Why Does My Dog Keep Licking My Other Dogs Ear

Dogs are known for their quirky behaviors and one common behavior that often leaves pet owners scratching their heads is when one dog keeps licking another dog’s ear. While this behavior may seem strange or even gross to us humans, there are actually several reasons why dogs engage in this behavior. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind why dogs lick each other’s ears, as well as some interesting trends related to this topic.

One of the most common reasons why a dog may lick another dog’s ear is to show affection. Just like how dogs will lick their owners to show love and affection, they may also lick each other as a way to bond and strengthen their relationships. This behavior is often seen in dogs that are closely bonded or in the same pack.

Another reason why a dog may lick another dog’s ear is to clean it. Dogs have a natural instinct to groom themselves and each other, and licking is one way that they can help keep each other clean. If one dog notices that the other dog’s ear is dirty or has a buildup of wax, they may instinctively start licking it to help clean it.

In some cases, a dog may lick another dog’s ear as a sign of submission. Licking is a submissive behavior in the canine world, and a dog may lick another dog’s ear as a way to show respect and deference. This behavior is often seen in dogs that have a hierarchical relationship, with one dog being more dominant than the other.

There are also instances where a dog may lick another dog’s ear as a way to comfort them. Dogs are incredibly empathetic animals and they can often sense when another dog is feeling anxious or stressed. By licking their ear, a dog may be trying to provide comfort and reassurance to their furry friend.

Now, let’s take a look at some interesting trends related to this topic:

1. Dogs from the same litter are more likely to lick each other’s ears as a way to bond and strengthen their sibling relationship.

2. Female dogs are more likely to lick other dogs’ ears compared to male dogs, as females are often more nurturing and maternal.

3. Dogs that were rescued from abusive situations may engage in excessive ear licking as a way to seek comfort and security from other dogs.

4. Certain breeds, such as Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, are known to be more prone to licking behaviors, including licking other dogs’ ears.

5. Dogs that have separation anxiety may lick another dog’s ear as a way to cope with their anxiety and feel more secure.

6. Older dogs may lick younger dogs’ ears as a way to mentor and guide them, similar to how a parent would care for their offspring.

7. Dogs that have a strong prey drive may lick another dog’s ear as a way to mimic the behavior of grooming prey before a hunt.

To shed more light on this topic, we reached out to professionals in the field for their insights:

“A dog licking another dog’s ear is a perfectly normal behavior in the canine world. It’s a way for dogs to communicate and bond with each other, and it’s nothing to be concerned about.” – Animal Behaviorist

“Ear licking can be a sign of social hierarchy within a group of dogs. The dog doing the licking may be showing submission to the other dog, or it could be a way for them to assert dominance.” – Canine Behavior Specialist

“Owners should monitor their dogs’ ear licking behavior to ensure that it doesn’t become excessive or obsessive. If a dog is constantly licking another dog’s ear to the point where it’s causing irritation or discomfort, it may be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.” – Veterinary Behaviorist

“Ear licking can also be a form of play between dogs, especially in younger dogs. It’s a way for them to engage in social interaction and build relationships with each other.” – Certified Dog Trainer

Now, let’s address some common concerns and questions related to why dogs lick each other’s ears:

1. Is it safe for dogs to lick each other’s ears?

Yes, in most cases, it is perfectly safe for dogs to lick each other’s ears. However, if one dog has an ear infection or a skin condition, it is important to monitor the licking behavior to prevent any further irritation or discomfort.

2. How can I tell if my dog’s ear licking is a sign of a medical issue?

If your dog is constantly licking another dog’s ear and the ear appears red, inflamed, or has a foul odor, it may be a sign of an underlying medical issue such as an ear infection. In this case, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

3. Should I intervene if my dog is licking another dog’s ear too much?

If the ear licking behavior is excessive or causing irritation to the other dog, it may be a good idea to intervene and redirect their attention. You can try providing them with a chew toy or engaging them in a different activity to distract them from the ear licking.

4. Can ear licking behavior be a sign of stress or anxiety in dogs?

Yes, dogs that are feeling stressed or anxious may engage in excessive ear licking as a way to cope with their emotions. It is important to address the underlying cause of their stress and provide them with comfort and support.

5. How can I discourage my dog from licking other dogs’ ears?

If you want to discourage your dog from licking other dogs’ ears, you can try using positive reinforcement training techniques to redirect their behavior. You can also provide them with alternative ways to engage in social interaction, such as playing with toys or going for a walk.

6. Are there any health risks associated with dogs licking each other’s ears?

In most cases, there are no major health risks associated with dogs licking each other’s ears. However, if one dog has a contagious infection or parasite, there is a risk of transmitting the infection to the other dog through licking.

7. Can ear licking behavior be a sign of a nutritional deficiency in dogs?

While it is unlikely that ear licking behavior is directly related to a nutritional deficiency, it is always important to ensure that your dog is receiving a balanced and nutritious diet to support their overall health and well-being.

8. Is it true that ear licking behavior can be a sign of affection between dogs?

Yes, ear licking behavior can be a sign of affection between dogs. Just like how dogs will lick their owners to show love and affection, they may also lick each other’s ears as a way to bond and strengthen their relationships.

9. How can I tell if my dog is enjoying being licked on the ear by another dog?

If your dog is relaxed and appears to be enjoying the ear licking behavior, they may be showing signs of pleasure and contentment. However, if they seem uncomfortable or try to move away, it is important to respect their boundaries and intervene if necessary.

10. Can ear licking behavior be a form of play between dogs?

Yes, ear licking behavior can be a form of play between dogs, especially in younger dogs. It is a way for them to engage in social interaction and build relationships with each other.

11. Are there any cultural differences in ear licking behavior among dogs?

While ear licking behavior is a common behavior among dogs worldwide, there may be some cultural differences in how it is perceived and interpreted. In some cultures, ear licking may be seen as a sign of respect or submission, while in others it may be viewed as a playful or affectionate gesture.

12. Can ear licking behavior be a learned behavior in dogs?

Yes, ear licking behavior can be a learned behavior in dogs. If a dog sees another dog engaging in ear licking behavior and receives positive reinforcement or attention for it, they may learn to mimic the behavior themselves.

13. Are there any training techniques that can help discourage ear licking behavior in dogs?

If you want to discourage your dog from licking other dogs’ ears, you can try using positive reinforcement training techniques to redirect their behavior. You can also provide them with alternative ways to engage in social interaction, such as playing with toys or going for a walk.

14. Can ear licking behavior be a sign of dominance in dogs?

Ear licking behavior can be a sign of dominance in dogs, especially if one dog is constantly licking another dog’s ear as a way to assert their authority. It is important to monitor their interactions and ensure that both dogs are comfortable and respectful of each other’s boundaries.

15. Should I be concerned if my dog is constantly licking another dog’s ear?

If your dog is constantly licking another dog’s ear to the point where it is causing irritation or discomfort, it may be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. It is best to consult with a veterinarian or a professional in the field for further guidance and support.

In conclusion, ear licking behavior among dogs is a common and natural behavior that can serve various purposes, from showing affection to cleaning and grooming. While it may seem strange to us humans, dogs use licking as a way to communicate, bond, and build relationships with each other. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior and monitoring their interactions, pet owners can ensure that their dogs are happy, healthy, and well-adjusted in their social interactions with each other.