If you happen to think that your pooch licking your hands is super gross, then there are quite a few ways you can put this bad habit to rest. From ignoring the behavior to using the word “no,” experiment and see what is most effective for your dog. Remember, most dogs want to please their human companions so they should be willing to stop a bad habit! Check out 5 ways to curb this habit stat:

1. Ignore the dog for licking.

If you don’t want your dog to lick you, then don’t give her any attention for licking.

By giving the dog attention I mean:

• looking at her
• talking to her or laughing at her
• gently pushing her away or holding her collar
• petting her
• saying “gross!” in an excited voice

Instead of doing the above, just calmly move your hands out of reach and calmly move away or block her with your body.

2. Hand the dog a toy to hold.

Give the dog something to hold in her mouth like a toy or a bone.
This is not to reward the licking but to give her something else to do.

3. Teach her to sit or lie down before she gets attention.

4. Use a firm no.

It’s OK to tell your dog no! She won’t be afraid of you. It won’t hurt her!

5. Put bitter apple spray on your hands.

Bitter apple spray for dogs is a product designed to prevent dogs from biting or chewing. Most dogs don’t like the taste of the bitter apple, but it won’t harm them.

Other tips to stop a dog from licking you:

– Does your dog love the taste of your lotion or soap? Try switching to unscented.
– Is she just bored?
– Is she constantly licking guests? Keep her on a leash when they arrive.

Really it's all about teaching your pup what he's doing right and rewarding him for good behavior like That Mutt suggests. Distract him when he goes for your hands, and play with him and/or give him a toy to chew and lick instead. Fido will get the hint eventually and until then it's up to you to be the master trainer!