Why Do Dogs Lick Each Other?

What does face licking mean?

Face licking between dogs is rooted in puppyhood. Puppies lick their mother's mouth to stimulate her to regurgitate food, and they lick the faces of older pack members as a submissive greeting. Adult dogs that lick another dog's face are typically displaying deference, affection, or a non-threatening greeting. It is the canine equivalent of a handshake combined with a show of respect. Dogs that are lower in social confidence tend to initiate face licking more frequently, while confident dogs are more often on the receiving end. It is a healthy social behavior that reinforces peaceful relationships.

Why do dogs lick each other's ears?

Ear licking is one of the most common forms of social grooming between dogs. The inside of a dog's ear is difficult for the dog itself to clean, so having a companion groom it serves a practical hygiene function. Dogs are also attracted to the taste and smell of ear wax, which contains proteins and fatty acids. Ear licking between bonded dogs is generally a sign of close social connection. The one downside is that excessive ear licking can introduce moisture and bacteria into the ear canal, potentially contributing to ear infections in the dog being groomed.

Is wound licking actually helpful?

Dog saliva contains a small amount of lysozyme, an enzyme with mild antibacterial properties, and licking a wound also removes debris from the surface. In the wild, this provided a basic level of wound care when no other option existed. In a domestic setting, however, the risks of wound licking outweigh the benefits. Excessive licking irritates wounds, introduces oral bacteria that can cause infection, and delays healing. If one dog is persistently licking another dog's wound, it is better to separate them and let the wound heal properly, ideally with veterinary guidance.

When is licking a problem between dogs?

Mutual licking is normally a sign of a healthy bond, but it can occasionally indicate issues. A dog that obsessively licks another dog may be exhibiting compulsive behavior driven by anxiety. If the receiving dog shows signs of irritation, moves away repeatedly, or growls, the licking is unwelcome and the initiating dog is not reading social cues well. Excessive ear or wound licking by a companion dog can create health problems for the recipient. If the licking seems one-sided, compulsive, or is causing physical issues, redirecting the behavior and providing alternative outlets for the licking dog is appropriate.