It’s a behavior that drives some of us dog owners, crazy – the compulsive licking habit that many dogs seem to practice. Although our dogs are part of our family, they practice a different type of hygiene care than we do, preferring a swipe of the tongue to groom themselves over a sponge and shampoo.

Licking is a natural behavior in dogs, they use it to communicate with pack members, as well as to show submission and affection. So what does it mean when my dog licks me? Dogs learn to lick from their mothers and they use it throughout their lives to communicate with other dogs and humans. This instinctive behavior can be considered as a gesture of affection from dogs. Chances are that your dog is licking you because she/he loves you.