Why Do Dogs Sometimes Lick Strangers?

Have you ever been welcomed by an eager dog lick, despite just meeting them? While this can catch you off guard, this action is deeply tied to their natural instincts and unique social habits.

To begin with, licking is a primary method dogs use to explore their surroundings. Similar to how we might greet with a handshake, dogs use licking as a way to say “hello” and to learn “who are you?” simultaneously. It’s a sensory experience, letting them detect your scent, taste, and even your mood. If a dog licks you, it may be their way of gathering details and understanding who you are, particularly when you’re new in their world.

In the canine community, licking is also a social cue. Within packs, licking each other’s faces might indicate respect or a gentle request for social acceptance. When a dog licks a stranger, it’s often a sign of friendliness—like saying, “I’m okay with you; let’s be pals.” Dogs value social bonds, and sometimes licking is their approach to building a connection, even with someone they’ve just met.

There’s also the matter of scents and tastes we carry—lotions, perfumes, or hints of food we’ve touched. Dogs have an innate curiosity about these aromas, and a taste might help them explore further.

So if a dog licks you right away, consider it a compliment! They’re expressing not just friendliness but also an interest in understanding you better. It’s their way of inviting you into their world, even if only briefly.