Why Do My Dogs Lick Each Other In The Mouth

If you’re a dog owner, you may have noticed that your furry friends have a peculiar habit of licking each other in the mouth. While this behavior may seem strange to us humans, it is actually quite common among dogs and serves a variety of purposes. In this article, we will explore why dogs lick each other in the mouth, as well as delve into some interesting trends related to this topic.

One of the main reasons why dogs lick each other in the mouth is to show affection and strengthen social bonds. Just like humans hug or kiss each other to express love and closeness, dogs use licking as a way to communicate their feelings towards one another. This behavior is often seen in puppies who lick their mother’s mouth to stimulate her to regurgitate food for them. As dogs grow older, they continue to use licking as a way to reinforce their social connections with other dogs in their pack.

According to a canine behavior specialist, “Licking is a natural behavior for dogs that helps them establish and maintain social relationships within their pack. By licking each other in the mouth, dogs are able to communicate their emotions and strengthen their bonds with one another.”

In addition to showing affection, dogs also lick each other in the mouth as a form of grooming. Dogs have a strong sense of smell and are able to detect any foreign scents or particles on their pack members. By licking each other’s mouths, dogs are able to clean off any dirt or debris that may be present, helping to keep their pack mates clean and healthy.

A veterinarian explains, “Dogs have a natural instinct to groom themselves and each other, and licking is a way for them to help keep their pack mates clean. By licking each other in the mouth, dogs are able to remove any unwanted substances that may be present, such as food particles or dirt.”

Interestingly, dogs also lick each other in the mouth as a way to establish hierarchy within their pack. In the wild, wolves and other canines use licking as a submissive gesture to show respect to their pack leader. By licking the mouth of a more dominant dog, a submissive dog is able to demonstrate their respect and deference, helping to maintain peace and order within the pack.

A dog trainer notes, “Licking is a form of communication for dogs, and it can be used to establish social order within a pack. By licking the mouth of a more dominant dog, a submissive dog is able to show respect and maintain harmony within the group.”

In addition to these main reasons, there are several interesting trends related to why dogs lick each other in the mouth. One trend is that dogs may lick each other’s mouths as a way to gather information about their pack mates. Dogs have a highly developed sense of smell and are able to detect a wide range of scents through their mouths. By licking each other in the mouth, dogs are able to gather valuable information about the health, mood, and status of their pack mates.

A pet behavior consultant explains, “Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell to understand the world around them, and licking is a way for them to gather information about their pack mates. By licking each other in the mouth, dogs are able to learn about the health, mood, and status of their companions, helping them to better navigate their social interactions.”

Another trend related to this topic is that dogs may lick each other in the mouth as a form of play. Dogs are highly social animals that enjoy interacting with each other and engaging in playful behaviors. Licking each other’s mouths can be a fun and engaging activity for dogs, allowing them to bond with their pack mates and strengthen their social connections.

A dog behaviorist observes, “Licking can be a playful and social behavior for dogs, similar to how humans engage in playful activities with each other. By licking each other in the mouth, dogs are able to have fun and strengthen their relationships with their pack mates, enhancing their overall well-being.”

Furthermore, some dogs may lick each other in the mouth as a way to share food or communicate their hunger. In the wild, wolves and other canines often regurgitate food for their pack mates as a way to share resources and ensure the survival of the group. While domesticated dogs may not engage in this behavior as frequently, licking each other in the mouth can still serve as a way for dogs to communicate their desire for food or share treats with their pack mates.

A veterinary behaviorist states, “Licking can be a way for dogs to communicate their hunger or share food with their pack mates. While domesticated dogs may not regurgitate food like their wild counterparts, licking each other in the mouth can still be a way for them to share resources and strengthen their social bonds.”

Despite the many reasons why dogs lick each other in the mouth, some dog owners may have concerns about this behavior. Here are 15 common concerns and answers related to dogs licking each other in the mouth:

1. Is it safe for dogs to lick each other in the mouth?

Yes, it is generally safe for dogs to lick each other in the mouth. Dogs have natural antibodies in their saliva that help to kill bacteria and prevent infections.

2. Can dogs transmit diseases through licking each other in the mouth?

While it is possible for dogs to transmit diseases through licking, the risk is generally low. However, it is important to monitor your dogs’ behavior and ensure that they are healthy and up to date on their vaccinations.

3. My dogs are constantly licking each other in the mouth. Is this normal?

Yes, licking each other in the mouth is a normal behavior for dogs that helps them establish and maintain social bonds. However, if you notice excessive licking or other concerning behaviors, it may be worth consulting with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.

4. Should I intervene if my dogs are licking each other in the mouth too much?

In most cases, it is not necessary to intervene if your dogs are licking each other in the mouth. However, if you feel uncomfortable with the behavior or notice any signs of aggression, it may be helpful to redirect their attention or seek guidance from a professional.

5. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth when they are playing. Is this normal?

Yes, licking each other in the mouth during play is a common behavior for dogs. Playful licking is a way for dogs to engage with each other and strengthen their social bonds.

6. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth after eating. Is this normal?

Yes, licking each other in the mouth after eating is a natural behavior for dogs. Dogs may lick each other’s mouths to help clean off any food particles or to share the taste of a meal with their pack mates.

7. My dogs are from different packs, and they still lick each other in the mouth. Is this normal?

Yes, it is normal for dogs from different packs to lick each other in the mouth. Licking is a universal behavior for dogs that helps them communicate and establish social connections with other canines.

8. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth when they are stressed. Is this normal?

Licking each other in the mouth as a stress-relief behavior is not uncommon for dogs. Dogs may engage in licking as a way to comfort themselves or their pack mates during times of stress or anxiety.

9. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth when they are sleeping. Is this normal?

Yes, some dogs may lick each other in the mouth while they are sleeping. Licking can be a calming and soothing behavior for dogs, helping them to relax and feel secure.

10. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth when they are in a new environment. Is this normal?

Yes, dogs may lick each other in the mouth more frequently when they are in a new environment. Licking can be a way for dogs to seek comfort and reassurance from their pack mates during times of change or uncertainty.

11. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth when they are sick. Is this normal?

Licking each other in the mouth as a form of caregiving is not uncommon for dogs. Dogs may lick their pack mates’ mouths as a way to show support and comfort when they are feeling unwell.

12. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth after a fight. Is this normal?

Yes, licking each other in the mouth after a fight is a common behavior for dogs. Licking can be a way for dogs to reconcile and repair their relationships after a conflict, helping to restore harmony within the pack.

13. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth when they are separated. Is this normal?

Yes, dogs may lick each other in the mouth more frequently when they are separated. Licking can be a way for dogs to reconnect and reaffirm their bonds with their pack mates after a period of time apart.

14. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth when they are alone. Is this normal?

Yes, some dogs may lick each other in the mouth more often when they are alone. Licking can be a self-soothing behavior for dogs, helping them to cope with feelings of loneliness or anxiety.

15. My dogs only lick each other in the mouth during specific times of day. Is this normal?

Yes, dogs may have specific times of day when they are more likely to lick each other in the mouth. Licking can be a routine behavior for dogs, helping them to establish a sense of predictability and comfort in their daily lives.

In summary, dogs lick each other in the mouth for a variety of reasons, including to show affection, groom each other, establish hierarchy, gather information, play, share food, and communicate their emotions. This behavior is a natural and important part of canine social interactions, helping dogs to build and maintain strong bonds within their pack. While some dog owners may have concerns about this behavior, it is generally safe and normal for dogs to lick each other in the mouth. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior and addressing any concerns with the help of a professional, dog owners can ensure that their furry friends are happy, healthy, and well-adjusted members of their pack.