Key facts
- Licking releases “feel-good” hormones (endorphins) in dogs, helping them reduce stress and feel calmer.
- Your feet can carry unique scents and pheromones that your dog can pick up.
- Licking feet can be a sign of affection, similar to how humans give hugs or kisses.
- Dogs sometimes lick feet simply because they enjoy the salty taste, especially after sweating.
- Licking before sleeping might be part of a dog’s nightly routine to unwind.
You’ve just gotten out of the shower, or you’re settling down for the night, and your dog starts to lick your feet and toes. Is this normal? Well, it’s a surprisingly common behavior that can leave pet owners puzzled. What is it about our feet that our dogs love?
From a dog’s perspective, the repetitive motion of licking releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones that help reduce stress and create a sense of calm. Plus, licking is a normal way for dogs to interact with the world—they explore using their tongues, similar to how humans use our hands.
But when it comes to feet licking, are there specific reasons behind it?
Why Do Dogs Lick Your Feet?
As it turns out, there are multiple reasons your dog loves to lick your feet. From showing affection to seeking attention, licking often holds different meanings depending on the context. Let’s explore some common causes behind this behavior.
Affection
In the dog world, licking is a powerful way of expressing affection. Much like how humans give hugs or kisses, dogs use licking to show their love and strengthen their bond with you. When your dog licks your feet, they’re not just demonstrating attachment—they’re reinforcing the connection they share with you. This simple act is their way of saying, “You’re part of my pack,” and showing appreciation for you as their trusted companion.
Gathering Information
Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, and licking is one of the ways they gather information about their environment and the people in it. When your dog licks your feet, they’re not just enjoying a salty snack—they’re actually learning about you. Dogs have receptors in their mouths that can process pheromones, the chemical signals that humans and animals emit. Your feet, which are often exposed and can collect unique scents and pheromones throughout the day, become an ideal source of information.
By licking your feet, dogs can pick up on your mood, health, and even where you’ve been. This behavior can be their way of connecting with you on a deeper, sensory level, understanding subtle cues that help them feel closer to you. So, when your dog licks your feet, they’re essentially gathering details about your well-being and reinforcing their bond with you.
Seeking Attention
Sometimes, licking is simply a way for your dog to get your attention. If you’ve previously reacted to this behavior by laughing, petting, or talking to your dog, they may have learned that licking gets them the attention they crave–and they will keep doing it.
They Like the Smell or Taste
Believe it or not, dogs often enjoy the salty taste of human skin, especially after sweating. We might find it strange, but to our furry friends, our feet can become an interesting spot due to the mix of natural body odors and sweat that dogs may find appealing.
Anxiety
Anxiety can trigger repetitive behaviors in dogs, including licking. If your dog is feeling stressed or uneasy, licking your feet might be their way of finding comfort and self-soothing, similar to how people turn to repetitive habits like tapping or fidgeting.
This behavior is often rooted in early experiences; as puppies, dogs are licked by their mothers to provide comfort, warmth, and a sense of security. Over time, they learn that licking can be a calming activity, helping them relieve stress and feel more at ease.
Boredom/Distraction
If your dog isn’t getting enough mental stimulation or physical exercise, they might lick your feet out of boredom. This behavior could act as a self-entertaining distraction when there’s not much else to do.
Habit
Licking feet can sometimes just be a habit that your dog has formed over time. If they started licking your feet at a young age and you haven’t discouraged it, it could become a routine part of their behavior.
Why Does My Dog Lick My Feet Before Sleeping?
If your dog tends to lick your feet right before bedtime, this behavior might be more than just a quirky habit—it could be part of their nighttime routine. For many dogs, the period before sleep is when they look to unwind and find comfort. Licking serves as a soothing activity that helps them relax and feel secure, much like how people enjoy calming activities like reading a book or listening to soft music to prepare for sleep.
This behavior might also be their way of reassuring both you and themselves of their connection, marking the end of the day with a comforting ritual. If your dog does this consistently, it could be their special way of saying goodnight and ensuring both of you are at ease before drifting off to sleep.
Is It Bad for Your Dog to Lick Your Feet?
Generally, there’s nothing to worry about if your dog occasionally licks your feet. However, you should be mindful of what could be on your feet—residues from lotions, sprays, or chemicals could be harmful if ingested.
Additionally, if the licking becomes obsessive, it might indicate an underlying issue that needs addressing. While it’s not harmful to the dog in most cases, be cautious and ensure good foot hygiene.
Possible Medical Reasons for Obsessive Licking
It’s normally rare for there to be a cause for concern when it comes to your dog licking your feet–it’s a very normal behavior for some pups. However, if your dog seems obsessed with your feet, it could be a sign of an underlying medical issue.
Excessive licking could indicate allergies, gastrointestinal discomfort, or even neurological problems.
In more serious cases, diseases like Cushing’s or diabetes might lead to excessive licking. If you’re concerned that your dog’s licking is more than just a habit, consulting your veterinarian is a wise step to rule out any underlying medical issues.
How to Stop a Dog From Licking Your Feet
If you find the behavior annoying or if it’s causing concern, there are several strategies you can use to try to stop it:
- Redirecting to a Lick Mat or Treat Toy: Offer a distraction like a lick mat with a spreadable treat to fulfill their licking instinct more appropriately.
- Ensuring Plenty of Exercise & Mental Stimulation: Keeping your dog active and entertained can help reduce boredom-related licking.
- Removing Anxiety Triggers: Identify and reduce sources of anxiety that may be causing the behavior.
- Wearing Socks or Shoes: A simple way to reduce access to your feet is to wear socks or slippers around the house.
- Avoid Big Reactions: Dogs can see a strong reaction, even if it’s negative, as attention. Stay calm and avoid making it a big deal.
- Practice Good Foot Hygiene: Keeping your feet clean and free from odors or residues may reduce your dog’s interest in licking them.
- Rule Out Health Problems: If the licking is excessive, consult your veterinarian to rule out any health issues that might be behind this behavior.
Final Thoughts on Dogs Licking Feet
Licking is a natural and often affectionate behavior in dogs, but it can become annoying or concerning for some pet owners. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior and taking steps to manage it, you can keep your dog happy and your feet slobber-free!
Whether it’s a sign of affection, boredom, or a deeper issue, knowing when to act and when to let it slide can make all the difference. If you’re ever in doubt, a chat with your veterinarian can help put your mind at ease.
