Your mood or stress due to the hormones you release
The salty traces of sweat that he
finds attractive The external odors reported throughout the day, especially when you
walk barefoot For him, your feet tell your story.

He doesn’t just lick to smell… He also pays attention to your reaction.
Over time, your dog will understand that this gesture gets your attention. You respond, you talk to him, you look at him: It’s a social reward for him. It can then become a complicit ritual.
In other situations, this behavior can reflect:

A need for comfort .
A form of submission.
A way to channel a little stress.
When should you be concerned?
A dog that licks your feet from time to time is no cause for concern. However, if this behavior becomes frequent, persistent, or compulsive, or if it is accompanied by signs of discomfort (apathy, restlessness, withdrawal, etc.), it is best to consult a veterinarian or canine behaviorist. This could include:

Chronic
stress, boredom or lack of stimulation, or
obsessive
-compulsive disorder. What if it bothers you?
There’s no reason to be brutal. Here are some tips for smoothly redirecting this behavior:

Ignore it: Simply put your dog’s feet up without comment.
Offer an alternative: a chew toy, a licking mat.
Appreciate calm behavior: Praise him when he stays calm.
Keep him busy: olfactory games, varied walks, fun learning.
The main thing: don’t punish. This could increase their anxiety.