There are a few reasons why a dog licks.

A dog’s saliva contains a healing agent and dogs often lick another’s wounds in an attempt to heel them.

Dogs will also lick as a way to show submission. A submissive dog will hold himself very low, slinking himself down to try and make himself appear smaller. He will approach a human with his head lowered and his hears slightly back as if to say, you’re my boss.

Some dogs will lick another in a dominant manner. For example mother dogs lick and groom their puppies and for the pups it is the mother displaying leadership. Mom says stay here and be groomed because she is alpha over them and she says so. Submissive licking and dominance licking have different body languages. A dominant dog will carry himself high and proud. He approaches things with an air of confidence. He may also be very persistent as to what he wants.

Sometimes dog’s lick out of obsession. Dog’s who lick others in an obsessive or dominant manner need to be corrected and the dog must be told not to lick.

Summer is a good opportunity to spend quality time with your family and pets. However, summers can be dangerous for your pet especially if you have a dog at home. In summers, your animal friend could suffer from problems like sun burn, dehydration and stroke. Therefore, it is important that you take special care of your pet during summers.

Make sure you give your companion with plenty of fresh water to keep your pet hydrated during summers. Provide your pet with a bowl of fresh clean water both outside and inside your house. If you are planning to take your dog for a long walk or for any other outdoor activity, make sure you carry water for your companion. When you take your pet outdoors make sure you check for signs of dehydration. Some of the signs of dehydration in dogs include lethargy, loss of skin elasticity, lethargy and sunken eyes.

Avoid leaving your dog in the car in summers as it can get very hot quickly. Even if you go out for a few minutes, take your pet with you. The car can be too hot for your pet even after you have rolled down the windows. At times, the heat in the car can cause sun stroke. If you cannot take your dog along with you, it is a good idea that you leave them at home rather them leaving them unattended in your car.

Most people are under the impression that all dogs can swim which is not true. If you are planning to take your animal companion for a walk near the pool, make sure you supervise them. If you have a pool at home, make sure you put a fence around the pool.

It is common for dogs to suffer from the problem of ticks and fleas during summers. To protect your pet from getting them, you must talk to your vet. Your pet may suggest products that you must apply at least once a month. Avoid using over-the-counter products as not all products are safe.

During summers, your dog is more likely to suffer from heartworm disease. This disease is usually carried by mosquitoes and could cause death of your pet if not treated on time. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heartworm disease, take them to your vet immediately.