Bulldogs are known for their affectionate and unique personalities, often displaying quirky behaviours that leave their owners both entertained and curious. One such common habit is excessive licking. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does my bulldog always lick me?”—you’re not alone!
In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind this endearing yet puzzling behaviour, from emotional connections to natural instincts, and what it might mean for your relationship with your furry friend.
Why Do Bulldogs Lick?
Bulldogs – and all dogs – lick for a wide variety of reasons. They don’t have the same forms of communication as humans do, so they use licking and other forms of physical contact as a way of communication – but that’s not all!
Experts believe that bulldogs (and other dogs) lick because:
- Bonding with humans/other dogs
- Communication with other dogs/animals
- Exploration (along with smell)
- Communicating with you for another reason than bonding
- Cleaning/grooming
- Self-soothing
Mothers will lick their puppies as a form of love and affection, to comfort them, to clean them, and also to physically stimulate bathroom movements. Puppies, on the other hand, will lick their mothers (and fathers) to communicate that they want or need something, such as food.
As Blue Cross UK also states, in the wild, back in the pre-domesticated days of dogs, it wouldn’t be all that unusual for mothers to regurgitate food for their young, much like with baby birds in the nest.
Puppies and adult dogs also lick each other as a form of bonding, affection, and keeping each other in check.
Sadly, licking can also be a negative sign. Bulldogs also lick themselves, other dogs, and you (their pet parents) due to physical pain, anxiety, stress, depression, boredom, discomfort, attention-seeking, infections, and irritation.
Why Does My Bulldog Always Lick Me?
If you consider licking from your bulldog is often a sign of love and affection, it could literally be the case that your bully is giving you some love.
If you’re on the couch together, side by side, and your pup gives you a little lick on the hand, for example, they are probably just letting you know that they love you. The same applies for when your bulldog is sat on the floor, by your feet, and they give your toes a lick.
Let’s look at why else your bulldog might always lick you…
Attention
We’ve covered love and attention already, but your bulldog always licking you could also be a sign that they want something, such as affection from you. You should give your dog a little pet or stroke when they lick you; otherwise, you’re just rejecting them!
Remember: they are just one part of your life, but to them, you are their whole life.
Salty Taste
Bulldogs love licking salty skin. They just love it. I’ve never met another dog breed that loves it as much as bulldogs do; although, I’m sure every pup owner says that, regardless of the breed.
If you’ve been out, cleaning the house, doing a workout, or otherwise getting sweaty and warm, you probably have salt on your skin – and that’s what your bulldog is lapping up. It’s perfectly normal; don’t worry!
Hello!
If you’ve just walked into the house, room, or up to your bulldog, they’ll probably lick you – and this is their way of saying hello. It’s not like they can actually say the word, right?
If you talk to your bulldoggo, they might lick you back. This is their way of responding to your voice… even if they don’t quite understand what you’re saying.
When is Bulldog Licking a Problem?
Bulldog licking is a problem when there’s too much of it. Repeated licking of the same part of the body causes pain and irritation, which can then turn into skin infections. The fur in that area can start to thin or go bald entirely. It can also change colour as a result of saliva staining, turning formerly white paws into a red, brown, or murky mess.
If your bulldog is repeatedly licking one paw or specific part of the body, it’s a good idea to check and make sure that they haven’t got anything stuck, such as thorns from the garden. Dirt, stones, and other debris can also get stuck in the folds of your pup’s paws, so you should check for foreign bodies, swelling, redness, or any other signs of abnormalities.
Changes to your bulldog’s licking habits is one thing you should keep an eye out for, as this could indicate a health condition that has just started.
Repeated licking of their paws, fur, specific parts of the body, or even all over could be a sign of:
- Fleas, ticks, mites, or other unwanted bugs
- Allergies/allergic reactions
- Skin sensitivity
- Boredom
- Anxiety or stress
- Dental pain (licking around the mouth)
- Dry mouth
- Worms or anal gland issues (licking around the butt)
If your bulldog is repeatedly licking you, they either love you a lot and want to express it, or they’re signalling to you that they need something. You should investigate. Rule everything out. Make an appointment with your vet for anything that seems out of place or concerning.
Remember: your bulldog can’t tell you that they’re in pain, need something, or want something. They communicate in other ways.
You, the pet parent, just need to decipher the message.
How Can I Stop My Bulldog Licking Me?
Before I continue, I’d just like to say: don’t be so quick to stop your bulldog showing you affection. One day, as sad as I am to say it, will come the day where you can’t get those licks anymore. I’m speaking from personal experience here, and it’s painful personal experience.
Moving on, you need to work out what your bulldog is trying to communicate. Do they want love and affection? Or do they need fresh water in their bowl? Is it dinner time? When was the last time they went into the garden and peed? Played with a ball? Went for a walk?
As much as your bulldog could be showing you some love with their licking actions, it could also be the case that they want or need something – and by giving them whatever it is want or need, you can stop them from licking you.
Below is what I recommend doing to figure out the answer to the question: Why does my bulldog always lick me?
- Check water bowl
- Dinner/food time?
- Play time/toy time?
- Time for a walk?
- Skin check
- Paw check
- Teeth check
- Is your doggo bored?
- Food/cleaning supplies/home fragrance check
- Vet check
Remember: your veterinarian is there for when you are concerned about your bulldog. A quick vet check will give you the peace of mind you need, plus it’ll ensure that your four-legged friend is as healthy as possible.
It’s better to be safe rather than sorry, right?
Conclusion: Why Does My Bulldog Always Lick Me?
Understanding why your bulldog loves to lick you can deepen the bond you share and provide insight into their needs and feelings. Whether it’s their way of showing affection, seeking attention, or simply expressing themselves, this behaviour reflects the love and trust they have in you. By paying attention to their cues and responding with care, you can ensure your bulldog feels happy and secure while strengthening your special connection.
Embrace the licks – they’re just one of the many ways your bulldog says, “You’re my favourite human!”
Thanks so much for stopping by and checking out Planet Bulldog. We’ve enjoyed having you here, and we hope that you come back again soon!
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