Why do dogs give "kisses?"
By quatelmon
@quatelmon (955)
United States
January 22, 2007 7:39am CST
I have read in many places that dogs give "kisses" (licking) because us humans react in a positive way to it. However, even when I try to discourage my dog from giving me kisses, he just loves to give them to everyone! Does anyone else have any idea as to why dogs do this?
1 person likes this
3 responses
@feelinggood (217)
• Canada
22 Jan 07
Licking, ( kisses ) especially around the face, mouth and hands, is a submissive behavior in dogs. Watch dogs in a pack, and you will see that they do this to the Alpha. Your dogs sees you and everyone else, as having a higher place in the pack, than he does.
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@quatelmon (955)
• United States
22 Jan 07
Ah yes, I have heard that before. Then again, I've also heard a lot of new information about dogs and packs, and that they are very very different from their ancestors. It does make sense, though. I guess that if he's seeing me as alpha and showing respect through submission, he is really showing me love. Hehe. Thank you for your input!
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@feelinggood (217)
• Canada
22 Jan 07
Yes, he loves you, and trusts you to be leader of his pack. The alpha dog always does what's best for the pack.
@yorb24 (2179)
• United States
22 Jan 07
Wow I've never really thought about it that much. I thought they did it to show their affection to a human. My younger dog only really licks people in our immediate family while my older dog, doesn't lick anyone at all. They have very different personalities. The younger one is extremely emotional.
@quatelmon (955)
• United States
22 Jan 07
Isn't it funny how their personalities can differ sooo much, just like people. It keeps things interesting in my house, that's for sure!
@XxAngelxX (2830)
• Canada
22 Jan 07
I read somewhere that it has to do with the salt on our skin. I don't know if this is true or not, but I have noticed my dog prefers to "kiss" some people more than others. That's a great question and I'll be interested in seeing the responses people put up. I've never really thought about it, but now I'm curious, lol.
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