Dog lovers around the world have long been intrigued by the behaviors of our four-legged friends. One of the most common, yet perplexing behaviors, is when dogs lick each other. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the reasons behind this behavior, so you can better understand your furry friends.
1. Social Bonding
Like humans, dogs are social animals. They crave connection and companionship, and licking is one way they bond with each other. When your dog licks another dog, it’s their way of saying, “Hey, let’s be friends.”
- Dogs often lick each other’s faces and ears, which can seem strange to us but is perfectly normal for them.
- Puppies, in particular, are known to lick older dogs as an act of submission and to show respect.
2. Grooming
Dogs lick each other as a form of grooming. Wild dogs do this to help each other stay clean and healthy. Your domesticated dog may still carry this instinct.
- Dogs are unable to use their paws for grooming like cats do, so they use their tongues instead.
- Licking can help remove dirt, bugs, and other unwanted stuff from their fur.
3. Healing
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “A dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s.” While that’s not entirely true, dogs do have certain enzymes in their saliva that can help heal wounds.
| Benefits of a Dog’s Lick | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cleans the wound | Removes debris |
| Enzymes in saliva | Can kill certain bacteria |
| Encourages blood flow | Speeds up healing process |
4. Stress Relief
Licking can also serve as a stress reliever for dogs. Just like humans may bite their nails or twirl their hair when anxious, dogs may lick each other or themselves when they’re feeling stressed or anxious.
- Keep an eye on your dogs if they’re licking each other excessively. This could be a sign that they’re stressed and need some extra care.
5. Communication
Finally, dogs lick each other to communicate. Dogs have a complex system of communication that includes a range of vocalizations, body language, and yes, licking.
- A lick can mean many things. It can be a sign of submission, a request for attention, or a way to say, “I’m sorry.”
FAQ
Q: Is it bad if dogs lick each other too much?
A: Excessive licking can be a sign of stress or anxiety. If you notice this, it’s worth discussing with your vet.
Q: Can dogs get sick from licking each other?
A: Generally, it’s safe. However, if one dog has an infection or illness, it could potentially be passed on.
Q: Why does my dog lick my other dog’s ears?
A: This can be a form of grooming or a sign of affection.
Q: Should I stop my dogs from licking each other?
A: Not unless it’s causing a problem. If it’s not hurting them and they seem to enjoy it, it’s perfectly fine.
In conclusion, when dogs lick each other, they are simply communicating and bonding in their own unique way. As a caregiver, understanding these behaviors can help you better connect with your furry friends.
