Why Dogs Lick Washed Owners: The Curious Reason!
Today's article delves into the intriguing reason why dogs have a tendency to lick their owners after a bath. As the owner, it's crucial to ensure that all soap is thoroughly rinsed off your body, preventing any residue from being licked by your furry friend.
They want to clean you up. We all know that dogs use their tongues to groom themselves, a skill passed down from their mothers, who would lick their puppies to stimulate defecation and urination. However, this doesn't mean they're trying to make you go to the bathroom; they simply want to keep you clean.
This behavior is a sign of a harmonious humancanine relationship. It's a simple truth: dogs love water, and they are just that straightforward.
If you notice your dog prefers to lick the bathroom floor after you've bathed, it's a clear sign that they are a water enthusiast. In other words, they might just be thirsty.
They care about you. Besides using their tongues to stimulate elimination in their puppies, mother dogs also lick to express love. Dogs show you the same affection, which is why they might lick your hands, face, or even your freshly bathed body, especially when there are water droplets left behind. They are particularly concerned about these droplets and worry about their potential impact on you.
They enjoy the scent. With the wide variety of fragrances in modern shampoos, those with choice paralysis might find it challenging, but dogs don't seem to mind.
We all know that a dog's nose can detect many components of a particular scent. So, if your dog is drawn to licking you after a bath, it's likely that they are intrigued by the scent of the shampoo.
Not convinced? Try switching shampoos or bathing without any to see if the behavior changes.
They are showing submission, a common occurrence.
Dogs express submission in various ways, and licking is one of them. Moreover, licking you can trigger the release of endorphins in their bodies, leading to feelings of happiness and contentment.
Is it really safe to let them lick you after a bath?
Feel free to let them if you don't use any skincare products postbath and ensure that all soap is rinsed off thoroughly during your shower. However, if you apply skincare products afterward, it's best to keep them away from your dog's licking, as these products can be ingested through their tongues and lead to a range of adverse reactions.