Have you ever wondered why your slobbering dog always seems to want to lick you on your face or mouth? Although your dog isn’t really doing it to gross you out, excessive licking in dogs is still one of many bad dog habits you don’t want to encourage.

Some folks don’t seem to mind it much, but most people are totally turned off by this common dog behavior. In this article, we’re going to look at reasons why dogs lick people’s faces and mouths, and how to stop dog licking in these areas.

Face Licking In Dogs Is Completely Natural

Canine licking has its roots in the wild. Puppies in wolf and coyote packs lick the mouths of the adults in order to get fed. A young puppy isn’t able to digest meat well. The adults in the pack eat meat from their prey. When they return to the pack, the puppy licks his mom’s or dad’s mouth in order to stimulate regurgitation of the meat, which by now is partially digested. This is puppy chow in the wild. Aren’t you glad you can go to the grocery store to buy dog food?

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Are you tired of your dog licking everything in the house? If your dog won’t stop licking, it can create problems. Is she licking herself bald? Does she lick you too much? Or is she licking your carpet or your furniture? If you need to stop dog licking, there are five things you should know.

If Your Dog Won’t Stop Licking, She Might Have Allergies

If your dog licks her paws after she eats, she may be allergic to something in her food. Check the first four ingredients. If corn or meat by-products are one of these first four ingredients, change brands to one that doesn’t contain either one. Also change the protein source. For example, if chicken is listed in the first four ingredients, look for a brand that has beef or lamb listed instead.

Flea allergies can cause hours of incessant itching from one flea bite. Your dog will lick frantically, and be in obvious distress. She may lick her fur off or develop a lick granuloma, which can be difficult to treat. If excessive canine licking is a problem, take your dog to the vet to rule out any medical conditions.

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