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Teresa Ford · 11-19-2011, 07:34 AM

Why Do They LICK So Much ?
Trainers study behavior and I have studied licking. I know we have to train therapy dogs NOT to lick. This is my personal thoughts about licking. 1. Affection, short little licks, show affection 2. Excitement, Rapid excited licking, is to calm down. We have trained our Yorkies that friendly nipping and mouthing is not acceptable. Some dogs will grab a toy to control this nipping behavior. 3. Grooming, Slow leisurely licking is mutual grooming behavior. They are grooming you, they can not hold a comb or brush, you but they can lick you. Some trainers call this parenting behavior. Both male and female dogs lick puppies and other dogs. 4.Ownership, Claiming licks are different in the tempo and manner. Often the dog will put both paws on the person claiming them and will sometimes jump to get to the face area. I have noticed that dogs who are allowed to do this claiming type licking may growl and even bite if interrupted. And they don't want others to show or get affection with their person. 5. Appeasement Licking is similar to what small puppies do to show they are humble and friendly. Sometime this type of licking is accompanied by submissive posture and even belly up position. 6. Enough Kisses is a gently spoken cue for them to stop licking. It is important to end the licking on your terms. I am surprised that people often bulk at this simple discipline. It is mentally healthy for your dog to know when enough is, is enough. Sometimes I can almost 'see' a dog sigh in relief when told Enough Kisses.

11-19-2011, 07:34 AM	#9
Teresa Ford Therapy Yorkies Work Donating Member Join Date: May 2011 Location: Central, Florida Posts: 3,863	Why Do They LICK So Much ? Trainers study behavior and I have studied licking. I know we have to train therapy dogs NOT to lick. This is my personal thoughts about licking. 1. Affection, short little licks, show affection 2. Excitement, Rapid excited licking, is to calm down. We have trained our Yorkies that friendly nipping and mouthing is not acceptable. Some dogs will grab a toy to control this nipping behavior. 3. Grooming, Slow leisurely licking is mutual grooming behavior. They are grooming you, they can not hold a comb or brush, you but they can lick you. Some trainers call this parenting behavior. Both male and female dogs lick puppies and other dogs. 4.Ownership, Claiming licks are different in the tempo and manner. Often the dog will put both paws on the person claiming them and will sometimes jump to get to the face area. I have noticed that dogs who are allowed to do this claiming type licking may growl and even bite if interrupted. And they don't want others to show or get affection with their person. 5. Appeasement Licking is similar to what small puppies do to show they are humble and friendly. Sometime this type of licking is accompanied by submissive posture and even belly up position. 6. Enough Kisses is a gently spoken cue for them to stop licking. It is important to end the licking on your terms. I am surprised that people often bulk at this simple discipline. It is mentally healthy for your dog to know when enough is, is enough. Sometimes I can almost 'see' a dog sigh in relief when told Enough Kisses. __________________ Teresa & Rubin, Gracie, Abba, Ginny Joy and Julia Rose Act like a dog, be kind, forgiving, and loyal. Last edited by Teresa Ford; 11-19-2011 at 07:35 AM.