That adorable moment when your dog flicks its tongue out to lick its lips might not be a sign of contentment or hunger after all. According to leading animal behaviourists, this common canine gesture is often a subtle but crucial signal of stress, anxiety, or discomfort.
The experts at the charity Dog's Trust have decoded this behaviour, placing it firmly within the category of what they term 'calming signals'. These are behaviours dogs use to diffuse tense situations, communicate peaceful intent, or express their own unease.
More Than Just a Quirk: The Language of Licking
While the occasional lip-licking around dinnertime is indeed related to food, context is everything. When a dog is confronted with something it finds unsettling—be it a stranger leaning in for a pat, a loud argument, or a visit to the vet—it will often perform a quick, subtle tongue flick.
This is the dog's way of saying, 'I'm feeling worried' or 'Please don't be a threat'. It's a pacifying gesture aimed at calming both themselves and the perceived source of their anxiety.
Reading the Signs: What Your Dog is Trying to Tell You
Lip-licking is rarely an isolated signal. Owners are urged to look for a cluster of other body language cues to accurately gauge their pet's emotional state. Key signs of stress that often accompany lip-licking include:
- Whale Eye: Showing the whites of their eyes.
- Yawning: When not tired, this is a classic stress reliever.
- Turning Away: Averting their head or entire body from a stressor.
- Pinned Back Ears: Ears flattened against the head.
- Low Tail Carriage: A tail tucked between the legs or held low and still.
Ignoring these signals, especially in children who may misinterpret them, can be a primary cause of dog bites. A dog will often use every calming signal it has before feeling forced to escalate to a growl or snap.
Becoming a Canine Whisperer: How to Respond
If you notice your dog frequently licking its lips in a given situation, the best response is to identify and, if possible, remove the source of their anxiety. Give them space, speak in a calm tone, and never punish them for displaying these warning signs.
Understanding that a lip lick is a plea for help rather than a quirky habit is the first step towards building a deeper, safer, and more empathetic bond with your four-legged friend.
