Being consistently licked by your golden retriever, you might ponder – why do golden retrievers lick excessively?
Golden retrievers lick primarily to show affection, seek attention, and explore. It’s a natural, comforting behavior, but excessive licking might signal medical issues like allergies or anxiety, requiring a vet’s check-up.
In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons behind excessive licking, how to manage this behavior, and more!
Table of Contents
Why Do Golden Retrievers Lick?
You may be wondering, why does my dog lick so much? Well, their licking can be categorized into three types of licking – behavior-based licks, health-based licking, and breed-specific licking tendencies.
Let’s explore them one-by-one below.
1. Behavior-Based Licks
Affection
If you are curious and thinking what does it mean when a dog licks you in the face? It can be their way of showing you affection.
RECOMMENDED READING: How Do Golden Retrievers Show Affection?
Dogs often lick as a way to show affection. As dogs are pack animals, licking your face can signify that your dog sees you as part of their pack, so they will naturally express love and submission to the alpha.
It’s a natural behavior developed during their early days when their mother’s licking provided comfort.
RELATED: When Can Golden Retriever Puppies Leave Their Mother?
Licking helps them build bonds with their owners, triggering the release of dopamine and endorphins, and promoting a sense of tranquility and joy.
Happiness
Your golden retriever may use licking as a positive form of communication to convey their happiness.
When your dog is licking, it expresses a moment of pleasure and satisfaction, reflecting the joy they feel in that particular situation.
Their licking is a behavioral response to external stimuli. It is their way of letting you know they are happy to see you or their toy.
Greeting Behavior
Dogs communicate a lot through body language and licking.
When your golden retriever greets you with excessive licking, it is a non-verbal way for your dog to communicate their feelings of happiness upon your return.
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Your dog associates your arrival with positive experiences, such as playtime, feeding, or simply spending time together.
Attention-Seeking
Like children, dogs yearn for attention especially if you have neglected them for a long time.
Licking is a common attention-seeking behavior in dogs.
Your golden retriever may have learned that licking is an effective way to capture your focus and engage with you.
Dogs will use licking to indicate their desire for you to either pet or engage in play with them.
Relaxed State
Licking serves as a clear indicator that your golden is in a state of relaxation.
The type of licking observed here is calm, slow, and irregular.
When your golden retriever feels relaxed, they may engage in excessive licking to calm themselves.
This behavior releases endorphins, which can create a sense of relaxation for the dog.
If your dog has had a busy or stimulating day, they may use licking as a way to release tension and reduce stress.
If your golden retriever is feeling warm or is trying to regulate their body temperature, licking can provide a cooling sensation, contributing to a more comfortable and relaxed state.
Your golden retriever may have learned that being close to you is associated with relaxation and comfort, they may express this by licking.
Hunger and Thirst
Dogs often use licking as a way to communicate their needs.
If your golden retriever is hungry or thirsty, licking becomes a signal to convey their desire for food or water.
RELATED: Why Is My Golden Retriever Always Hungry?
In some cases, licking can be a way for dogs to moisten their mouths when they are thirsty.
Boredom
Golden retrievers, being high-energy breeds, require both mental and physical stimulation.
If they don’t get enough exercise and interaction they require daily, your golden retriever may excessively lick you due to boredom or a way to pass the time.
It’s likely a result of seeking stimulation, attention, and an outlet for their energy.
Exploration and Curiosity
Dogs use their mouths to explore the world around them, and licking is one way they investigate their environment.
Golden retrievers use their tongues just before the opening of their eyes.
This licking behavior of your puppy may develop into a consistent habit, continuing and progressing as they transition to adulthood.
It’s a sensory experience that helps them gather information about objects, people, and other animals.
We Taste Good
Your golden retriever may excessively lick you because they find you tasty, it’s a behavior rooted in their instinctual behaviors.
Dogs have a keen sense of taste and can detect different scents on their owners.
If you’ve recently handled food or put scented lotions and body washes on your skin, your dog may lick you to explore and taste those residual scents.
They also find the taste of your salty skin after a workout delicious and enjoyable, which is usually gross for us.
2. Health-Based Licking
Grooming Purposes
Licking is a natural grooming behavior for dogs. They use their tongues which contain some antibacterial properties to clean their fur and each other.
During your dog’s puppyhood, their mother licked them, expressing both affection and engaging in grooming.
Consequently, your golden retriever may have become accustomed to such behavior and will lick themselves as well.
Stress Indicator
Dogs may lick to self-soothe and calm themselves when stressed or anxious.
But have you ever thought why does my dog lick me excessively at night?
Well, changes in routine, new environments, or especially separation anxiety might cause your golden retriever to lick excessively, especially when they feel more vulnerable at night.
RECOMMENDED READING: Anxiety in Golden Retrievers: Symptoms, Causes, & Solutions
This licking is a coping mechanism that alleviates their anxiety and helps them feel more at ease.
Sign of Injury
Dogs have an instinct to lick their wounds as a way of promoting healing.
This behavior is a natural response to injuries, which can be anything from bumping into a table to cutting a paw on some thorns or post-surgery.
Their saliva has some antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that may aid in healing by fighting germs and disease.
3. Breed-Specific Licking Tendencies
Licking is a common behavior exhibited by many golden retrievers. They are known for certain tendencies related to licking.
Some breed-specific licking tendencies commonly observed in golden retrievers include licking for affection and bonding, communication, social grooming, attention-seeking, learned as a puppy behavior, or taste exploration.
Mouthing tendencies in retrievers, which involve the gentle holding of objects using their mouths, can indeed be connected to licking behaviors.
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Retrievers may use their mouths to show gentle affection, and licking is another expression of their desire for closeness and connection.
Mouthing can be a form of exploration and communication, and licking may accompany this behavior as another way to gather information or as an additional signal to convey their needs.
When engaging in play, golden retrievers may use their mouths to gently grasp objects, which can include licking as part of their playful interaction.
It serves as a way to express excitement and maintain a positive social environment.
Mouthing is a common puppy behavior, and if not discouraged, it may persist into their adult years.
RELATED: When Do Golden Retriever Puppies Stop Biting?
This behavior may coexist with licking as part of their natural interactions.
Why Do Golden Retrievers Lick Certain People or Times?
Licking in the Morning
Dogs are creatures of habit, and they often thrive on routines.
If your golden retriever has established a morning routine that includes licking as a form of greeting or interaction, they may continue this behavior as part of their daily ritual.
Dogs may get excited in the morning, anticipating the start of the day and potential activities.
Licking can be a manifestation of their excitement and eagerness to engage with you.
At night we secrete sweat and oils which may taste delicious to them. So they jump right at your face, trying to shower you with their affection.
If your dog wakes up with an empty stomach or is thirsty, they may use licking as a way to communicate their needs.
It could be their way of signaling that it’s time for breakfast or water.
RELATED: How Much Water Should a Golden Retriever Puppy Drink?
Licking After Eating
After eating, your golden retriever may engage in licking as a way to clean their face and mouth.
This is particularly common in breeds with facial hair or longer fur around the mouth.
Dogs have a keen sense of taste and smell, and licking after eating may be a way for your golden retriever to further explore and savor the taste and scent of the food they’ve just consumed.
If your goldie enjoys their meal, licking afterward may be a sign of satisfaction and pleasure, displaying their enjoyment of food.
Each dog is unique, and individual preferences and habits can contribute to post-meal licking.
Licking During Petting
Has this thought ever crossed your mind, why does my dog lick me when I pet her or him?
Your golden retriever may associate petting with positive feelings and reciprocate that affection by licking.
Licking can be a submissive behavior in dogs. Your dog may lick during petting to show trust and submission, acknowledging that they accept your presence and enjoy the interaction.
Golden retrievers are known for retaining puppy-like behaviors into adulthood.
In puppyhood, licking is a common way for dogs to communicate with their mothers and littermates.
Your adult golden retriever may continue this behavior during petting to express comfort and connection.
Licking during petting may allow your dog to explore your scent and taste further, reinforcing their connection with you.
Licking Themselves
Dogs, including golden retrievers, use licking as a natural grooming behavior.
Licking helps them keep their fur clean, remove loose hair, and maintain overall hygiene.
Dogs may lick themselves as a way to soothe irritated or itchy areas.
If your golden retriever is experiencing discomfort due to allergies, insect bites, dry skin, or minor injuries, they may use licking as a self-soothing mechanism.
Persistent licking in specific areas could be a sign of pain or discomfort. Your dog may be trying to alleviate discomfort caused by an injury, joint issues, or other health concerns.
Dogs may engage in excessive licking when they are bored or stressed.
If your golden retriever lacks mental and physical stimulation, they may resort to licking as a self-soothing behavior.
Why Does My Golden Retriever Lick Its Feet And Paws?
There are various reasons for why do golden retrievers lick their paws and feet.
Allergies, including environmental allergies (pollen, grass, mold) or food allergies, can lead to itching and discomfort.
Dogs often respond to the irritation by licking, and the paws are a common target.
If your golden retriever is licking its feet excessively, allergies could be a potential cause.
Contact with irritants, such as certain cleaning products, lawn chemicals, or even new carpeting, can irritate a dog’s paws.
Licking is a natural response to soothe the discomfort.
Harsh weather conditions, low humidity, or dehydration may contribute to dry skin.
Dry or irritated skin, especially in between the paw pads, can prompt licking.
Splinters, thorns, or other foreign objects can become lodged in the paws, causing discomfort. Dogs may lick their paws in an attempt to remove these objects.
Dogs may engage in excessive licking as a response to anxiety or stress, especially if your golden retriever is licking its paws in conjunction with other signs of stress, such as pacing or changes in behavior.
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Why Is My Dog Licking Excessively Suddenly?
Sudden and excessive licking can be a response to pain or discomfort.
Your golden retriever may be trying to soothe an injury, joint pain, or any other physical ailment.
Allergic reactions, whether to food, environmental factors (like pollen or certain cleaning products), or insect bites, can cause itching and prompt excessive licking.
Bacterial or yeast infections can lead to skin irritation and itching, prompting excessive licking.
Sudden changes in behavior, including excessive licking, can be a response to stress or anxiety.
Digestive problems or gastrointestinal discomfort can sometimes manifest as excessive licking as a way to cope with the discomfort.
Changes in weather, humidity levels, or exposure to certain substances can impact your dog’s skin. Dry or irritated skin may lead to excessive licking.
Dental issues, such as toothache or gum disease, can cause discomfort, leading to excessive licking.
When Licking Becomes a Problem
Although licking is a natural behavior for dogs, including golden retrievers, it can become a cause of concern due to the following reasons.
Anxiety-Related Licking
Anxiety-related licking can result in hair loss, redness, or irritation in the licked areas.
Constant licking can damage the skin, leading to hot spots or secondary infections.
When anxiety-related licking interferes with your golden retriever’s ability to engage in regular activities, such as eating, playing, or sleeping, it becomes problematic.
Disrupting normal routines or difficulty focusing on daily tasks may indicate a more serious issue.
Anxiety-related licking negatively impacts your dog’s overall quality of life, including their emotional well-being and social interactions.
If your golden retriever exhibits other signs of anxiety, such as pacing, excessive panting, trembling, or changes in appetite, it’s important to address the overall anxiety problem.
RELATED: Do Golden Retrievers Pant A Lot?
If you find it challenging to redirect or stop the licking behavior despite attempting various interventions, it may indicate a deeper anxiety issue.
Continuous licking may cause wounds, infections, or complications that require veterinary attention.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD licking involves repetitive, excessive, and uncontrollable licking that goes beyond normal grooming behavior.
OCD licking can lead to severe skin damage, open sores, and injuries.
Constant licking can cause hot spots, infections, and self-inflicted wounds, resulting in discomfort and potential health issues for your dog.
If OCD licking interferes with your golden retriever’s overall quality of life, affecting their ability to eat, sleep, play, or engage in normal activities, it becomes problematic.
The behavior may lead to a diminished quality of life for the dog.
Dogs with OCD licking may exhibit signs of distress or anxiety, such as restlessness, pacing, panting, or trembling.
Health Conditions Leading to Excessive Licking
Excessive licking in golden retrievers may be linked to various health conditions.
Common causes include:
- Allergies
- Skin infections
- Parasites
- Dry skin
- Pain or discomfort (orthopedic or gastrointestinal)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Neurological disorders
- Dental issues
How to Manage and Train Your Golden Retriever Against Excessive Licking?
Below are several ways to manage and stop your golden retriever’s excessive licking.
1. Rewarding Good Behavior
Reward your golden retriever with treats, praise, or affection when they exhibit calm behavior without excessive licking.
2. Ignoring This Behavior
One of the best ways to prevent your golden retriever from licking you is to simply ignore their behavior.
This teaches them that licking you or the things around them does not give them what they want.
Your lack of positive response discourages their licking behavior, they will stop and seek alternative ways to express affection.
3. Redirecting Attention
When you observe your golden retriever excessively licking, use distraction techniques to redirect their attention.
Offer a favorite toy, engage in interactive play, or introduce a puzzle feeder to provide mental stimulation.
4. Use of Verbal Commands
Teach basic commands such as “sit”, “stay”, or “leave it”.
Use these commands to redirect your dog’s attention when you notice them starting to lick excessively.
Consistent training reinforces positive behavior.
5. Identify Triggers
Observe your golden retriever to identify specific triggers for the excessive licking.
Note the situations, environments, or stimuli that lead to the behavior.
Understanding the triggers helps in developing targeted training strategies.
6. Offer Plenty of Mental and Physical Stimulation
Ensure your golden retriever receives adequate mental and physical stimulation.
Engage in regular play, provide interactive toys, and incorporate mental challenges to redirect their focus and energy in a positive way instead of licking.
7. Use of Taste Deterrents
Apply pet-safe bitter-tasting products to areas where your golden retriever tends to lick excessively.
Make sure the product is safe and approved for pets.
The unpleasant taste will discourage your dog from continuing licking behavior.
8. Calm Your Dog Down
Provide comfort to your golden retriever during stressful situations. This can include gentle petting, soothing words, or simply being present.
Also, create a calm and comfortable living space, and provide a designated area where your dog can retreat when they need to relax.
9. Address Anxiety and Stress
If anxiety or stress is a contributing factor, consider addressing these issues.
Gradual desensitization, behavior modification techniques, and providing a secure and predictable environment can help reduce stress.
10. Use Protective Barrier
If licking is focused on a specific injury or wound, consider using medical bandages or Elizabethan collars to prevent them from accessing these areas with their tongue.
Using a collar can aid in the healing process and discourage licking during recovery.
Choose the appropriate size of the collar to ensure it fits your golden retriever comfortably.
11. Seek Professional Help
If the excessive licking persists despite your efforts, consider seeking professional guidance from a certified animal behaviorist.
They can assess the behavior, develop a tailored training plan, and provide ongoing support.
Is It Safe for Dogs to Lick Human Faces?
Although the transmission of germs from a dog’s saliva to humans is rare.
However, there remains a possibility of it occurring.
Allowing dogs to lick human faces can pose hygiene risks due to bacteria, potential allergies, and the transmission of parasites.
Individuals who have a weakened immune system, have a newborn baby, or are allergic to dog saliva should refrain from allowing licks.
This precaution is important because specific germs and bacteria can be transmitted through a dog’s saliva.
Face licks from dogs with a tendency to consume their own or another animal’s poop should be avoided.
RELATED: Why Do Golden Retrievers Eat Poop?
To minimize risks, it’s advisable to wash your hands after handling your pet, ensure regular worming and flea treatments, remove pet feces promptly, avoid allowing pets to lick your face, especially around the mouth or any open wounds, and wash pet bedding regularly.
Conclusion
Golden retrievers lick so much because of various factors like affection, boredom, sensory exploration, attention-seeking, grooming purposes, stress, signs of injury, and breed-specific licking tendencies. It’s their normal behavior and not a cause for concern.
However, when licking becomes excessive due to medical issues, behavioral causes, environmental factors, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it needs to be addressed before it gets worse.
Manage and train your golden retriever to stop excessive licking with rewards, ignoring licking behavior, exercise, taste deterrents, addressing anxiety, and using protective barriers or seek professional help.
Check out these articles next to understand your golden retriever’s behavior better:
Why Do Golden Retrievers Bark So Much?
Why Do Golden Retrievers Paw at You?
Why Does My Golden Retriever Follow Me Everywhere?
Golden Retriever Snarling: Here’s Why and What to Do!
Why Does My Golden Retriever Eat Grass?