Dogs love to explore, and their noses and tongues are their favorite tools for the job. If you wear lotion that interests your dog/s sense of smell, prepare to be licked.
Why Does My Dog Lick Me When I Put Lotion On?
Your dog probably enjoys the taste of your lotion. Although lotion may taste strange to you, to your dog, it smells delicious with an indescribable taste.
Sweet scents trigger canine curiosity—resulting in sniffing, mouthing, and licking.
Sometimes It Means “I Love You”
Dogs show affection and affinity by licking. It may just be that the doggy kisses you receive when you come home from a hard day’s work mean “Welcome home.” Your lotion was just a happy coincidence, as far as your dog is concerned.
Maybe Your Dog Wants Attention
Licking is your dog’s way of saying, “I want attention.” So if you’re annoyed with your dog’s constant attention and interest in lotion, offer a chew toy or bone.
Will My Dog Get Sick From Licking Lotion?
Although your dog won’t get sick from licking small amounts of lotion, certain prescription creams and medical-grade lotions could cause serious long-term harm.
However, most over-the-counter personal care products such as soaps, body washes, and even toothpaste contain toxic chemicals that can harm your dog.
Suppose you regularly get a massage or soothe your sore muscles with a muscle rub cream like tiger balm. In that case, bad habits like licking lotion from your skin can create long-term stomach problems due to their capsaicin and salicylate chemicals.
Other topical products that may be dangerous to your dog include:
- Steroid-based anti-itch creams. If your pet accidentally ingested hydrocortisone, they may seem incredibly thirsty and go to the bathroom often.
- Antifungal foot creams can give your dog diarrhea.
- Creams and ointments with zinc oxide can damage your dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten sunscreen or diaper rash ointment.
- Creams with flurbiprofen used to relieve arthritis may prompt kidney failure even in small amounts.
If you’re still worried, choose healthier, non-toxic alternative lotions and moisturizers like shea butter that can support your pet’s wellness plan.
What Happens if a Dog Licks Me When I Put Calamine Lotion On?
Calamine lotion is not safe for dogs, even in small lickable amounts. In addition, calamine contains toxic zinc oxide that can sometimes cause irreversible gastrointestinal issues.
Calamine lotion relieves itchy skin and discomfort from poison ivy or bug bites. That means you’ll likely carry it in your bag while hiking in the mountains. If you put it on, don’t let your dog lick you.
Signs of zinc poisoning:
- Your dog is extra thirsty and panting
- Yellow around the eyes or skin
- Orange, red, and yellow stool or urine
If you suspect your dog has zinc oxide poisoning, call your vet immediately or contact the Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680).
My Dog Licked CBD Lotion
CBD creams, lotions, and oils feel nice on sore, achy muscles, but they don’t feel that great for your dog that’s gotten a taste of your CBD lotion.
CBD oil can be a great natural option for dog owners looking for a moisturizing conditioning oil for their dog’s skin and fur. But if your dog is licking CBD lotion off your hands, they’re probably experiencing the relaxing and cooling effects CBD can offer.
My Dog Licked Aveeno Lotion
Aveeno lotion is dog-licking safe because of the ingredients inside: fine-milled oatmeal, glycerin, and paraffin. In addition, Aveeno lotion does not contain toxic ingredients like zinc oxide or diclofenac that will harm your dog.
However, if your dog has a taste here and there, it shouldn’t pose any problem. In addition to being safe for you to use, Aveeno is safe to apply to your dog’s skin.
Is Eucalyptus Lotion Safe for My Dog?
If you’re a dog owner wondering if wearing eucalyptus lotion will get your dog sick, err on the side of caution. Prolonged or excessive exposure to eucalyptus oils can create health problems for your dog, such as gastrointestinal and neurological damage.
Symptoms you can look for if you suspect your dog has an allergy to your eucalyptus lotion are:
- Swelling, itching, rashes, or abdominal pain to the touch
- Enlarged eyes with instantaneous breathing and excessive drooling
- Quick breathing or panting
When you see these signs, your dog may be suffering from poisoning. Consult your vet immediately.
What Should I Do if My Dog Loves To Lick Lotion?
Although it may bother you when your dog runs up to you after a fresh shower to lick the lotion off your hands and feet, it is not at all harmful. And how can you blame them for smelling so good?
However, training your dog to stop licking lotion can benefit your dog, save you money on lotions without having to reapply them daily, and keep your dog safe.
Don’t Worry if Your Dog Loves To Lick the Lotion
Poisoning your dog after giving you “kisses” should be the least of your worries. With these simple precautions, your dog is unlikely to get sick from licking your lotion off you.
