Scientists claim being licked by dogs has incredible health benefits

Getting a lick from a dog could boost the mental health of teenagers, scientists claim. A smooch from a pooch might not be everyone's idea of a good mood increaser, but boffins claim a new study shows it has remarkable health benefits.

According to the new study, teenagers in particular benefit from being licked by faithful hounds because the saliva of canines contains some unique properties. Prof Takefumi Kikusui, of Azabu University in Japan, has released the results of the research after studying a group of 345 teens. Prof Kikusui said: "Raising dogs has beneficial effects, especially for adolescents, and these effects may be mediated through symbiosis with microorganisms. Adolescent children who keep dogs exhibit higher mental wellbeing, and we also found that dog ownership alters the gut microbiota."