Ask A Scientist© Veterinary Topics Archive

name         Steve G.
status       educator
age          50s

Question -   Why does a dog lick humans most of
the time? Is this a show of affection or is something else?
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It is their way of exploring the world. Much in the same way, human  children
put everything into their mouths as well. I presume dogs can pick up a lot
more information from what they touch with their tongues than we could. But
I think it is also a sign of affection, as anyone with a dog can tell you.
It is rare not to see a dog wagging its tail when he or she is licking
someone he or she loves.

Phillip Raclyn, DVM CVA
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