You’re lounging in your living room, enjoying an afternoon with your beloved dogs when you notice something. One of your dogs has taken to licking your other dog’s mouth. At first, you might brush it off as cute or endearing, but after a while, you start to wonder: why is my dog licking my other dog’s mouth?
Table of Contents:
– Understanding Canine Communication
– The Alpha and Omega: Explaining Hierarchical Behavior
– Health Concerns: When to Be Worried
– FAQs
Key Takeaways:
– Dogs use mouth licking as a form of communication.
– This behavior can indicate submission or respect.
– It can also signal a health issue in certain circumstances.
Understanding Canine Communication
Dogs, just like humans, have their own unique ways of communicating. One of these methods is through licking. When your dog is licking another dog’s mouth, it’s not just some random action; it’s a form of communication. Dogs use mouth licking to express a variety of messages, from respect and submission to affection and playfulness.
This behavior can often be traced back to their wolf ancestry. In the wild, wolves would lick the mouths of their pack leaders as a sign of respect and submission. This behavior has carried over to our domestic dogs. So, when you see your dog licking the mouth of your other dog, it might be showing respect to a senior or more dominant dog. A study from the University of Lethbridge explains this behavior in more detail.
The Alpha and Omega: Explaining Hierarchical Behavior
In the canine world, there’s a unique social structure at play. Dogs, especially when in packs, establish a hierarchical order to maintain harmony within the group. This hierarchy is often established through various behaviors, one of which is mouth licking.
When your dog is licking your other dog’s mouth, they might be acknowledging the other dog’s dominance. This act of submission helps to maintain peace within your ‘pack’. It is very similar to how wolves in the wild behave, as explained in this National Geographic article.
To understand more about dog behaviors, you can also refer to these articles on OneTopDog, OneTopDog, and OneTopDog.
Health Concerns: When to Be Worried
While mouth licking is typically a harmless behavior, there are occasions when it can signal a health issue. If your dog is excessively licking your other dog’s mouth, it might be trying to indicate that the other dog is unwell. Dogs have an incredibly keen sense of smell and can detect changes in their fellow dogs’ health.
If the licking is accompanied by other concerning behaviors such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or changes in behavior, it’s time to consult a vet. It’s crucial to always keep an eye on your dogs’ behaviors and health to ensure they’re in the best possible condition.
FAQs
1. Why does my dog constantly lick my other dog’s mouth?
Constant mouth licking can be a sign of submission, but it may also indicate a health issue. If you notice any changes in your dogs’ behavior or health, it’s best to consult a vet.
2. Is it normal for dogs to lick each other’s mouths?
Yes, it is normal. Dogs use mouth licking as a form of communication.
3. Should I stop my dog from licking my other dog’s mouth?
Generally, there’s no need to stop this behavior unless it becomes excessive or is causing distress to your other dog.
In conclusion, dogs licking each other’s mouths is a common and usually harmless behavior. It’s a form of communication that shows respect, submission, or affection. However, if you notice any changes in behavior or health in your dogs, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
