Why do dogs lick people's skin?

Answer 1

It's an interesting question, so let's start with why they lick their own wounds first. First of all, a dog's saliva is very clean, as compared to a humans. And of course, their saliva contains enzymes, etc. which aid a dog in both cleaning their wounds and to promote healing. The second reason is most likely, instinct. After all, they lick their wounds, so why not yours, and for the same reason, just as a mother dog would lick the wounds of one of her pups, should it get injured. It's strange, but after a period of time, you realize that the dog isn't as much your pet, as you're theirs. That's where the training begins, and you've got a lot to learn. Don't worry though, it won't be long before you're properly trained. Seriously though, I wouldn't encourage a dog to lick your wounds, but I wouldn't yell at it for doing so. Just a simple pushing away at the muzzle and a gentle, "No" should be enough. Chalk it up to praternal/maternal instinct. Our canine friends are a devoted species, and they too feel that they must take care of their human pets.

Answer 2

I think they lick our hands to so their affection towards us Licking people's hands is a dog's way of showing affection. Also, they will lick hands as they like the taste of a salt found on human skin.

Answer 3

Dogs have this strange sense to care for their owners just as we care for them. When they sniff and lick. They actually secret this fluid that help the wound heal, and in occasions if the wound or scab is on it's way to infection, the dog might bite or claw off the bad scab, lick the fresh wound with the healing fluid and create a fresh clean scab that will not get infected

Answer 4

Dogs even lick their own wounds because there are suppose to be healing properties in their saliva although some vets will argue over this point. Personally, I think dogs do have healing properties in their saliva (wild dogs survive from wounds as well as other animals by licking) and they can smell there is a wound with their master and will lick to make it better. Dogs and cats are very insightful. They know when we are sad, ill or happy. If you think a dog licking your scab is dirty, it's not, but if it's annoying you don't let it do it to you. Marcy

Answer 5

You are gross. Use a band-aid.

no it is harmless because it is a dog natural instinct to lick a injuries

Answer 6

sometimes its a show of affection but alot of times there is something on your hand the dog likes,like the natural salt that is there

Answer 7

Dogs lick blisters because they are cleaning the blister for you. Also because they are dogs and they lick everything.