If you’re a German Shepherd owner, there’s no doubt that you have experienced your pup showering you with affection. Most of the time, it comes in the form of eager tail-wagging and happy barks; however, one arguably more persistent gesture is that ever-so-familiar face-licking! Why does my German Shepherd lick me so much? Is it a sign of gratitude or something else entirely?
This post will explore why German Shepherds are such devoted lickers and when to worry if your dog’s tongue gets too sticky. All owners want their dogs to show them love – but sometimes, too much licking from an overly enthusiastic puppy can be overbearing! Read on for tips on handling your furry pal’s compulsive face kisses.
Common Dog Behaviors
Dogs, just like us humans, have their unique way of talking. But instead of words, they use actions. So, when your German Shepherd does something, they try to tell you something.
Now, on to the big question: why does my German Shepherd lick me so much? Well, licking is a major part of a dog’s conversation with you. Imagine it as their way of sending a text! When your dog licks you, it sends a nice message saying, “Hey, I like you. You’re my best friend forever!” Also, licking helps dogs remember the taste and scent of their favorite people, which is why your German Shepherd might lick you more than others.
Reasons Why Your German Shepherd May Be Licking You
Here are some possible reasons why your German Shepherd may be licking you so much:
🐕 Affection
Just like we give hugs and kisses to show our love to our family and friends, dogs also have unique ways of showing they care. They wag their tails, follow you around, and, of course, they lick you a whole lot. When your German Shepherd licks you, it’s like they give you a big, sloppy kiss! This is their way of saying, “I love you!”
Dogs also bond with their humans through licking. Do you know how we feel closer to someone when spending time with them? For dogs, licking is like spending quality time. They’re not just sending you love messages, but they’re also bonding with you. They say, “You’re my family, and I want to be close to you.”
Why are dogs, especially your German Shepherd, so keen on licking? Well, when they’re puppies, dogs learn to communicate and bond with their mother through licking. Thus, when your German Shepherd licks you, they’re not just showing love and bonding but also behaving like a happy, contented pup!
🐕 Seeking Attention
Another reason your German Shepherd may be licking you so much is that they’re seeking your attention. Dogs, like children, yearn for attention from the ones they love. If your German Shepherd starts licking you, it might be their way of saying, “Hey, look at me! Pay attention to me!” They know that licking you will get them your attention and perhaps even a laugh or a stroke on the head.
🐕 Taste
Dogs have an incredibly powerful sense of taste and smell, which is significantly more sensitive than ours. They can detect scents and tastes that humans can’t and use these senses to explore the world around them. For dogs, licking is like tasting a delicious treat. When they lick your skin, they can taste the saltiness of your sweat, the sweet remnants of whatever you ate, and even the unique flavor of your skin!
Your German Shepherd might find your skin particularly tasty. Maybe you have a unique scent or taste that your dog can’t resist. Or perhaps they like the taste of the natural oils in your skin. It could also be that your German Shepherd is licking your skin because they like the texture of it.
Dogs’ tongues are rougher than ours so they might enjoy the feel of your skin against their tongue. Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt that your German Shepherd finds your skin delicious!
🐕 Smell
Apart from the taste, your German Shepherd might find the smell of your skin appealing too. Dogs have an outstanding sense of smell – far better than ours. This powerful sense of smell allows them to detect a wide array of aromas we can’t. So, when they sniff and lick your skin, they can pick up on all the unique scents you give off. These scents can tell your dog a lot about you, including your mood, health, and diet.
For your German Shepherd, your unique scent is attractive and comforting, and licking can help them familiarize themselves with it. In essence, when your dog is licking you, they’re getting to know you better in the most natural way!
🐕 Out of Excitement
German Shepherds are high-energy dogs that love to play and be active. They get excited when they see their favorite people, and sometimes, this excitement can manifest in excessive licking. Therefore, if your German Shepherd starts licking you as soon as you come home or they see something that excites them, it’s likely because they’re so happy and energetic!
🐕 Anxiety or Stress
Dogs can experience anxiety and stress, and their behaviors can change as a result. If your German Shepherd is licking you more than usual, it could be a sign that they’re feeling anxious or stressed. This could happen for a variety of reasons – maybe there are loud noises nearby, like fireworks or thunder, or they’ve noticed some changes in your household. Licking can be a soothing activity for dogs, like how some people bite their nails when they’re nervous.
🐕 Health Issues
In some cases, excessive licking can be a sign of underlying health issues. Your German Shepherd may lick you constantly due to discomfort or pain. It’s their way of seeking comfort or notifying you about their discomfort.
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Skin Irritation
Skin problems like food allergies or parasites can cause your dog to lick excessively. They might be trying to soothe itchy skin or get rid of parasites. If your German Shepherd licks a specific spot excessively, it’s worth checking for any skin issues.
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Gastrointestinal Issues
Dogs with gastrointestinal issues often exhibit unusual licking behaviors. If your German Shepherd is excessively licking you or even licking the air or other objects, it could be a sign of nausea, bloating, or digestive discomfort. If you notice any other signs of gastrointestinal problems, such as changes in appetite or stool, it’s essential to consult a vet.
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Oral Discomfort
Dogs may also lick more when they’re experiencing oral discomfort. Conditions like dental disease, gum inflammation, or oral tumors can lead to excessive licking.
How to Manage Excessive Licking
I know it can be frustrating when your German Shepherd licks you constantly, but it’s important to remember that they’re doing it out of love. However, if the dog licking becomes too much or starts causing issues, here are some tips to help manage it:
✅ Distract Them With a Toy or Game
You can often use a favorite toy or game as an effective distraction when your German Shepherd licks excessively. The moment you notice that your dog is about to start licking, engage them with a squeaky toy or start a game of fetch. This strategy serves dual purposes: it diverts their attention from licking and gives them a healthier, more beneficial way to expend their energy.
Plus, it’s fun for both of you. Make sure you provide a variety of toys to keep them interested. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or even a simple ball could work. Do keep in mind the goal is not only to distract them but also to encourage behavior that can replace the licking habit in the long run.
✅ Provide Them With an Alternative Activity
Teaching your German Shepherd dog alternative activities can also help curb their licking behavior. This could be a range of things, from teaching them new tricks to setting up playdates with other dogs or even giving them chew toys. The idea here is to keep your dog engaged and occupied so they don’t resort to licking as a form of entertainment.
For instance, you might teach your German Shepherd to shake hands, roll over, or play dead. These tricks challenge your dog mentally and give them something to do, effectively reducing their need to lick. Additionally, playdates with other dogs can help as it allows your German Shepherd to burn off energy and socialize with others.
Chew toys are another great alternative. They keep your dog’s mouth busy, provide oral stimulation, and can help with dental health.
✅ Use Positive Reinforcement Techniques
One effective way to manage your German Shepherd’s licking habit is by using positive reinforcement techniques. This involves rewarding your dog when they display behavior you want to encourage and ignoring or redirecting unwanted behavior like excessive licking. The key to this approach is consistency.
- Reward Non-Licking Behavior: Give them a reward whenever your dog is calm and not licking. This could be a treat, a belly rub, or praise. The goal is to make them realize that not licking leads to good things.
- Ignore Unwanted Behavior: If your German Shepherd starts to lick you, do not react. Ignore them completely. Avoid eye contact, don’t speak to them, and don’t push them away. Your reaction, even if it’s negative, can be seen as attention, which may encourage them to continue licking. You can reward them with attention or a treat when they stop licking. This helps to reinforce the idea that licking does not get your attention, but being calm and not licking does.
- Redirect the Licking: Another method is redirection. If your dog starts to lick you, redirect them to a more appropriate activity, like playing with a toy or doing a trick. After they’ve successfully redirected their attention, reward them with praise or a treat.
Keep in mind that training takes time and patience. It’s essential to stay consistent with your training and not give in to the licking habit.
✅ Manage Stress Levels
Managing your German Shepherd’s stress levels can significantly reduce their excessive licking habit. Stressful environments or changes can be a trigger for many dogs. You can help manage this by creating a stable, calm environment in your home. Here are a few ways you can reduce stress levels:
- Regular Exercise: Regular physical exercise is a great stress reliever for dogs. It helps burn off excess energy, leading to anxiety and stress if not properly managed. Additionally, exercise stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural mood stabilizers. Taking your German Shepherd for daily walks, playing fetch, or allowing them to play with other dogs can be beneficial.
- Mental Stimulation: Just like humans, dogs can get bored. Providing mental stimulation can keep your German Shepherd’s mind engaged and reduce stress. This can be achieved through puzzle toys, training sessions, or interactive games.
- Comfortable Environment: Ensure your home is a safe, comfortable space for your German Shepherd. This includes providing a quiet place for them to retreat if they feel overwhelmed, avoiding sudden changes in their environment, and minimizing exposure to loud noises.
- Consistent Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Having a consistent daily schedule for meals, walks, and playtime can provide a sense of security for your German Shepherd, reducing stress and anxiety.
✅ Identify Triggers That Induce Licking
Triggers can vary from dog to dog, but common ones can include boredom, stress, hunger, or a need for attention. Pay close attention to your dog’s behavior and try to note what circumstances lead to excessive licking.
Is it more frequent during certain times of the day? Does it happen when they’re left alone? After eating? During playtime? Once you better understand what triggers your dog’s behavior, you can take steps to avoid or manage these situations.
Consult With a Professional
If, despite your best efforts, your German Shepherd’s excessive licking continues, it might be time to seek expert advice. Veterinarians and professional dog trainers have the knowledge and experience to help address such behavior, especially if it’s rooted in health issues or deeply ingrained habits.
A licensed veterinarian can conduct a thorough examination to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing the licking. If health issues are not the cause, a certified dog trainer or animal behaviorist can provide personalized training techniques tailored to your dog’s needs. They can also offer helpful advice on reinforcing the training at home.
Remember, it’s crucial not to punish your dog for excessive licking. Instead, aim for understanding and patience as you guide them towards healthier behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my German Shepherd puppy licking their paws excessively?
One of the most common causes of excessive paw licking is an environmental allergy, such as pollen or dust. It is also essential to check your puppy’s paw pads for any signs of injury or irritation, which could cause discomfort and trigger the licking reflex. Another probable cause could be a food allergy, which can cause itching and lead to paw licking. Monitoring their behavior closely and consulting a vet is crucial to finding the underlying cause.
Q: Are older German Shepherds prone to compulsive licking behavior?
While all dogs can develop repetitive habits, this behavior is more common in older German Shepherds. This licking can be a sign of a variety of medical or behavioral issues, including stress, anxiety, skin irritation, or boredom. As pet owners, it is essential to be aware of your dog’s habits and seek advice from a veterinarian if you notice any concerning changes in your furry friend’s behavior.
Q: Can I use deterrents to stop my German Shepherd from excessive licking?
Deterrents can be useful in training your German Shepherd not to lick excessively. There are several pet-safe sprays and creams available that taste bitter or unpleasant, discouraging your dog from licking. However, it’s important to note that these should only be used as a last resort and under the guidance of a professional trainer or veterinarian.
Q: Why is my dog licking its ears?
One common cause is simply for grooming purposes – dogs often use their tongues to clean various body parts. However, if your dog seems to be licking its ears excessively or aggressively, it could be a sign of an underlying issue such as an ear infection or allergies.
Q: How do I find pet insurance for my german Shepherd?
There are many pet insurance options available for German Shepherds. It’s important to research and compare different plans to find the best fit for your dog’s needs and budget. You can also consult your veterinarian for recommendations from reputable pet insurance providers. Remember, having pet insurance can provide peace of mind and help cover unexpected medical expenses for your furry friend.
Final Words
All in all, it is clear that there are many reasons why your German Shepherd may be licking you so frequently. Whether it’s a sign of affection, obedience, or dominance, it is safe to say that your pup loves and respects you. As long as the behavior isn’t becoming too excessive, enjoy the moment and savor your special bond with your pup. If the licking does start to seem extreme, investigate further by talking to a professional trainer or veterinarian. This way, you can figure out if there is a bigger issue at hand and address it in the best possible way for both you and your pup. After all, their health and wellness should come first!