San Jose man wonders why his dog licks him but no one else

"Dogs lick all sorts of things for a few reasons but there's one constant they only lick people or objects that they trust, or feel confident about. They wouldn't be likely to lick a rattlesnake that's coiled to strike, but they're fine licking a garden rock. There is something about your wife's observation that rings true. Dogs appreciate things that taste good or have an intriguing aroma."

"Sweat is salty, and while dogs don't really crave salt, they do have a need for sodium, which they usually get from meat. If that's somehow lacking in their diet, they may seek out other sources. Your salty skin could smell like meat, which is not a comforting thought, but your dog is probably going to only lick, not bite, you."

"I won't say he loves you best because I don't want to get into the middle of a family feud, but you might have a special bond with him and he wants to show his affection toward you. He likely feels the same or similar toward your wife and children, but they might have resisted his licks while you allowed him to do it. Your wife and kids might also not taste as good as you do."

Dogs lick people or objects they trust or feel confident around. Licking can indicate appreciation of pleasing tastes or intriguing aromas, including the saltiness of sweat. Dogs require sodium, usually obtained from meat, and may seek alternative sources if the diet is lacking. Dogs avoid dangerous items and will not lick threatening animals. Licking often functions as an affectionate gesture reflecting a special bond, particularly toward people who permit the behavior. Individual preferences, past resistance, and household scents such as lotions, perfumes, or shampoos influence which family members a dog licks.

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