Why Does My Shiba Inu Lick Me So Much? Decoding Shiba Inu Puppy Licking
If you’re a Shiba Inu puppy owner, you might find yourself frequently bathed in puppy kisses! You might be wondering, “Why does my Shiba Inu lick me so much?” Puppy licking is a common behavior, and with Shiba Inus, it can stem from a variety of reasons, ranging from affection to communication and even grooming. Understanding Shiba Inu puppy licking behavior can help you interpret what your Shiba is trying to tell you.
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Reasons Behind Shiba Inu Puppy Licking
- Affection and Bonding: Licking is often a sign of affection in dogs. Your Shiba Inu puppy might be licking you to show you they love you and are bonded to you. This is a positive sign of your growing relationship. Learn more about Shiba Inu puppy bonding.
- Grooming and Social Bonding: In the dog world, licking is also a form of social grooming. Your Shiba Inu puppy might be licking you as a way to groom you and strengthen your social bond, just like dogs groom each other. Remember Shiba Inus are known for their cleanliness.
- Attention-Seeking: Puppies quickly learn that licking gets your attention. If you react (even negatively) when they lick you, they might continue to do it to get your attention again.
- Taste and Exploration: Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Your skin tastes salty, and your Shiba Inu puppy might simply be exploring your taste and texture.
- Submissive Behavior: Licking can sometimes be a submissive signal in dogs. A puppy might lick you to show you they recognize you as the “leader” and are being submissive.
- Anxiety or Stress: In some cases, excessive licking can be a sign of anxiety or stress. If your puppy is licking themselves, objects, or you excessively and seems anxious or restless, consider if your Shiba Inu puppy is prone to anxiety.
- Medical Reasons (Less Common): Rarely, excessive licking can be related to underlying medical issues, such as allergies, skin problems, or nausea. If the licking is sudden, excessive, and accompanied by other symptoms, consult your veterinarian.
Understanding the Context of Puppy Licking
To understand why your Shiba Inu puppy is licking you, consider the context:
- When do they lick? Is it when you pet them, when you come home, when they are seeking attention, or at other specific times?
- What are they licking? Are they licking your face, hands, feet, or other parts of your body? Are they licking objects or themselves?
- What is their body language? Is their body language relaxed and happy, or do they seem anxious or stressed? Understanding Shiba Inu puppy behavior in general will help you interpret licking.
Managing Shiba Inu Puppy Licking
- If you enjoy it (and it’s not excessive): If you don’t mind the licking and it’s clearly affectionate and not excessive, you can allow it in moderation.
- If it’s excessive or unwanted:
- Redirection: If your puppy starts licking excessively, redirect their attention to a toy or a chew. Redirection is a key discipline method for Shiba Inus, as discussed in Disciplining a Shiba Inu Puppy.
- Ignore Attention-Seeking Licking: If they are licking for attention, try to ignore it. Only give them attention when they stop licking.
- Provide Alternatives: Ensure your puppy has plenty of appropriate chew toys and outlets for their licking and chewing instincts. Also, ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related licking.
- Teach “Enough” or “Off”: You can train a verbal cue like “Enough” or “Off” to signal to your puppy to stop licking. Use positive reinforcement to reward them when they stop on command. Best way to train a Shiba Inu puppy methods apply here.
- Consult a Vet if Concerned: If you are worried about excessive licking, especially if it’s sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical issues.
In Conclusion Licking is Communication
Shiba Inu puppy licking is usually a normal behavior with various underlying reasons, often related to affection, grooming, and communication. By understanding the context and managing it appropriately, you can enjoy the puppy kisses (if you like them!) and address any excessive or unwanted licking habits.
Does your Shiba Inu puppy lick you a lot? What do you think they are trying to say? Share your thoughts in the comments below!