02/18/2026
It could mean:
“I love you.”
“You’re my safe place.”
“That lotion smells like a snack.”
“I’m a little anxious.”
From the time they’re newborns, puppies use licking to bond with their mama and littermates. It releases calming hormones — oxytocin, the same bonding hormone that flows between mothers and babies.
Science backs this up: interaction with dogs has been shown to increase oxytocin in both humans and dogs. That little tongue? It’s not random. It’s relational.
However, excessive licking is often a nervous system clue. Overstimulation, stress, allergies, or even gut imbalance can show up as constant licking.
Share in the comments, are you yay or nay on doggy kisses?