XOXO: What You Need To Know About Kissing Your Dog

There's no doubt we love our dogs. Very much so that we go to extra lengths to give them comfort, affection, and even doggy kisses. But what most pet owners fail to remember is that even a sweet dog kiss can bring more than just slobber, it can carry germs, bacteria, and potential health risks.

In this post, we talk about dogs kissing, why they do it, and what you should consider before leaning in for a smooch.

Why dogs lick or kiss: Behavior explained

As with many quirky behaviors, licking is an instinctual means of communication for many animals. Wolves and wild dogs allow puppies to lick their face as a sign of immaturity. This action may encourage a mother dog to regurgitate her meal and feed her pups. Often, when domestic dogs lick us, it is a remnant of this submissive behavior. 

Dogs may lick us for other reasons, too, though. These can include:

• Anxiety

• Endorphin release

• They like how you taste

• As a means to get what they want

• Obsessive compulsive and other mental disorders

Chances are that your dog isn’t really “kissing” you when he comes in with the tongue; it’s more likely that licking is just a harmless, instinctual doggy behavior. If it seems to be obsessive, however, it may be worth letting us know so that we can be sure there is not a deeper medical problem at play.

Kissing your dog can give you more than affection

You may be wondering how safe kissing your dog really is. If you choose to smooch your pooch, keep in mind that, despite popular belief, your pet’s mouth is most definitely not cleaner than your own. It doesn’t take too much creativity to think about where your dog’s tongue has been recently and why you might not want it in your mouth.

That being said, the bacteria that reside in a dog’s mouth are probably no big deal for most people’s immune systems. You may think twice if you are immunocompromised for any reason, though. Salmonella infections, as well as several intestinal parasites, could potentially be swapped this way.

Likewise, you may want to be sure that your pet’s dental health is in check before you allow this type of interaction. Dental disease can greatly increase the number of bacteria in your pet’s mouth, contributing to that dreaded doggy breath.

It is also important to remember that any dog (yes, even your beloved pooch) could potentially bite or nip under the right circumstances. It is smart to think carefully before letting him or her get so close to your face.

Give dog kisses responsibly

At the end of the day, sharing affection with your dog is part of the joy of being a pet owner. But when it comes to kissing dogs, a little discretion can go a long way.

Billings Animal Family Hospital is all about loving our pets, but there are also some good reasons to limit licking when possible. Use your discretion when kissing your dog, but certainly don’t hesitate to love on your pet whenever the mood strikes you.

Frequently asked questions 

What does it mean when a dog gives kisses?

Dogs kissing humans is often a sign of affection or submission. It's also a way for them to explore using taste and smell. While it may feel sweet, dogs may not fully understand what a kiss means the way humans do.

Is it normal for dogs to kiss each other?

Yes, dog kissing dog behavior is common and part of social bonding. It’s often a calming signal or a way to show submission. 

Should I let my dog kiss me?

That depends on your comfort level and health. While kissing your dog can feel loving, keep in mind that germs can be passed through saliva, especially when kissing dogs on the mouth. If you're immunocompromised or concerned about hygiene, it may be best to avoid kissing a dog on the lips.