If you’ve ever watched dogs interact, you’ve likely seen them licking each other—sometimes on the face, ears or even in places you’d rather not think about. While it may seem strange to us, licking is a natural behavior that serves several purposes for dogs. It can be a sign of affection, a way to establish social hierarchy or even just a method of gathering information about another dog. Understanding why they do it can help you determine what’s normal and when it might be a concern.
Where Do Dogs Lick Each Other?
Dogs don’t just lick at random—each area they target has its own meaning.
Face Licking
One of the most common places dogs lick one another is the face. This is often a sign of submission and respect, particularly among dogs who live together. Puppies lick their mother’s face to encourage feeding and adult dogs continue this behavior to acknowledge a more dominant dog. In some cases, face licking is simply an affectionate greeting, much like a human hug or handshake.
Ear Licking
Dogs may lick each other’s ears as a form of bonding or grooming. Since ears can accumulate dirt and wax, licking helps keep them clean. However, if one dog obsessively licks another’s ears, it might be worth checking for infections, as some dogs are drawn to the smell of an infected ear.
Butt Licking
As gross as it seems to us, dogs licking each other’s behinds is completely normal. Dogs rely on scent to communicate, and the area around a dog’s rear end holds a wealth of information about their health, diet and even emotional state. A quick lick or sniff is just a way of saying hello and getting to know each other better.
Private Area Licking
Dogs sometimes lick each other’s privates as part of their social interactions. While this behavior can seem awkward, it’s often just another way dogs gather information about each other. However, excessive licking in this area can indicate health problems such as infections or irritation, so it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Do Dogs Kiss Each Other?
While dogs don’t “kiss” in the same way humans do, face licking can be their version of showing affection. Wolves and other wild canines groom each other as a way of reinforcing social bonds and domestic dogs have carried this behavior into their interactions with both humans and other dogs.
In many cases, when a dog licks another’s face, they’re saying, “I like you,” “I respect you” or “Let’s be friends.” However, licking can also be a way for a more submissive dog to show deference to a dominant one.
Why Does My Dog Lick My Other Dog?
If you live in a multi-dog household, you might notice that one dog frequently licks the other. This behavior can be triggered by several factors:
- Affection – Dogs lick each other as a way of strengthening their bond. It’s a sign that they trust and care for one another.
- Grooming – Some dogs take on a motherly role and clean other dogs, especially if they’re younger or unable to groom themselves well.
- Submission – In packs, submissive dogs will often lick dominant ones as a sign of respect and deference.
- Stress or Anxiety – Licking can be a self-soothing behavior. If one of your dogs is feeling anxious, they might lick another dog excessively as a coping mechanism.
What to Do About Excessive Licking
While licking is a normal and natural behavior, excessive licking can become a problem, especially if it leads to skin irritation or if one dog seems annoyed by it. If your dog is licking another dog excessively, consider taking these steps:
- Check for medical issues – If a dog keeps licking a particular spot on another dog, it could indicate a wound, infection or skin irritation. A vet visit can help rule out any health concerns.
- Redirect the behavior – Offer a chew toy or engage them in play to distract them from licking. Positive reinforcement can help reduce the habit over time.
- Separate them if needed – If one dog seems irritated by the licking, it’s okay to separate them briefly to give them a break.
- Consult a vet or trainer – If the licking is compulsive and hard to stop, a professional can help identify the underlying cause and provide guidance on managing it.
Understanding Your Dog’s Licking Behavior
Licking is a natural part of dog communication, whether it’s a way to show affection, establish hierarchy or simply gather information. While most licking is harmless, excessive licking may indicate underlying issues that need attention. By understanding why dogs lick each other and where they focus their licking, you can better interpret your pup’s behavior and ensure they’re both happy and healthy.
If your dog’s licking ever seems out of control, causes irritation or becomes obsessive, it’s always a good idea to check with a vet to make sure it is not the result of something more serious.
