In this way, they demonstrate affection and submission.
Puppies of wild dogs lick the faces of older individuals returning from a hunt, prompting them to regurgitate partially digested meat. Over time, this reaction has taken on additional meaning: subordinate individuals greet dominant ones, expressing their joy and willingness to submit.
Domestic dogs have adapted this behavior to humans, seeking to endear themselves to them. However, since dogs cannot lick a person’s face, they prefer to lick hands. Sometimes, more timid dogs behave similarly towards people who intimidate them, again demonstrating their submission.
