When you pet a dog, is that comparable to when they lick you? Are you and they expressing the same sentiment?

Yes, but you could also lick them back to make sure they know you like them.

Yes, it is reminiscent to them of when their mother licked them as puppies.

Additionally, you can tell by the quiet sounds they make when you pet them over a long period of time, that it just plain feels good and is relaxing.

Cats are similar, I think, but they mutually like rubbing against things, even us, I assume to mark their territory with pheramones. It implies bonding and ownership.

Depends on where they lick.

My cat only licks me after I have gotten really sweaty. I assume it is for the salt. I am a big potato chip.

Maybe dogs are in it for the same selfish reasons too.

Depends on the dog.

I think salt is the real reason dogs lick our wounds.

Salt is definitely why cats and rodents lick us

Short answer is yes. It’s “grooming” behavior. It establishes individuals as part of a “group.”

If it’s a quick, random lick, it’s a request for something.

I mean, I lick him & yes…he strokes me, just this little arrangement we have.