Understand why your dog is licking you
Before you know how to stop your dog from licking you excessively, you need to understand why they are doing it. Some dogs lick their owners as a sign of affection, while others do it as a sign of submission or to seek attention. By understanding why your dog is licking you excessively, you can treat their behavior appropriately.
Redirect your dog’s attention
If your dog is licking you because they want your attention, redirect their attention to something else. You can give your dog a toy or a chew bone to distract them. You can also engage them in some training sessions or games to keep them busy.
Offer positive reinforcement
Offering positive reinforcement when your dog exhibits good behavior is a great way to train them. You can reward your dog when they stop licking you, even if it’s just for a few seconds. You can use treats or give them a nice pat on the head. This will motivate your dog to stop licking you and to behave better.
Use positive verbal cues
You can also use positive verbal cues to train your dog to stop licking you. You can use cues like “no” or “off” when they start licking you. When they stop, you can praise them with positive affirmations like “good girl” or “good boy.” This will help them associate good behavior with positive feelings.
Teach your dog the “leave it” command
Teaching your dog the ‘leave it’ command will also help them stop licking you excessively. This command can be used when your dog is licking you excessively or when they are about to lick you. To teach your dog the “leave it” command, start by holding a treat in your hand and telling them to “leave it.” When they move away from the treat, give them a treat as a reward. Repeat this process until your dog learned the command.
Set boundaries
Setting boundaries for your dog is also essential in training them to stop licking you excessively. You can teach your dog to stay on the ground or sit next to you rather than climbing on your lap or licking your face. By setting boundaries, you are communicating to your dog drives-the-dog-to-lick” title=”What drives the dog to lick”>what you expect from them, and they will be more likely to follow the rules.
Conclusion
Excessive licking is a common behavior among dogs, and it can become a problem for some owners. However, you can train your dog to stop licking you and still maintain a healthy relationship with them. Training your dog to stop licking requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By following these tips, you can make your dog stop licking you excessively and improve your relationship with them.