How To Stop Your Slobbering Dog From Licking Your Face

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?

Dogs also lick each other's faces to show respect, especially to the pack leader.  There's a well-defined social ranking within a wild dog pack, and members of the pack always know who the dominant dog is.  Although people find face-licking distasteful, it's really a good thing that your dog is showing his submission to you as the alpha male (or female). 

Your dog also licks your face to show his affection for you.  Your dog will greet you by licking you when you return home after an absence.  This is your dog's way of reassuring himself that you're still his pack leader, and that everything is OK in his world.

How Can I Stop Dog Licking?

Although a slobbering dog is a normal thing, most people would rather not have a dog plant a big wet one on their mouths.  How can you control excessive licking in dogs?

First, don't punish your dog for licking your face.  This is a natural thing for him to do, and he'll be confused and hurt if you punish him for it.  When your dog starts to lick your face or mouth, simply say, "no lick," and turn around and walk away.  Totally ignore him for a couple of minutes.  Don't look at him or talk to him.  Your dog wants your attention, and if you withdraw it, he'll learn that if he licks your face, you won't pay attention to him, so he'll stop doing it.

Be sure that everyone in the household is on the same page.  If your kids think having your dog lick their faces is great fun, and they continue to allow him to do it, you'll never get him trained.  Consistency is the key to companion dog training.

Excessive licking in dogs is one of many bad dog habits.  If you're struggling with your dog's behavior, you'll want to find a good dog trainer.  But that can be very expensive.  What's your alternative?  A good dog behavior course can work wonders.  Look for a course that includes a consultation with an experienced dog trainer, and that has a forum where you can get advice from other dog owners. 

What's stopping your from taking the next step to stop dog licking now?