Dog Constantly Licking Other Dogs Ears [10 Reasons]
Is your dog constantly licking other dogs ears? Let’s find out why!
Do you own a dog that enjoys licking the ears of other dogs? Are you worried about how they act in social situations? In that case, you are not alone!
The issue of their dog repeatedly licking the ears of other dogs is one that many pet owners must handle.
But don’t worry! We’ll look at the possible causes of your dog licking other dogs’ ears in this blog post, along with some advice on how to put a stop to it.
Now let’s get started and discover how to manage your dog’s social behavior!
Dog Constantly Licking Other Dogs Ears
Dogs licking other dogs’ ears can be a sign of dominance or submission, or it may simply be a form of social bonding.
If your dog is excessively licking other dogs’ ears, it could be a sign of a compulsive disorder.
It is important to take your dog to the vet to rule out any medical issues, such as ear infections or allergies.
Additionally, it may be helpful to work with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to help you manage and modify your dog’s behavior.
Let’s break it down further…
Why Dogs Constantly Licking Other Dogs Ears
Here are some common reasons why dogs constantly lick other dogs’ ears:
Grooming themselves
Dogs are naturally clean animals that groom themselves and other canines.
They are kept clean and healthy because of this habit, which also makes the canine social relationships stronger.
Dogs can groom one another by licking each other’s ears to eliminate any dirt or debris that may have gathered there.
Therefore, your dog might be licking another dog’s ear as a way of grooming them.
Showing Submission
Dogs have a complicated social structure with members that are both dominant and submissive.
As a sign of respect and reverence, a submissive dog may kiss the ears of a dominant dog.
The subordinate dog uses this behavior to acknowledge the dominant dog’s superior status and prevent conflict.
Dominance display
A social hierarchy with dominant and submissive members exists among dogs.
A dominant dog may kiss the ears of a subordinate dog to show that it is in charge.
Other dominance displays, including standing over the other dog or growling, are frequently displayed in conjunction with this activity.
A means of communication
Dogs use a combination of body language, vocalizations, and scent to communicate with one another.
It’s possible for a dog to communicate with another dog by licking the other dog’s ears.
For instance, a dog may lick another dog’s ears to greet them, express affection, or display dominance.
Health issues
Excessive licking of another dog’s ears occasionally could be a symptom of an illness, such as allergies, an infection, or parasites.
It’s crucial to take both dogs to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues if you discover that your dog is consistently licking the ears of other dogs.
For instance, ear infections are a typical issue in dogs that can be uncomfortable and call for medical attention.
Stress relief
Like humans, dogs can become stressed and anxious, this can lead to behavior such as licking another dog’s ear.
A dog may be able to relax and reduce stress by licking the ears of another dog.
Endorphins are released during this behavior, which aids in calming down and reducing tension.
Showing Affection
Dogs are very social creatures that develop strong ties with both people and other canines.
It can be a sign of affection and a technique to develop a relationship with another dog to lick their ears.
Dogs may also use this behavior to demonstrate their respect and subordination to other canines they perceive to be in positions of leadership or higher social rank.
Playing with each other
Dogs are lively creatures who like interacting physically with both humans and other dogs.
During playfulness, licking another dog’s ears can be a fun activity that expresses happiness and pleasure.
Together with this activity, dogs may engage in other amusing activities including running, jumping, and wrestling.
A sign of exploration
Dogs use their keen sense of smell to investigate their surroundings.
Dogs may be able to learn about the scent and identity of another dog by licking its ears.
Dogs can use this behavior to distinguish between known and unknown dogs as well as to spot potential hazards.
Attention-seeking
Some dogs may lick the ears of other dogs in an effort to get their attention and affection.
This tendency can be more prevalent in dogs who lack adequate socializing or who are feeling lonely.
A dog may lick another dog’s ears to start social contact and get the other dog’s attention.
Let’s talk solutions…
How to stop dogs from licking other dog’s ears
There are a few things you can try to stop dogs from licking each other’s ears:
- Training: Teach your dogs to obey the command to “leave it.” They will learn that when you issue the command, they must stop what they are doing and move away from the other dog’s ears.
- Spray a bitter apple on the dog’s ear: You might try spraying a bitter apple on the dog’s ear that is being licked. This will discourage the other dog from licking because it will taste bad.
- Distract them: When you see one dog beginning to lick the ears of another, divert their attention by saying their names or by using a toy or food.
- Separate them: Isolate them for a while until they quiet down if the dogs don’t respond to distraction. This will offer them some breathing room and help stop the licking habit from developing further.
- Use a head halter: Employ a head halter to stop your dog from licking the ears of another dog. This is especially useful if a dog is continually bugging the ears of another dog. The dog’s head can be gently moved away from the other dog’s ears using a head halter.
- Address any underlying health issues: If a dog is continuously licking the ears of another dog, it may be an indication of an underlying health problem, such as an ear infection or allergies. Make careful to visit the veterinarian with both pets to rule out any potential health issues.
- Employ positive reinforcement: Reward your dogs with goodies or praise when you notice them acting properly around one another. This will urge children to maintain their acceptable behavior by reinforcing it.
- Exercise frequently and provide your pet with mental stimulation: Boredom and inactivity can occasionally result in unwanted behaviors, such as excessive licking. To assist prevent undesirable habits, make sure your dogs are getting enough exercise and mental stimulation, such as through interactive toys or puzzle feeders.
- Monitor the dogs’ interactions: You might need to monitor them more closely if one dog keeps rubbing another dog’s ears. This can entail separating them when necessary or keeping them on leashes when they’re together. Inappropriate behaviors can also be avoided with the help of gradual introductions and supervised playtime.
- Consult a specialist: Consider seeking the advice of a qualified dog trainer or behaviorist if the licking behavior continues despite your best efforts. These can aid in locating the behavior’s underlying cause and creating a strategy to remedy it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a dog’s tendency to lick its own ears normal?
Dogs do indeed groom themselves naturally, including licking their own ears.
Yet persistent ear licking or scratching could point to a deeper problem, such as an ear infection or allergies.
Can a dog get sick if it licks another dog’s ears all the time?
Although it’s unusual, licking the ears of another dog has the potential to transfer infections if one of the dogs already has an ear infection.
Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and health, and make sure their ears are kept clean and infection-free.
Should I be worried if my dog keeps licking the ears of other dogs?
It’s typically not a cause for alarm if the conduct is sporadic and not harmful.
But, if your dog keeps licking the ears of other dogs, it may be a show of dominance or an indication of a deeper problem that needs to be addressed.
Learn more about caring for a dog.
Do dogs who lick each other’s ears spread illnesses?
Yes, it is possible for dogs to transfer illnesses by licking each other’s ears, especially if one of the dogs already has an ear infection.
It’s crucial to periodically check your dog’s ears for infections and to keep them clean.
Learn more about ways to socialize your dog which can avoid unnecessary licking of other dogs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to understand why your dog is licking other dogs’ ears, as it may be a sign of discomfort or even a medical condition.
To stop dogs from licking other dogs’ ears, you can start by ruling out any medical concerns and redirecting the behavior.
For example, you can distract the dog with a toy or a treat, or teach them the “no” or “leave it” command.
Additionally, you can explore other reasons for the behavior, such as boredom or stress, and find ways to address those issues.
Finally, you can use an anti-lick solution, but be sure to use a non-alcohol-based formula to avoid any potential skin irritation.
