Dog is Obsessed with Licking & Smelling Your Feet – Top 3 Reasons Why

In most cases, there isn’t much to worry about if you have a dog that enjoys licking your feet. It does, however, become a concern if the dog licks your feet excessively or the licking is accompanied by concerning symptoms or unusual changes in your dog’s behavior. Here are the most common reasons for dogs that like to lick their owner’s feet.

1. Your dog likes the taste of your feet

This might sound gross but dogs are strange animals. Some dogs may lick your feet because they like the taste of them. It might be all the sweat that has built up after walking all day long. The dog might also be attracted by unique scents from your feet, especially if you were walking in a grassy area or if you were walking in flip flops.

2. Dog is alleviating stress

Licking is one way for dogs to alleviate stress and anxiety. It could be soothing for your dog to lick you and the feet just happens to be the most accessible part. Studies have shown that the act of licking helps release endorphins that makes the dog feel calmer and more relaxed. Think back to the last few times your dog licked your feet. You may notice a pattern. The dog perhaps licks your feet at night before you go to bed or they lick your feet just before you head off to work.

3. Social grooming

Some dogs like to groom others in the pack. This is referred to as social grooming. Dogs will groom one another through licking. It’s not just to keep others clean so don’t take offend if your dog is licking your clean feet! Social grooming also serves a purpose of improving family bonds. Take it as a sign that your dog is building trust.