Why Does My Dog Lick My Feet? Why It Matters

If you own a dog, you have probably felt the ticklish touch of your pet on your feet. While some people may find this behavior endearing, others might feel puzzled or even bothered by it.

Understanding why dogs lick their feet can strengthen your bond with your dog and help with any worries you have.

The Canine World of Licking

Licking is a fundamental behavior in dogs, rooted deeply in their biology and social interactions. From the moment they are born, their mothers introduce them to licking. Mother dogs lick their newborns to clean them and stimulate their bodily functions. This act is vital for the puppies' survival and establishes licking as a primary mode of communication and bonding.

As they grow, dogs continue to use licking for various reasons:

• Grooming: Dogs lick themselves and their pack members to maintain cleanliness and reinforce social bonds.​

• Communication: A lick can convey submission, appeasement, or a simple greeting.​

• Exploration: With their heightened sense of taste and smell, dogs use licking to gather information about their environment.​

Why does my dog lick my feet?

Given the myriad reasons dogs lick, why do they often target our feet? Several factors make feet particularly enticing to our four-legged friends:

Sensory Exploration

Dogs possess an extraordinary sense of smell, estimated to be between 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than humans. Our feet, confined in shoes and socks all day, accumulate a plethora of scents - from sweat to the various surfaces we've walked on. By licking our feet, dogs are essentially decoding these scents, learning where we've been and what we've encountered.

Taste and Salt

Human sweat contains salt, and our feet have numerous sweat glands. The salty taste can be appealing to dogs, making our feet a flavorful treat. This attraction isn't limited to feet; dogs often lick other sweaty areas of our bodies for the same reason.

Affection and Bonding

Licking is a way for dogs to show affection. By licking your feet, your dog might be expressing love and reinforcing the bond you share. Feet licking mirrors how they interact with other dogs, licking to show care and strengthen social connections.

Attention-Seeking

Dogs are astute observers of human behavior. If licking your feet gets a reaction, like laughter or talking, they might see this as attention. Over time, they've learned that this behavior garners a response, encouraging them to repeat it. ​It could be why they lick you instead of licking their paws.

Submissive Behavior

In canine social structures, subordinate dogs often lick their superiors as a sign of submission. By licking your feet, your dog might be acknowledging your authority within the household pack. ​

Grooming Instinct

Dogs often groom themselves and their pack members. Licking your feet could be an extension of this instinct, treating you as part of their family.

When Does Foot-Licking Become a Concern?

While occasional foot-licking is normal and typically harmless, excessive licking can indicate underlying issues:

Anxiety or Stress: Some dogs resort to licking as a coping mechanism during stressful situations or when experiencing anxiety. If your dog's licking becomes obsessive, it might be a sign of underlying emotional distress. ​

Medical Issues: Persistent licking can lead to skin irritations or infections, both for you and your dog. If your dog suddenly licks your feet more than usual, it might be trying to tell you something. This could mean there is a wound or a health problem.

Managing and Redirecting the Behavior

If you find your dog's foot-licking bothersome or if it becomes excessive, consider the following strategies:

Positive Reinforcement

Encourage alternative behaviors by rewarding your dog when it refrains from licking or engages in other activities. For instance, when your dog stops licking and sits calmly, offer a treat or verbal praise.​

Provide Distractions

Offer chew toys, puzzle feeders, or engage in playtime to divert your dog's attention from your feet. This not only reduces licking but also provides mental stimulation.

Establish Boundaries

If you prefer your dog not to lick your feet, gently move them away or stand up when they begin the behavior. Consistency is key; over time, your dog will learn that foot-licking doesn't result in the desired attention.​

Address Underlying Issues

If anxiety or stress is the root cause, identify and mitigate environmental stressors. In some cases, consulting with a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviorist may be necessary to develop a comprehensive plan to address the behavior.​

What To Do Next

Knowing why your dog licks its feet can improve your bond. It also helps keep both you and your pet happy.

This behavior is usually a normal part of how dogs communicate and explore. Notice how often it happens. This can keep it a positive part of your life together. If concerns arise, don't hesitate to seek guidance from veterinary professionals to ensure your furry friend's health and happiness.