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Why Does My Dog Lick My Feet: 7 Possible Reasons

Do you have a dog as your lovely companion?

If so, you might have noticed it, licking your feet occasionally. 

If it’s been troubling you and you don’t know why it’s doing so, then fret not.

Because we’ll be going into detail about why it’s doing just that.

Why does my dog lick my feet?

Your dog licks your feet to express that they care and get your attention. They do that to communicate with you and also love doing it. Again, dogs may prefer your feet since they are brimming with scent information. The odors also reveal a great deal about one’s whereabouts.

Have we assured you up until now? If you’re looking to learn more, then let’s keep moving on-

7 Reasons Why Your Dog’s Licking Your Feet

In the next section, we’ve mentioned why your dog is licking your feet. 

Let’s find out what makes your pup tick-

Reason 1: Your Dog is Socializing

There are mainly two social motives behind why dogs lick feet. One of the reasons that our canine companions lick our feet is to show they cherish us.  

It’s already believed dogs lick us to convey devotion. Most of us refer to such licks as “puppy kisses”.

Dogs frequently direct their drooly kisses at our cheeks, arms, and toes. Your feet could be the only spot all those little dogs and pups can grasp! Licking and grooming loved ones are a means for dogs to show their feelings and build ties.


The tongue is targeted for your toes because it’s your dog’s method of expressing their appreciation. Dogs will frequently lick more dominant dogs to demonstrate that they are docile and not menacing. And your doggie may be doing the same thing with your feet.

Reason 2: Your Dog Thinks Your Feet are Meat

Like every creature on the globe, dogs have always sought food. Sometimes dogs may mistake your feet for meat because they are formed of flesh and bone. It probably happens due to the extra salty taste of sweat.

If you have lumps on your feet, they might have the consistency of a chewy raw snack. But dogs are clever, so they would think twice about biting their furless guardians. Therefore they would instead lick your feet.

Reason 3: Your Dogs Want Your Attention

Isn’t it difficult to overlook a puppy caressing your feet? Your dog may have learned that licking your feet interests you, especially if they want anything or would like to grab it.

Typically canines will glare at you and then wish to engage. But they may use specific ways to catch your interest if they fail. This may include pawing at your hand or bopping their snout on your thigh, or even licking your hands and feet.

Reason 4: Your Dog is Showing Love

A mother dog licks its pups to clean them up. She does so to express her love and to stimulate systems in the body.  

Sometimes mature canines lick their wounds since drool can help keep the area clean. It also leads to improving the healing process. 

According to folklore, having a dog lick would cure illness. For example, the ancient Greek god of medicine had a furry friend. His temples had holy canines that licked humans and reportedly healed them.

If you’re sick, your dog may lick you so that you feel better. They will lick any wounds to keep you tidy. They’re certainly also attempting to console you.

Reason 5: Your Feet are Dirty

The more disgusting things are, the more dogs adore them. They roll about on the lawn, consume trash, and even defecate! 

Human feet can be revolting, which makes them appealing to dogs. If this is the case, you should adopt adequate foot hygiene.

Reason 6: Your Feet are at their Mercy

You should admit it: dogs are derived from old predators like wolves. As a result, they may still possess predatory impulses. But because we humans are at the top of the pecking order, they can only lick our toes.

Reason 7: Your Dogs have a Problem

Foot licking, maybe a compulsive practice that serves as a method of coping. It could be a symptom that your dog is stressed out due to something. 

It could be a medical problem or a shift in their daily routine. You can consult a veterinarian in this case.

We’ve discussed seven reasons why your dog might lick your feet. I hope these were enough to explain your dog’s licking habits.

How Can I Get My Dog to Stop Licking My Feet?

While your dog is undoubtedly sincere, you may not appreciate this behavior. It could be amusing, shudder, or incredibly sensitive to touch. Don’t berate or ignore your dog if it keeps doing so.  

They’re only trying to express their emotions in their unique style. Because they can’t just tell you how they feel. If you discipline your dog, you will only break their hearts and achieve a little

That’s why you can begin offering your dog something they enjoy in its jaws. You can submit a game or treat whenever they decide to lick your foot. 

When they stop licking, ensure to reward them with positive reinforcement. They will learn that they are doing well if they receive positive support.

Here are some recommendations for dog treats if you would like to take a look:

Product 1
Product 2

Dog treats come in different varieties and tastes. If your dog is a picky eater, you can choose from a wide range of options. 

All of the products we recommend have been tested by us in advance. So you can buy them without worrying about the quality.

Consult a veterinarian if your dog can’t even keep their tongue in its mouth. You should perform this to determine whether your dog has any underlying medical concerns.

FAQs

Is it terrible if your dog licks your feet?

This conduct may appear strange to specific owners. It might be nearly unbearable for those with fidgety feet. But licking is a natural dog activity.

What causes dogs to tilt their heads?

To maneuver past their unavoidable collars, dogs bend their necks. They often do it to enhance their visual sharpness. That adorable head tilt broadens one’s field of view. 

Why is my dog staring at me?

Dogs often gaze at their guardians to communicate devotion. Just like people when they look into the eyes of anyone, they adore. The reciprocal looking of humans and dogs causes the production of oxytocin.