What does it mean when dogs lick us?

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LuckyRed

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Hi Guys

I adopted a rescue beagle x Korthals pointer earlier this year and he is very shy and timid - I don't think he was played by humans and isn't even very sure about playing with other dogs.

He's gradually getting better but has recently started licking my legs or arms is a quiet sort of way - is this a good sign that he is starting to trust me or a bad thing? Its taken a lot to build up anything like a bond between us and I don't want to jeopardise is, but I'd also rather not be licked by the same mouth that was just eating horse poo or licking his bits!

Some people say it's just him learnign to trust me, or realising his place beneath me in our wierd little pack (me, him and 2 cats!) - others say it's dominance and should be stopped

Any suggestions?
 
It's nothing to do with dominance or him knowing his place in the pack because the pack theory is bs.

Its comforting, you taste good could be any number of things.
 
As Katielou said really. Certainly seems to release endorphins for them i some way.

Also if you have just put moisturiser on you may taste good too!

I would certainly not take it as a negative sign though.
 
Because we taste nice :p :)

I do believe certain dogs like to dominate other dogs and people, but it is not as common as people believe and if every little character trait that is put down to dominance, actually WAS down to dominance, then dogs would be ruling the world by now!
 
my pup licks my other dog too on the muzzle.
and me all day if i let him! i think its partly cause i taste good and also he's so soppy and in your face! also if i go up to him and say 'kisses' he gives me a lot on the place i've offered to him. always my hand! :rolleyes:
 
My dogs will sometimes lick my arms if I taste salty but another one who has learnt to put face/body cream AWAY from the staffie BT.. my expensive creams obviously taste lovely!
 
dunno, my dog would like to lick me but has been discouraged due to the horse poo and licking bits comments made earlier.
When you stroke him he sticks his tounge out but my brothers dog will lick you as soon as you are within licking distancebut her fave thing is licking the cats face and has recently started licking the sheeps face :confused:
 
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