As a caregiver, you may often find yourself puzzled by the idiosyncrasies of your canine companion. One such behavior that often bewilders many dog owners is why dogs lick your feet after a shower. While this behavior may seem quirky or even slightly amusing, it actually has its roots in the complex world of canine communication and their acute sense of smell.
Understanding Your Dog’s Sense of Smell
Your dog’s sense of smell is their primary sense, and it’s far more powerful than ours. To put it into perspective, while humans have around 6 million olfactory receptors, dogs have up to 300 million.
- Your Smell: Dogs recognize their owners and other familiar people through their unique scent. This is one of the ways your dog knows you are “you”.
- Your Emotions: Dogs can also pick up on subtle chemical changes in your body that can indicate your mood. This is why dogs often seem to “know” when you’re sad or stressed.
- Food and Other Scents: Dogs are naturally drawn to the scent of food and other interesting smells.
After a shower, your scent changes. The soap, shampoo, and body wash you use all leave behind fragrances that your dog finds intriguing. So, when your dog licks your feet after a shower, they’re not just being silly – they’re exploring these new, fascinating smells.
Canine Communication and Licking Behavior
In the world of dogs, licking is a form of communication.
- Submissive Behavior: In a pack, subordinate dogs will often lick the alpha as a sign of submission and respect. Your dog may be showing their understanding of your role as their leader.
- Affection: Just like humans, dogs use physical contact to express their love and affection. Licking your feet can be their way of saying “I love you”.
- Seeking Attention: If your dog gets a reaction out of you when they lick your feet (even if it’s just laughter), they may do it more often simply because they enjoy the attention.
Potential Health Concerns
While dog licking is generally harmless, there are a few potential health concerns to keep in mind.
| Concern | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Some people may be allergic to dog saliva and can experience rashes or other allergic reactions. |
| Infections | If you have any cuts or open wounds, dog saliva can introduce bacteria that can lead to infections. |
| Compulsive Behavior | If your dog is excessively licking you, themselves, or other objects, this could be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or other behavioral issues. |
How to Discourage Excessive Licking
If your dog’s licking behavior is becoming a problem, there are several strategies you can try.
- Ignore the Behavior: When your dog starts licking, simply ignore them. Don’t give them any attention – positive or negative – until they stop licking.
- Redirect the Behavior: Give your dog a toy or a chew to distract them when they start licking.
- Use a Command: Teach your dog a command like “no lick” or “enough” to stop the behavior.
- Consult a Professional: If the licking behavior is compulsive or causing other issues, you may want to consult with a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist.
FAQ
Why does my dog lick my feet after I shower?
Dogs lick your feet after a shower because they are exploring the new smells left behind by your soap and shampoo. It can also be a form of affection or a way to get your attention.
Is it harmful if my dog licks my feet?
In general, it’s not harmful. However, if you’re allergic to dog saliva or have any open wounds, it can lead to allergic reactions or infections.
How do I stop my dog from licking my feet?
You can ignore the behavior, redirect it, use a command to stop it, or consult a professional if it’s a sign of a bigger behavioral issue.
Does my dog licking my feet mean they’re submissive?
Not necessarily. While licking can be a sign of submission in the dog world, it can also be a sign of affection or a way to get attention.
Why does my dog lick other people’s feet?
Dogs may lick other people’s feet for the same reasons they lick yours – to explore new scents, show affection, or get attention.
