When a dog licks your face, it can mean several things depending on context. Primarily, it is often a sign of affection and bonding , as dogs naturally lick their puppies for grooming and connection, so licking humans can be similar, showing love and trust. Dogs also lick faces as an appeasement gesture to express friendliness and non-threat, and to seek attention or communicate emotions. Additionally, licking releases endorphins in dogs, making it pleasurable for them and sometimes a self-soothing behavior especially in stressful situations. Dogs may also lick your face because of the taste or smell, such as food residue or the scent of skin products. Sometimes, it can be linked to instinctual behaviors related to wild canids, like stimulating regurgitation or grooming. Overall, face licking is a complex way dogs use to communicate and interact with humans, often with positive social or emotional intent.
