Why Do Dogs Lick Your Face When You Lay Down. And if your dog licks other parts of your face wash the saliva off with soap and water afterward. Face feet and hands whether we should let them and ways to stop them if you have your boss coming over for dinner and slobber really shouldnt be on the menu. The dog doing the licking usually lowers its body to make itself smaller and looks up adding to the effect of subordinate behavior. It could be compared to the very same feeling and sense of security a child has when their parents hug or kiss them.
You should also wash your hands right after a dog licks them or at least before touching your face and eating since this is another way that pathogens can enter your body. Puppies also do this with other dominant pack members. Beta dogs are strong dogs in the wolf pack and ready to take over for the alpha at any time. But why do dogs lick your face. It could be compared to the very same feeling and sense of security a child has when their parents hug or kiss them. When your dog licks your face he may be communicating that he acknowledges you as the dominant pack leader.
Siblings lick each other to communicate their friendliness more submissive dogs will do this to more dominant friends.
Wild dogs use face licking to communicate respect for and submission to their pack leader. If you have a particularly nervous dog they may often lick your face to display their submission. Some dogs lick their humans faces because its a habit or because they like the way their owners taste but doggie kisses are often a sign of affection and a good indication your dog thinks of you as family. In some cases they may lick to cheer you up when you are sick or sad. Pack theory has been disproved in dogs and wild wolves. When dogs lick you their brains release endorphins or happiness hormones which calms them down and reassures them.