7 Most "licky" dog breeds (according to a vet)

People either love it or hate it—a lick from a dog—but there are some types of dogs that will definitely do it more than others. 

There are many reasons for a dog licking, one of the most common being a sign of a dog's affection for you. They are just trying to show their love in their own way! It can also be done out of boredom, anxiety and to gain attention too. How else can they tell you they are hungry?

Licking of the ears might seem gross, but to a dog it means loyalty—they see you as part of their pack and are trying to help you clean them. And in some cases, it’s because they can taste food on your hands or like your body moisturiser.  

But it is safe to say that if you are not a fan of the licking, then there are some breeds that you should avoid if you are thinking of getting a dog. Here are the seven most licky dog breeds, according to John Burns, MBE, leading vet and founder of healthy pet food brand Burns Pet Nutrition.

This outgoing and friendly dog breed has the top spot as being the lickiest of them all. They love to show affection in this way and the labrador retriever is friendly with all age groups so they are likely to lick all types of people. 

Poodles are also renowned for licking a lot. This is to display love, and to gain attention or love back. Poodles can lick excessively, being prone to separation anxiety, so this is something to be mindful of. 

The golden retriever is reliably loving and loyal towards the human and their toys, therefore both receive a lot of licking. It suits someone who is looking for a dog that is as loving as they are to keep them occupied. 

The breed loves licking to display love and curiosity. Not only is it the tongue that is used for being curious, but it is also their nose too. They enjoy being fussed over and being close to their owners. 

This breed is another one that is one of the most licky! They may do it to soothe themselves or to get attention. Additionally, German shepherds tend to do it more than most as it is an affectionate breed that loves to explore too. 

Forget just humans, beagles love licking furniture and floors too! They love trying new things and like many dogs, the licking is down to the comforting behaviour from when they were licked by their mothers as a puppy. 

As we all know, corgis are incredibly happy and loveable. Fun-loving and loyal in temperament, they can be choosy with their licks but once you are the target, they will not stop! The Queen is said to have owned over 30 corgis in her lifetime and we can see why! 

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