If you've ever wondered why dogs like to lick your feet, you're in the right place! Here are the 5 main reasons your dog might do this behavior.
1. To express affection
Dogs often lick feet as a gesture of attachment, similar to kisses. Occasional licks are normal, but if it becomes compulsive, your dog may be suffering from hyperattachment. In such cases, detachment therapy may be needed to ensure your dog's well-being.
2. To get your attention
Licking is a way for dogs to capture your attention. They quickly learn that licking elicits a response—whether laughing, talking, or pushing them away. To prevent reinforcing this, completely ignore the behavior and redirect your dog's focus to another activity once they stop licking.
3. To gather information about you
Your feet carry sweat and sebum, which contain biological information. Dogs use their highly sensitive nose and vomeronasal organ to analyze these scents and learn more about you.
4. Because they like the taste
Dogs enjoy the salty taste of sweat on feet. If licking occurs after a shower, it may be due to appealing scents from shower gels or moisturizers. Adding a drop of citronella essential oil to these products can deter your dog from licking.
For more tips on stopping licking, see Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much?
5. To calm anxiety or a tense situation
Excessive licking can indicate stress or anxiety. It helps the dog self-soothe or attempt to calm you. Signs include lowered ears, submissive posture, and tail wagging.
How to stop your dog from licking your feet
Follow these tips to prevent unwanted licking:
- Be consistent: Never allow licking if you want it to stop.
- Ignore: Avoid touching, talking, or looking at your dog while licking.
- Redirect attention: Engage your dog with games or toys after they stop licking.
- Provide exercise: Ensure daily walks, playtime, and socialization.
If these methods fail, consult a veterinary behaviorist or professional dog trainer to address stress, anxiety, or hyper-attachment.