Dog licking other dogs eyes. It looks strange to us, but in the canine world, licking another dog’s face (including the delicate eye area) carries specific social meaning and serves practical purposes. Humans have a lot of unusual quirks that are unique to our species. Why does my dog lick my eyes? Dogs lick your eyes for reasons as diverse liking the salty taste when you cry, being affectionate, grooming you, obsessive compulsive disorder, or even a medical problems relating to constant licking. Allowing another dog to get so close indicates that they feel safe and secure around each other. So why do dogs lick each other’s eyes? There may be different causes for your four-legged friend to do this. One behavior that some dog owners may find surprising is when their furry friend licks their eyes. But all of these strange behaviors have reasons behind them. Way back when before we began to domesticate dogs they were pack animals and ear licking between dogs derives its origins from those past times. May 25, 2023 · Why does my dog lick my other dogs eyes and ears? When two dogs are on friendly terms as part of the same family, they become very comfortable grooming each other. In other words, mutual grooming. Jun 12, 2023 · Why do dogs lick people? There are many reasons why dogs lick your face, hands, lets, feet, and ears. Spread of Germs: While dogs groom each other, if Sep 23, 2023 · Affection and Bonding Some furry friends will lick another dog's eye, ears, and entire face to show the signs of affection. However, if the licking is rough, too frequent, or if the licked dog shows distress, it can be problematic. Although licking is a defensive mechanism, it could lead in the long term to infection, inflammation and delayed healing. Nov 13, 2024 · Have you noticed your dog licking the ears of your other dog? Read more to learn about your dog’s behavior and why this is a common behavior. Feb 16, 2023 · Trying to find out why does my dog lick other dogs' faces? Here you can find out easily why that’s happening and how to fix the problem. Jun 27, 2023 · Dogs engage in many behaviors that humans find puzzling, and one of the most intriguing is eye-licking. […] When your dog starts licking this ball, it rotates. Jul 25, 2023 · A range of factors could explain why dogs lick each other’s eyes, including grooming, submission, bonding, and simply enjoying the taste. If your dog has a tendency to lick another pet's inner ears, it could be a sign of a compulsive disorder. Dogs may also lick each other’s eyes as a way to groom and clean them. Here's why you should schedule a visit to the vet. Dec 11, 2023 · Wondering why dogs lick other dogs' eyes? It could be related to communication, grooming, bonding or dogs just like the taste of tears! Sep 6, 2020 · Why do dogs lick other dogs’ eyes or mouths? If you have more than one dog, like me, you might have noticed your dog licking the eyes or mouth of your other dog. 1. Dog saliva contains antiseptic properties, which is why dogs instinctively lick their own and each other's wounds. Dogs may also lick another dog’s eyes as a sign of submission. Have you ever noticed your dog licking your other dog’s ears and wondered why they do itIt’s a common behavior among dogs, but what exactly does it meanIn this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind why dogs lick each other’s ears, as well as some interesting trends related to the topic. This behavior starts early in life, when moms lick their pups to stimulate bowel and bladder movement, and to clean their young. Seeing your dog Oct 20, 2025 · Licking is a normal behavior in most dogs, dogs lick each other's ears for diverse reasons, we review them and give you tips to prevent this from being a concern. Knowing these reasons can help dog owners recognize when the behavior is harmless or when it might be time to consult a professional. Apr 22, 2023 · 0 Dogs lick each other as a way of socialization and submission, but physical problems, fear, or anxiety may also need to be considered, especially if the licking behavior increases. Feb 7, 2018 · A dog licking another dog's ears is, in the canine world, a natural greeting. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind dogs’ ear-licking behavior and provide helpful suggestions on how to address and manage your dog’s obsessive ear-licking tendencies towards other dogs. – Eye licking is a sign of affection and bonding, helping to establish and maintain social connections. There can be many reason for this, but one thing is common to all of the causes and that is the fact that their little faces need to be cleaned. Dec 19, 2023 · Dog Licking Is Their Way of Grooming Dogs use their tongues to groom everything—either directly or by licking a paw and rubbing places they can’t get with their tongue, like their eyes. This behavior can be confusing to pet owners, leaving many wondering why their dogs engage in it. Dogs are known for their quirky behavior, but one particularly puzzling habit that many dog owners have observed is when one dog licks another dog's mouth. Showing affection can help enforce the bond between two dogs, making eye-licking behavior a standard part of their everyday routine. Why do dogs lick other dogs’ ears? Dogs lick other dogs’ ears for reasons such as it’s a form of greeting, liking earwax, being submissive, grooming, showing affection, or having a compulsive disorder. Jul 17, 2025 · The Impact on the Dog Being Licked Generally, mild and occasional eye licking by another dog is harmless. As with any other big guardian dog, responsible breeding and early socialization with people and other dogs is vital. Why Do Dogs Lick Each Other’s Eyes? Top 6 Reasons 1. Why Does My Dog Lick My Eyes Dogs are known for their affectionate nature, often showing their love for their owners through various gestures such as wagging their tails, giving kisses, and cuddling. Why does my dog lick my eyes, nose, and ears? Dog licking is usually interpreted as an expression of affection. Feb 11, 2026 · Ever wondered why your dog licks your face? Learn about 6 common reasons, when it's not safe, and how to stop it. Dec 11, 2023 · Wondering why dogs lick other dogs' eyes? It could be related to communication, grooming, bonding or dogs just like the taste of tears! US border czar Tom Homan is in charge of deploying Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to airports on Monday. However, there are actually several reasons why dogs lick each other’s mouths, and understanding these reasons can help pet owners better understand Dec 6, 2021 · If you’re a dog owner, you’re accustomed to occasionally witnessing some questionable behavior like dogs licking each others’ ears. Aug 13, 2023 · Here’s why dogs lick other dogs ears and eyes, and what it means about your pet. Credit: Rachel Haines – Eye Em | Getty Images Dogs explore the world using their incredible sense of smell and their tongues. If your cattle dog has as much energy as my catahoula than more exercise might help cut back on the eye licking if it's a "play with me" type of thing. Mar 10, 2024 · Grooming Help: Dogs lick each other’s ears as part of their grooming process, helping to clean hard-to-reach spots. As long as the dog he’s licking isn’t growling, barking or acting upset, you and the dogs are fine. Aug 22, 2022 · Why do dogs lick each others eyes? It can be due to many reasons like greetings, stress or it can be licking due to an infection which will be explained later in this blog. Dog Specialist: Dr Scott Nimmo Thank you for your question. Feb 27, 2026 · Why Dogs Lick Pee How to Stop this Behavior Is This Bad for Dogs? Why Dogs Lick Other Dogs’ Pee As disturbing as it is, your dog’s strange habit of licking pee is more common than you might think. A unique sign that your dog has encountered happiness or is very excited is: licking other dogs’ faces. In some cases, it can also help to spread scent from the glands around their eyes, helping to strengthen the bond between the two dogs. Grooming Dogs lick themselves in order to groom their hair, but they can’t reach places like their eyes, ears and, face. Read on to learn what’s behind this odd behavior and whether or not it is safe. Dog Licking Other Dogs Ears Dogs are known for their quirky and sometimes puzzling behaviors, and one of the most common behaviors that can leave pet owners scratching their heads is when a dog licks another dog’s ears. If not, this discharge can lead to infection of the skin surrounding the eyes. Among the many places dogs lick, the eyes of other dogs might seem unusual or even concerning to humans. In this post, we’ll discuss some of those reasons and provide tips on how to stop the behavior from continuing. Licking that is more than grooming , exploring their world or showing affection should be considered excessive. The 5 Likely Reasons Dogs Lick Each Other’s Eyes 1. Dogs are known for their unique behaviors, and one common behavior that dog owners often witness is dogs licking each other’s mouths. Here's what to know about licking in dogs. Why do dogs lick? It's not uncommon for a dog to lick because of behavioral reasons rather than medical reasons. Homan told CNN's Dana Bash that agents will assist with security at entrances We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Sep 27, 2019 · If your dog is licking your face, you are likely wondering what is driving this behavior. Hmmm. Dominance display: One of the reasons a dog may lick another dog’s ears is to assert Feb 26, 2026 · Why Is My Dog Licking Themselves Excessively? There are many causes of excessive licking in dogs. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Nov 26, 2022 · When you observe the behavior, it’s hard not to wonder, “why does my dog lick my other dog’s ears?” There are many reasons dogs sometimes lick other dogs’ ears, but luckily, most are just because dogs are social and affectionate animals. To directly address your inquiry: Generally, a dog licking another dog's eye is unlikely to cause harm. Apr 11, 2025 · In this article, we’re going to explore mouth-licking behavior in dogs in three cases: puppies licking their mother’s mouth, dog moms licking their offspring, and adult dogs licking each other. This is especially common between puppies and their mothers. Oct 17, 2017 · Obsessive licking of one dog by another can mean a medical problem brewing or nothing. Potential for Irritation: Constant or rough licking could potentially irritate the delicate tissues of the eye or surrounding skin. Sign of Affection: Ear licking is a natural behavior that starts from puppyhood, showing affection and bonding between dogs. This behavior can be confusing and even concerning for some pet owners, as it may seem strange or unsanitary. By teaching your dog the “leave it” command, you can redirect their attention away from other dogs’ ears and onto something more appropriate. Let’s find out! We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. At first, I was wondering what was the point of this system instead of a regular bowl. Feb 2, 2025 · Ever noticed your furry friend engaging in a friendly face-licking session with another dog? While it might seem peculiar to us, this behavior is a fundamental aspect of canine communication and social interaction. This may seem like a strange thing for them to do, but there are actually several reasons why they might do it. Nov 19, 2024 · Does your dog obsessively lick other dogs? Why do they lick each others' privates, ears, and mouths? Find out some explanations for this odd behavior. The main reason dogs lick each other’s eyes is for grooming. Becoming acquainted: another reason your dog may lick your eyes is to get acquainted with you. Sep 10, 2025 · Related Video: "Why Do Dogs Lick Other Dogs' Mouths?" by Dog Discoveries Main Points – Dogs licking each other’s eyes is a natural grooming behavior that serves multiple purposes, including hygiene maintenance and social communication. When dogs groom themselves or each other, they are drawn to a scent like ear You may find it odd that Rascal tends to lick any dog he comes into contact with, but it’s a means of communicating good will to other canines. I would recommend to keep them separated and if necessary a buster collar for your dog with sore would be needed. Submission and Deference One of the ways in which adult dogs communicate is by licking each other’s faces. If you are a returning subscriber, thanks for coming back, and if you are a new subscriber, my name is Mrs. You might also ask if there's eye drops you can put in your other dogs eyes to help prevent infection. Licking is a multifaceted behavior that serves numerous purposes in canine communication and social bonding. – Exchanging gentle licks on each other’s eyes Dogs lick each other’s eyes as a form of social communication, grooming, and bonding. It could also be part of their grooming regimen, a sign of compulsive disorder, idleness, or love for May 25, 2023 · Why does my dog lick my other dogs eyes and ears? When two dogs are on friendly terms as part of the same family, they become very comfortable grooming each other. Dogs will sometimes lick faces during rough play too—especially if they’re the boss and assert their dominance. Jul 5, 2022 · One such behavior is male dogs licking the privates of other male dogs. When your dog starts licking this ball, it rotates. Does your dog lick another dog's ears? Learn the possible reasons your dog has a habit of licking other dogs' ears. Understanding why dogs lick each other's faces can provide valuable insights into their world and strengt Oct 4, 2024 · Heidi Meborg/Pexels Licking sensitive areas like the face, ears, or even wounds demonstrates a high level of trust between dogs. Why will my dog lick other dog ears, faces, privates, and muzzles? Different types of dog licking serve as proof that dogs have emotions, just like humans do. Spread of Germs: While dogs groom each other, if Aug 22, 2022 · Why do dogs lick each others eyes? It can be due to many reasons like greetings, stress or it can be licking due to an infection which will be explained later in this blog. Some dogs have more ocular discharge and/or tear production than others. The licking behavior is more likely if the other dog also licks your dog’s eyes and your dog is obliged to return the favor. Your vet will try to determine the underlying cause, such as a skin condition, pain, and other medical issues, or, less commonly, a behavioral issue. Oct 29, 2025 · Dogs can also use licking to show submission and reinforce social bonds with their human owner or another dog. Discover why dogs lick human faces and several strategies to reduce the behavior. – Exchanging gentle licks on each other’s eyes Dec 3, 2025 · Trying to bond with the other dog? There are a few reasons why a dog may lick another dog’s eye, and in this post, we’ll explore each potential reason in more depth. The Dog Food Advisor's unbiased dog food reviews and ratings searchable by brand or star rating. It could also be that they’re being anxious, bonding with the others or the other dog has an ear infection. Aug 9, 2024 · Learn why dogs lick their paws, how to tell if it's excessive, what you can do to prevent it, and when to seek veterinary intervention. . Find the best dry, canned or raw food for your dog. Trust-building is a critical part of canine relationships, and licking plays a big role in establishing this mutual A dog can’t lick its own face so other dogs will often lick their faces for them. Aug 28, 2024 · Have you ever seen your dog licking another dog's ear? Is this a normal behavior? Learn why do dogs lick each other's ears in this article. It's important to keep an eye on obsessive licking. The reason why your dog licks your other dog’s face could be that it is helping your other dog to groom itself. Pronunciation - Connie Corso Jul 25, 2023 · A range of factors could explain why dogs lick each other’s eyes, including grooming, submission, bonding, and simply enjoying the taste. And when the ball rotates, it brings whatever you put into the bowl to the surface, thanks to the grooves present all around the ball’s surface. While this behavior may seem strange to us, it is actually quite common among dogs and can serve a variety of purposes. A dog can’t lick its own face so other dogs will often lick their faces for them. Dec 3, 2025 · Trying to bond with the other dog? There are a few reasons why a dog may lick another dog’s eye, and in this post, we’ll explore each potential reason in more depth. The Fascinating Behavior of Eye Licking Among Dogs Dogs use their mouths for much more than eating or playing. Sep 13, 2023 · Moreover, continuous licking of another dog’s ears may worsen any existing ear infection that the other dog might have. When considered excessive, licking can cause harm to the underlying skin, or can be compulsive and difficult to curb. Oct 16, 2025 · Why do dogs lick each other’s mouths? It may look gross, but it’s actually ancient dog language, from greetings, bonding and more. Dog’s saliva contains traces of antibiotical and antimicrobial elements, which help clean dirt and germs from the skin. A few other reasons for this behavior include submission, bonding, and obsessive behavior. Some dogs occasionally lick other dogs’ eyes, while others seem to do it with great frequency. For this reason, dogs lick each other’s faces to help each other. Mar 4, 2024 · Dog owners may observe numerous traits their pets have, which are confusing. Training: One of the most effective ways to stop a dog from licking other dogs’ ears is through training. Licking other dogs’ mouths is specifically how an individual dog lets the other know that they are submissive and see them as superior. Boredom: dogs that don’t receive enough exercise each day may also start licking you and other things, including your eyes. xydxe jxm wdaohio ulgxj bpbyck lwwm vprxy oql rqg xruoq