For this reason, at mundoAnimalia we want to collect the possible benefits and risks that this innocent act may entail.
Benefits of letting your dog lick your face
- Reduce allergies
Being in frequent contact with animals has been shown to be good for the immune system. Children who grow up in the company of a pet are less likely to develop respiratory allergies . Therefore, those licks can be very positive for health.
- Set the roles of leader and follower
For a dog licking is something instinctive that is in its nature. In fact, it is common in packs of coyotes and wolves for followers to lick the boss as a show of respect. If your dog licks you, he is showing you that knowing that you are the boss.
- Reduce stress
Dogs often lick their owners when they have not seen them for a long time. For them it is a way to release stress and tension. In fact, not letting them do it can cause them to end up licking the walls, cushions, etc.
- It makes us happy
Receiving the affection and love of an animal releases dopamine and serotonin, which immediately makes us feel happier.
Drawbacks of letting your dog lick your face
- Risk of infections
The mouth is always a risk of infection and the same thing happens in dogs. Through their saliva, different bacterial infections can reach you, which can generate from gingivitis to tuberculosis in the most serious cases.
- Food poisoning
Dogs can put practically anything in their mouths, no matter how much we control them. So your saliva can cause a food poisoning as well known as salmonella.
- It can bite you
We generally don’t know dogs as well as we think we do. If the dog is not ours, licking should be avoided, since you can never be sure what the dog really wants, and if you bring his face close you could scare him and take a bite.
In short, there is no agreement on the subject and it is clear that it has both its advantages and disadvantages. If you want to enjoy the benefits of your dog licking you and avoid the drawbacks, it is best to let him lick you but not to do it to your face. Let it do it by hand for example and wash it immediately afterwards.
