Why Do Dogs Lick Your Feet? 11 Surprising Reasons

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Why do dogs lick your feet?” only to be met with a slobbery greeting from your furry friend? 

Well, I am glad that you are here because I am about to answer this seemingly simple, yet intriguing question. 

Canine behavior can get pretty weird, with lots of questions that often leave even the most experienced dog owners scratching their heads. 

As you may have imagined, a dog’s every lick, nibble, and slobber is packed with meaning. 

In this article, we’ll explore 11 surprising reasons why your canine companion might be so fascinated with your feet. 

So, without further ado, let’s find out why dogs lick their owner’s feet!

1. Desire for Attention

As you’re stepping through the door after a long day, you are greeted not by barks or jumps, but by a heartfelt lick! Uhmm, what? Why the feet, though? 

First and foremost, let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the dog in the living room. 

These creatures are social butterflies, craving attention like it’s the last bone on earth. Take my good friend’s Chow Chow, for instance, a furry shadow constantly in pursuit of a pat, following his owner everywhere. And licking his feet!

Dogs have a keen sense of smell, and your feet, with all their day-long adventures, are almost impossible for your canine companion to ignore. 

But it’s not just about that. Dogs are intelligent, observant beings. They quickly learn that licking, especially those ticklish feet, often results in an avalanche of reactions from their humans. 

So, it can be laughter, cuddles, or even the occasional “ew, stop,” – all positive attention in the eyes of your pup. 

That said, this behavior isn’t just about the joy of taste or smell. It’s all about connection. 

Through licking, your dog is trying to communicate their affection and need for companionship. So, you better give your dog attention!

2. Expression of Affection

From the moment they’re born, puppies experience the gentle touch of their mother’s tongue. This is a sign of cleanliness and care that doubles as the first language of love they come to know.

As these pups grow, this love language extends to you, their favorite human. It’s simply their way of solidifying that you’re indeed part of their cherished pack! 

I mean, instead of asking why does my dog lick my feet, you may as well ask why does my dog love me? That is pretty much the same! 

Both young and old, dogs carry this type of affection. It is the same affection you get when they lick your face or put their paw on you!

Something you might not be aware of is when you respond to their licks with pets and cuddles, you’re essentially teaching them that this is the way to ask for love. 

It’s sort of like a cycle of give and take. By behaving like this, you are reinforcing their affectionate licks as a plea for attention. 

Love it or hate it, you may have unconsciously taught your dog to ask/show affection this way!

3. Signs of Anxiety

Have you ever noticed your dog licks feet when you least expect it? Sure, it might just be their way of showing affection, but sometimes, it’s a sign of something more – like anxiety. 

Dogs, much like humans, experience anxiety for different reasons.

Separation anxiety tops the list, especially if your dog starts following you around the house more often than usual. He may be fearing you might vanish into thin air again and never come back. 

This type of anxiety often leads to a range of weird behaviors, including those heartfelt, yet anxious and quick licks to your feet. Surprisingly, some dogs may indulge in eating their own poop as a sign of anxiety! Icky, right?

If you are not sure whether your dog is doing this out of anxiety, take a look at some other symptoms that may accompany such behavior: 

• Obsessive licking – not just your feet, but licking their paws or objects around the house
• Pacing or restlessness – unable to settle down, constantly moving about
• Whining or barking – especially when it seems out of character or excessive
• Shivering – even when it’s not cold
• Hiding or avoiding contact – if your once sociable pup is suddenly hiding
• Decreased appetite – turning their nose up at treats or meals they usually love
• Destructive behavior – such as chewing on furniture or digging at doors and floors

Additionally, understanding the body language of an anxious dog can also provide insights. An anxious dog might have a lowered posture, ears pinned back, or even exhibit submissive urination.

So, if you spot such signs that indicate doggy anxiety, consider how you can take appropriate action to help ease your dog’s stress.

4. They Like The Taste

Human skin secretes sweat and oils, which contains salt. And yes, your sweaty feet are no exception. 

But, the allure of your feet, from a dog’s perspective, goes beyond the mere taste of salty sweat. 

The salty taste of your skin can be intriguing to them, and perhaps a bit addictive. Dogs have a keen sense of taste and an even more impressive sense of smell. 

That said, your feet, with their sweaty appeal, offer a distinct flavor profile your pup is naturally curious about. 

This curiosity is backed by their impressive nasal cavity, capable of detecting the slightest nuances in scent. This is enhanced further by the Jacob’s organ, which bridges the gap between smell and taste.

5. Psychological Stress

Dogs, much like their human counterparts, can experience psychological stress. Licking – be it their own feet or your feet – can be a manifestation of their attempt to cope.

Boredom, for example, can lead to physiological stress. 

A dog without enough to do is a recipe for mischief or, in this case, obsessive licking. This particular problem can emerge as a self-entertainment strategy for dogs lacking adequate physical or mental stimulation. 

When dogs are in a stressful situation and don’t know how to react, they may start to lick as a displacement behavior. This may be an alternative option if flight or fight are not it. 

If you notice that the feet licking habit becomes compulsive or is accompanied by other signs of distress, seeking advice from a veterinarian or a dog behaviorist is a wise move. 

6. Exploring Different Tastes

With the use of tongues, mouths and noses, dogs understand their surroundings better. This is a bit like how we use our hands and eyes to navigate our environment. Perfectly normal behaviour!

And, here is something you might find disgusting, but it can be the case. 

Our skin, particularly around the feet, can often carry traces of our meals or the different environments we’ve walked through.

To a dog, with their incredibly refined sense of smell, these residues are very appealing. 

So, the act of licking simply allows them to taste these intriguing flavors. Watch out if your dog has food allergies though, you don’t want those foods (or any) on your feet! 

Another reason could be that you may have some open wounds on your feet and your dog is trying to clean them up by giving them a quick lick!

Some dogs might lick your feet because they are marking you with their scent. Clever, isn’t it?

I think we can all agree that for dogs, licking stuff around them (including your feet) is just an essential tool for sensory exploration and bonding. 

7. Seeking Comfort

Licking is a natural behavior dogs use from an early age. Mother dogs lick their puppies to clean them and stimulate their bodily functions. Puppies lick their mothers and siblings as part of bonding. 

So, when your dog licks your feet, it can be an extension of this ingrained behavior. The pup is simply showing affection and strengthening the bond between you two!

Especially in moments of insecurity or distress. 

The act of licking your feet allows them to bridge any emotional distance and feel close to us.

Yep, those gentle licks could be your furry friend’s way of coping with feelings of nervousness or stress. Think of it as their kind of soothing behaviour and stress release. 

The release of endorphins during these moments not only calms them but also makes them happy and calm. 

You can also think of it in another way. The repetitive motion of licking, the focus it demands, and the sensory feedback it provides may serve as a therapeutic outlet for your pup. 

8. Personal Grooming Habits

Have you ever wondered if your dog is aspiring to be your personal groomer? While it might sound like a silly little thought, you might not be too far off the mark. 

Dogs have an instinctual drive for grooming – not just themselves, but you too. This behavior is their way of taking care of those they consider part of their pack. So, good news, you are part of the pack!

The scent of sweat on your feet after a long day is like a flashing neon sign that says “Grooming needed!” 

So, to your dog, licking off the sweat (and let’s be honest, whatever else you’ve stepped in) is their way of helping you stay clean and comfortable.

9. Habitual Behavior

As we’ve touched upon earlier in this article, dogs’ need for licking our feet can stem from different reasons, ranging from seeking comfort to exploring tastes. 

Yet, there’s another layer to this behavior that’s worth a deeper exploration: the development of habitual licking. 

Dogs are creatures of habit. If your pup is used to licking your feet at certain times of the day, like before bed or right after you come home, it can become a part of their daily routine.

Now, you might be the cause of the problem here. You see, the path to habitual behavior is often paved with our reactions to our dogs’ actions.

A dog doesn’t just decide to make licking a habit out of the blue. This is a behavior that’s shaped over time by the feedback they receive. 

So, if a dog learns that a quick lick results in affectionate petting or a cheerful compliment, they’re getting a clear message. You didn’t give them negative attention, but a positive response. 

This positive reinforcement makes the act of licking more appealing, and they continue to do it. 

10. Pure Curiosity

There is not denying that dogs are naturally curious little creatures who will stick their noses and mouth wherever they can.

While this can lead them to some potential risks in the great outdoors. However, I believe there are no dangers when it comes to your feet and your dog’s health.

Now, this natural curiosity drives them to lick various things, including our feet, to get a taste of everything life has to offer.  

If your dog stares at you and goes straight to licking your feet, this could be their kind of a communication tool. An invitation for a play, perhaps. Or simply a curious gesture.

If you’ve changed your diet, started using a new skincare product, or walked somewhere unusual, your dog may notice the difference through their sense of smell and lick your feet more intensively. 

This increased licking is their way of investigating these changes, all driven by curiosity.

11. Act Of Submission

Believe it or not, but a dog licking their owner’s feet can also be an act of submission.

As with previously described inherited traits, such behavior is rooted deeply in dog social dynamics and communication. 

In the wild or in domestic settings where multiple dogs live together, they often establish a social hierarchy. 

Submissive dogs will lick the mouths of more dominant dogs as a gesture of respect and acknowledgment of the other dog’s higher status. This behavior is observed in wolves and is carried over to domestic dogs. Interesting, right?

What could be more interesting is that the dog sees you as another being of higher status. You play a crucial role in their life which is why they indulge in licking your feet. 

Feet licking can also be a dog’s way of showing deference to you to avoid confrontation or to appease them if they believe they’ve done something wrong. 

This is very pronounced with dog owners who treat their dogs harshly (punishing them after they did something bad). 

Should You Let Your Dog Lick Your Feet?

At face value, a dog licking your feet is often a sign of love and affection, a way for them to show they care and feel connected to you.

So, if you’re wondering whether it’s all good in that sense, the answer is generally yes.

However, as with all things, there are important considerations to keep in mind. 

For starters, while the act of licking can be a harmless sign of affection, it’s essential to be aware of potential health issues. 

Both you and your furry companion could be at risk if there are open wounds involved. Your skin might be carrying bacteria that, while harmless to you, could affect your dog.
Conversely, their saliva could introduce bacteria to your open wounds.

So, the answer in this case is no. 

How Can I Stop My Dog From Licking My Feet? 

First, try to understand why your dog is licking your feet. Is it seeking attention, licking out of boredom, showing affection, or perhaps submission? The underlying cause will then dictate the most effective solution.

Steer Your Dog’s Focus Elsewhere 

Deter your dog from your feet. Offer them alternative ways to satisfy their licking urge. Think of things that dogs love, like squeaky toys, chew toys, lick mats, and puzzle feeders. 

These toys can keep your dog mentally stimulated and physically occupied, reducing the likelihood of them turning to your feet for entertainment.

Train Your Dog Voice Commands

Train your dog with a command that means “stop” or “leave it.” Use this command consistently whenever they start to lick your feet. 

Remember to use positive reinforcement and reward them with a treat or affection when they obey. 

Teaching your dogs commands is useful in many other situations too!

Ignore Them 

Simply ignore them! Yes, you read that right. 

Do not react verbally or physically when they start licking. 

Withdraw your feet gently without making a fuss. With time, your dog should learn that licking doesn’t get your attention. 

No negative attention, no positive attention, nothing!

Consult A Dog Behaviourist

If your dog’s foot-licking habit becomes a frequent headline in your daily canine show, it might be time to consult a dog behaviourist. 

They can offer communication tools and strategies to redirect this behavior to more appropriate outlets.

The good news is, with a bit of attention and care, the occasional foot-licking episode can simply be a part of your dog’s way of expressing affection. 

Keeping an eye on the context and frequency of the licking can help ensure that this behavior remains just a silly part of your relationship rather than a health concern.