Dogs lick people for several natural and instinctive reasons. Commonly, dogs lick to show affection and to bond, as licking releases pleasurable endorphins for them and recalls comfort they felt as puppies when their mothers licked them. Licking can also be a way to explore their environment —dogs use their tongues to taste and understand the world, including the scents and tastes on human skin. Additionally, dogs might lick to get attention or communicate their desire for interaction or play. Sometimes dogs lick because people taste salty or have interesting scents on their skin, especially after exercise. Licking can also serve as a self- soothing behavior if a dog is stressed or anxious. While mostly positive, excessive licking might indicate a medical or behavioral issue requiring veterinary attention.