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22 Aug 2024

Why do dogs lick?

Dr Harry: Why dogs lick

Why do dogs lick? Well it’s all to do with pecking order. If one wolf became separated from the pack and (then) came back into the pack, it would immediately go up to the leader of the pack and lick the inside the lip, so actually licking the gum - that’s the first thing. Second, it would lick the ears. Thirdly, it would roll over and expose its belly. This is a normal dog behaviour, as per the wolf.

Some dogs will lick you, don’t worry about it, it’s a term of affection. Dogs that do a lot of licking, licking you - particularly they love to lick your feet or lick your face, just as they would do if it was another dog. I find that to be normal behaviour.

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Some dogs will lick you, don’t worry about it, it’s a term of affection.
Dr Harry Cooper,

 

Dogs that lick a lot are generally very subservient dogs. These are dogs that are very highly unlikely to bite you. And sometimes they’re a little bit anxious too. Don’t get overwhelmed, just tell them no. And one little trick that works better than everything else... perfume. Dogs and cats don’t like perfume. It's not the smell, it’s the alcohol it's dissolved in, they don’t like that.

Written by Dr Harry

Dr. Harry, is an iconic Australian veterinarian, celebrated television personality, and passionate animal welfare advocate. With a career spanning over five decades, he has become a household name, educating and entertaining audiences with his wealth of knowledge and genuine love for animals.

 

After practicing as a veterinarian in Sydney and the UK, Dr. Harry's warm personality and expertise caught the attention of television producers, hosting his own shows. Beyond his television career, Dr. Harry is a tireless advocate for animal welfare, using his platform to raise awareness and promote responsible pet ownership.

 

Dr. Harry Cooper continues to inspire and educate audiences of all ages with his infectious enthusiasm, vast knowledge, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of animals.

Find out more about Dr. Harry
Dr Harry

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Any general advice provided by Dr Harry Cooper in relation to Everyday Pet Insurance is provided as an Authorised Representative of Hollard and PetSure through an arrangement with Woolworths AR No. 1000933.

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Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time prior to 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436 (Hollard), arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by Hollard’s Authorised Representative (AR) Woolworths Group Limited ABN 88 000 014 675, AR 245476 (Woolworths). Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time on or after 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, Woolworths. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at insurance.everyday.com.au/pet-insurance.

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