Why dogs lick people: scientists explain animal behavior

Humans and dogs have lived side by side for thousands of years. During this time, animals managed to gain a reputation as man’s best friends, and licking the owner’s face became a kind of sign of warm feelings. So what happens in a dog’s brain when it licks a person’s face or hands? Popular Science writes that scientists do not have a definitive answer to this question, but there are still some theories.

Dogs are very social and friendly towards humans, according to Ellen Furlong, an assistant professor of psychology and neurobiology at Transylvania University in Kentucky. Your puppy’s interaction with you is usually for a purpose, but according to one expert, your puppy’s licking can actually say a lot.

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To understand the intent and meaning of a dog’s actions, the entire context of the situation must be evaluated, Furlong says. For example, if a familiar dog approaches you energetically, licking repeatedly and with a relaxed “wiggling” posture, then licking the face or hand is likely an expression of greeting or enthusiasm.

The animal’s behavior may also be an attempt to create or confirm affiliation, according to Zachary Silver, a professor of psychology at Occidental College. According to the expert, arousal and overstimulation probably play a role. At the same time, scientists found that most dogs do not lick humans indiscriminately; This suggests that the behavior is disproportionately directed towards people the animals know. In simple terms, if a dog does not greet everyone with the same licks, this action most likely has a social meaning – strengthening the “pack” relationship.

Some scientists believe that social hierarchy may also underlie this behavior. For example, when interacting with people, depending on the situation, this gesture can also convey an aspect of appeasement and submission. Furlong says licking may also mean dogs want some distance and space.

“Licking to release” is a well-known behavior among researchers and dog trainers that signals that a pet is trying to manipulate someone or avoid unwanted attention, according to scientists. One or two licks of the face and hands, a tense body, and an attempt to turn away or move away are signs of withdrawal.

In wolves, the wild ancestors of our domestic animals, cubs often lick their mother’s face and beg for regurgitated food when she returns to the den. So, according to Barnard College psychology professor Alexandra Horowitz, licking the host’s face when they come home may actually be not just a greeting, but also a request for food.

Previously Focus He wrote that scientists have found that dogs can distinguish between cruel and incompetent people.