Why Do Dogs Try To Lick Wounds. Dogs lick their wounds because dogs are deprived from the hands-on dexterity humans are blessed with. Some do it simply because of the comfort it brings like a young boy who gets hurt thinks the best cure just may be a kiss after all. Many dogs will lick their owners wounds probably do so for the same reason they lick their own wounds. Proteins known as histatins and nerve growth factor expedite wound healing.
There may even be a little bit of nurturing behavior involved too as dogs often lick to show affection or concern. Which aid a dog in both cleaning their wounds and to promote healing. The act of licking wounds is an instinctive behavior that is common among most canids including dogs. The enzymes in dog saliva help destroy the cell walls of dangerous bacteria. Some do it simply because of the comfort it brings like a young boy who gets hurt thinks the best cure just may be a kiss after all. Why Do Dogs Lick Human Wounds.
Dogs lick their own wounds because their saliva has antimicrobial and clotting properties.
Plus there is some evidence that dogs saliva has antiseptic properties which aid in healing the wound. A dog treats his wounds by licking them. All of this helps explain. Licking wounds seems an instinctual reaction to the injury. Thats all they can do. Is it OK to let a dog lick your wounds.