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Dogs are known for some strange behaviors! These include rear scooting, eating things they shouldn’t, and licking! Some dogs even seem intent on licking their pet parents’ eyes! Can this be dangerous for the dog or their pet parent?
Has your dog licked your eye? Are you worried that you or your dog could get sick from this? If so, then you’ve come to the right spot. We understand it can be concerning when a dog does something like this.
In this article, we’ll take a look at why dogs may lick your eyes and whether or not this practice can make you or your dog sick. Let’s get started!
Why Do Dogs Lick Our Eyes?
There are many reasons that your canine companion may want to lick your eyes! Here are some of the most common reasons a dog may lick your eyes:
Grooming: Some dogs have a strong urge to groom their pet parents. This could be because of the dog’s deep attachment. This may be the dog’s way of taking care of their pet parents and making sure they’re clean. After all, mutual grooming is a strong bonding mechanism between dogs!
Attention Seeking: It could be your dog is trying to get your attention. A dog that feels like he’s not getting enough love and attention may use this as a means to gain your attention fast! This could be due to separation anxiety, loneliness if the dog hasn’t been played with enough, and more.
Salty tears: If you’re crying, your dog may lick your eyes to get the salt in your tears. That’s because our tears contain a high amount of salt. Some dogs really love salt! Other times, your dog may realize that you’re upset in some way. He may try to lick your eyes to get rid of the tears and show you some love and affection. This is his way of trying to cheer you up.
Medical issues: Your dog may also have an underlying health issue that causes him to lick your tears. This can include anything such as allergies. Some dogs also have a condition that causes them to lick obsessively. They may lick themselves, surfaces around the house, or even you and your eyes.
Show affection: dogs often lick their pet parents to show affection, and this could be the reason your fur baby is licking your eyes. When your dog licks your eyes, oxytocin (a hormone that helps humans and animals form connections) is released in your fur baby’s brain. This makes him feel happy!
Boredom: dogs that don’t receive enough exercise each day may also start licking you and other things, including your eyes.
Becoming acquainted: another reason your dog may lick your eyes is to get acquainted with you. Dogs use their mouths to learn about their environment. If you meet a new dog, he may lick your face and eyes as a way to get acquainted.
Instinct: in the wild, pups from wolves and other canines lick their mothers’ mouths. They do this to gain information and to see if there is food caught in their mouths (that they can eat). Domestic dogs also use this behavior, so your dog could be following his natural instincts when he licks your eyes.
Can a Dog Licking Your Eyes Be Dangerous?
Yes, a dog licking your eyes can be dangerous. It’s usually more dangerous to you, however. That’s because the dog’s mouth may contain harmful bacteria that could lead to an infection. While this is rare, it has been known to happen.
And if your eye has been injured and has medication on it, this can also make the dog sick.
However, in most cases, you and your dog should be OK. Still, it’s best to discourage your dog from licking your eyes in order to prevent infections and other problems.
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Ask a Vet Live NowPrevent Eye-Licking in Your Dog
Because your fur baby licking your eyes can potentially cause you health issues, it’s best to not let your dog lick your eyes. It’s best to teach him to not use this behavior.
Using positive reinforcement training methods can help; however, in some situations, it may be necessary to work with a professional dog trainer to solve this problem.
However, if he continues to lick your face and eyes, it’s best to get an appointment with your vet. They can determine if there’s an underlying health issue that may be causing this problem.
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Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS
This article has been reviewed and approved by an independent Veterinarian: Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a post graduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.
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