Dogs lick their owners for several instinctive and behavioral reasons. Primarily, it is a way for dogs to show affection, as licking releases feel- good endorphins that give them comfort, similar to when their mother licked them as puppies. Licking also serves as a form of communication and bonding. Additionally, dogs may lick to explore their environment through taste and smell, as licking enhances their sense of smell. Some dogs lick to get attention or as a way to seek comfort when feeling anxious or stressed. They might also lick because they like the salty taste of human skin or lotions on it. In some cases, excessive licking can indicate anxiety, boredom, or even a medical issue like pain or obsessive-compulsive disorder, but normal licking is often just a sign of love and social bonding between the dog and its owner.
