Why Does My Dog Lick My Hand?

A few quick licks on your hand are one of the most common things dogs do, and most of the time it is a friendly signal.

What it usually means

• Greeting and bonding. Puppies lick their mother's face, and many adult dogs keep using licking as a social "hello."
• Getting your attention. If licking gets a reaction from you, your dog learns it works.
• Taste. Skin is salty, and your hands often smell like whatever you last touched.
• Self-soothing. Licking can be a settling behavior for some dogs, especially in new or busy situations.

When to pay closer attention

Watch the rest of the body. Soft eyes and a loose, wiggly body point to affection. A stiff body, lip licking, yawning or turned-away eyes can mean your dog feels unsure. Constant licking of people or objects can be worth mentioning to your vet.

What you can do

If you don't love it, calmly move your hand away and reward your dog for sitting instead. Giving your dog an approved licking outlet, like a lick mat with a smear of food, can also help.

This article is educational and is not veterinary advice. If a behavior is new, sudden, or comes with other changes in your dog, check in with your vet.

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