That Licking Isn’t Always Welcome
Starting training early, especially with a puppy, lays a good foundation. Just as you would discourage jumping up, teach your dog that licking people excessively is not desirable. Be consistent, calm, and patient as you guide their behaviour.
2. Avoid Punishment and Understand the Reason Behind Licking
Licking often expresses submission or an apology, so punishing your dog can backfire. Yelling may increase the licking because your dog might try to make amends with more licks. Instead, calmly discourage the behaviour without harsh reactions.
3. Manage Excited Greetings Calmly
Many dogs lick when excited, especially during greetings and departures. To prevent overexcitement leading to excessive licking, greet your dog calmly without lavish praise or exuberant attention until they settle. Reward calm behaviour instead.
4. Withdraw Attention When Your Dog Licks
When your dog licks you, gently move away or hold their collar to create distance without making a fuss. Use a firm but neutral “No” command, avoiding anger or frustration. Repeating this consistently teaches your dog that licking does not earn your attention.
5. Show Affection Through Touch and Engagement
Dogs need reassurance and bonding, so spend quality time patting, grooming, and engaging in play when your dog is calm and not licking. This reinforces your relationship and reduces their need to seek attention through licking.
6. Offer Mouth Occupation Alternatives
Particular breeds, such as retrievers, often have a strong mouthing instinct. If your dog likes licking because they enjoy oral stimulation, provide safe alternatives like chew toys or a stuffed Kong. Redirect their licking impulses to these items, but avoid rewarding licking by giving treats or attention while they lick.
7. Use Positive Reinforcement with Treats
Positive reinforcement is highly effective. Always have treats handy and reward your dog when they display calm behaviour without licking. If your dog licks while anticipating a treat, withhold the treat until they approach calmly. Over time, this helps your dog learn that keeping their tongue to themselves earns rewards.
Additional Tips and Considerations
- Use mild taste deterrents: Products like bitter apple spray or diluted lemon juice on your skin can make licking less appealing, but use these cautiously to avoid distress.
- Ensure plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation: Bored or anxious dogs are more likely to lick excessively, so regular walks, playtime, and training keep them balanced.
- Consistency is key: Mixed signals confuse dogs, so apply these practices at all times, with all family members.
- Consult your vet or behaviourist: If licking is obsessive, new, or accompanied by health changes, seek professional advice as medical issues or anxiety could be factors.
Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much?
Quick Answer: Dogs lick people to show affection, communicate, seek attention, or because of stress or boredom.
Licking is a natural canine behaviour with many meanings. It may be a sign of friendship and love or a submissive gesture. Sometimes dogs lick to get your attention or as a calming strategy if they feel anxious. Understanding the root cause in your dog can help you manage their licking more effectively.
How to Stop Dog Licking Excessively?
Quick Answer: Consistently withdraw attention during licking, redirect with toys or commands, and reward calm, non-licking behaviour.
The most effective way to reduce excessive licking is through consistent training and behaviour management. When your dog starts licking:
- Say a calm but firm “No” and gently move away without giving eye contact or emotional reaction.
- Ignore the licking by standing up or leaving the room if necessary to demonstrate it gets no attention.
- Offer an alternative such as a chew toy or engage with training commands like “sit” or “paw.”
- Reward your dog with treats and affection only when they behave calmly without licking.
Ensure your dog has sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to reduce anxiety and boredom-related licking. If behaviour persists, a veterinary check or professional behaviourist may help uncover underlying issues.
