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

"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."

"Your dog might simply love 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."

Dogs lick people or objects they trust and feel confident about. Licking can express affection and a special bond between dog and person. Dogs are drawn to tastes and scents, including salty sweat, and may seek sodium if dietary intake is low. A dog's licking may reflect learned acceptance when one person allows it while others resist. Dogs can be deterred by lotions, perfumes, or shampoos that alter taste or smell. Licking typically indicates comfort and nonaggression, and dogs are more likely to lick targets they perceive as safe or rewarding.

Read at The Mercury News