These actions aren’t just haphazard
You might find it cute or incredibly annoying, but an expert has revealed what it really means when your dog licks you.
Vet Dr Julian Norton says when a dog licks you, it can carry genuine meaning. Speaking on behalf of Pure Pet Food, he explains: “People sometimes ask why dogs nudge and nuzzle with their noses.
“Part of the reason is that dogs really feel part of the family and part of the tribe, and they’re trying to get attention by nuzzling you.”
So, these actions aren’t just haphazard, they’re your dog’s attempts at connecting with you.
Dr Norton adds: “It’s quite endearing. I think it’s a bit like when dogs come and lick us on our face or hands or that sort of thing. They’re just really wanting to be part of the family and get some attention.”
According to Dr Norton, licking serves as a sign of bonding or an emotional ‘check-in’.
“Whether it’s a tender lick on the hand or an enthusiastic one on the face, your dog could be attempting to gauge your mood. It’s their way of expressing ‘I care’.”
However, licking is just one of the many ways dogs communicate and express themselves to their owners.
One of those behaviours is tail wagging, which is often misunderstood by owners, per the Express.
Many of us associate a wagging tail with a happy dog, but the reality is more nuanced, as the height, speed and stiffness of the wag can signal anything from excitement to anxiety.
A high and relaxed wag typically signals excitement, while a low and sluggish wag might point more towards anxiety or wariness.
Perhaps most surprising of all is that dogs can appear to “smile” when they feel relaxed or playful. While it’s not the same as a human grin, some dogs pull back their lips in a way that looks strikingly similar.
When this adorable grin is paired with relaxed body language, such as a gentle tail wag, it is usually a clear sign your dog is feeling happy and at ease.
These subtle behaviours, from licking and tail wagging to smiling-like expressions, all help strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.
Understanding what they mean can deepen that connection and help your pet feel happier, more secure and more confident.
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