The more subservient of two animals will typically be the one conducting the most of the licking. This occasionally means that you might be the victim of a satisfying ear slurp.
The Truth Behind Why Dogs Lick Ears
Even though it may sound lovely and scholarly to claim that your dog’s peculiar behaviors are guided by intricate ethological impulses, sometimes dogs are just dogs. Actually, some dogs lick their ears out of social instinct, but there are other possible explanations for why your pet may be fixated on this behavior.
The most frequent cause—and, in typical canine fashion, the grossest—may be that certain dogs may get a taste for ear wax. The somewhat salty secretions of the ear canal may be just the thing to appease your dog’s more refined palette.
Dogs frequently use their tongues to investigate their surroundings, so licking their ears may be just another way for them to learn more about it.
Different animals are more or less interested in ears. If your pet licks frequently, the extra moisture may build up in the canal and cause problems. It is probably advisable to use various diversions to deter the behavior.
For a variety of reasons, dogs lick their ears. This peculiar dog activity is another another example of how our pets keep us on our toes, whether it is because of social structure, grooming behavior, boredom, an ear infection, or a taste for the unusual.
Why is my dog licking my ears so frequently?
Dogs respond to several relatively powerful canine behaviors that have been inherited through many generations. Dogs are extremely sociable pack animals by nature, and a lot of the behaviors they exhibit are a result of the particular ways that dogs interact and communicate.
Your dog may be expressing extreme comfort if it licks your ears. Members of the pack frequently groom one another, so you might be thought of as simply another member of the pack. It’s possible to lick your ears as a symbol of affection, caring, and respect. In other words, your dog is complimenting you when they kiss your ears!
Is It Gross?
It might not be best for everyone to just let your dog lick your ears whenever they feel like it.
Yes, it might be acceptable if they sneak a slurp in while hugging you. However, some dogs who frequently eat the ears could actually be drawn to the taste and smell of earwax. Additionally, any salt they absorb from the skin around them can make them feel more content.
Redirect That Tongue
Positive reinforcement training methods are accepted by dogs. This implies that kids are more likely to repeat positive behavior when it is rewarded. Dogs learn not to repeat unwanted or “bad behaviors” by humans not reacting to them.
Keep an open mind if your dog starts to lick your ears. Simply stand up and draw their attention elsewhere. Give them a chance to switch from licking to doing something productive that rewards them. Your dog will stop often licking his ears over time (but only with persistence and patience).
Other Explanations
Dogs use their tongue (after their nose and ears) to explore and attempt to understand their surroundings, therefore it seems logical that they would lick their ears in order to learn more about it.
Another animal’s ears may suddenly catch your attention, requiring additional investigation. An infection’s discharge and odor might be alluring and can provoke compulsive ear licking or cleaning (s). Check to see if frequent or excessive licking is contributing to a moisture or saliva buildup in the ear canal. Other problems may result from this. Once more, make an effort to divert the licking to an enjoyable activity.
When a Dog Licks Your Ears
The fact remains that most of this is typical dog behavior. Having said that, it could be necessary to step in if the conduct crosses the line or is compulsive.
Should you let your dog to lick your ears?
There is no need to interrupt and stop your dog from licking your ears if you don’t mind it. If you both appreciate it, let him lick. Your dog is expressing to you how secure and content he feels.
But not everybody enjoys having their ears licked. Get up and move away from your dog if you’d prefer for him to quit. You can also use a treat or a cheerful suggestion—such as, “Do you want to play ball?—to divert his attention.
Like with all habits, you should stop the licking right away and not wait until it has been going on for a while if you don’t like it. Your dog will move past the behavior more quickly and be less likely to repeat it if you stop it as soon as possible.
Your dog won’t understand what he did wrong if you let him carry while you grow increasingly irritated and eventually yell at him and push him away. Stopping him as soon as he tries to start the behavior is much preferable.
Why are dog ears so appealing to lick?
Some dogs won’t lick their owners’ ears. But that is a behavior that is rather typical. The most obvious explanation for a pet licking your hands, face, ears, or other body parts is affection. It’s just their way of expressing their love for you.
Each dog belongs to a pack. This can be made up of both themselves and other dogs, or only the humans whom the dogs live with. If your dog licks you, it can be a sign that they respect you as the pack leader. It’s also a statement of respect in addition to love.
However, when it comes to licking your ears especially, it may also imply that they taste and smell excellent. And although it’s disgusting to think about, some canines might enjoy the taste of human ear wax. 2
Your Dog’s Behavior And Instincts: They’re “Grooming You When They Lick Your Ears
It’s possible that your pet is grooming you by licking your ears. This relates to the natural behavior that dogs have with other canines in their group. Dogs frequently groom each other. They are unable to clean specific body parts on their own, including the ears. As a result, other pack members aid them. 3
Of course, dogs occasionally indulge in a little excessive grooming. Cleaning the ears of the other dogs in the pack might help them stay away from issues like ear mites. But if they do it excessively, it may cause annoyance and even an ear infection. 4
If you have multiple dogs, you should frequently examine their ears to make sure this isn’t taking place. There is very little likelihood that you will become infected if a dog licks you. However, if you have an issue with your inner ear, never let your dog near this area. The likelihood of a more serious problem emerging is the cause. 5
Ear Licking May Be A Sign Of Submissive Respect
Some dogs may lick the ears of their pet parents out of submission. Dogs may see their parents as the pack’s alpha, as was already established. A dog will correctly express their respect by licking their ears (or elsewhere). 6
Your dog is letting you know they are okay with you being in charge when they lick you, especially around the face. You may say that you are the leader of the pack. Dogs can also demonstrate their submission by squatting, exposing their bellies, or tucking their tails between their legs. 7
When Licking Is A Sign Of A Potential Health Issue
Even though it’s one of the most typical canine behaviors, licking occasionally may indicate a possible health problem.
For instance, a dog with allergies may frequently lick their toes or exhibit itchy skin symptoms, such as chewing. They might be sensitive to dust, pollen in the air, or flea bites. 8
Lip licking is another another sign of additional health problems. It can indicate that your dog has a tummy ache. The same is true if your dog licks your ears, if that’s unusual for them, or any other strange location, like the walls, the floor, a piece of furniture, or your ears. Other symptoms of nausea include excessive drooling and lip biting or smacking. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, notably vomiting and loss of appetite, call your veterinarian right once. 9
Consider speaking to a veterinary behaviorist if your veterinarian indicates there is no health issue but you remain worried about your dog’s excessive licking despite this.
Can You Catch A Disease From Your Dog’s Licking?
Of course, you adore your pet, and you cherish your time spent together. Getting dog kisses, whether on your face, ears, or anywhere else, is a common way of connecting. But on rare occasions, that can result in health problems.
The mouth of a dog does carry microorganisms. It’s possible that these bacteria could occasionally spread to people. As an illustration, the bacteria Pasteurella can infect the skin or lymph nodes. However, the majority of these illnesses are spread by cat scratches rather than dog licks.
Sadly, dogs frequently lick their behinds. Additionally, if they carry pathogens like Campylobacter or Salmonella in their feces, they may occasionally lick humans and expose them to those germs. Though it’s unlikely, it can happen. 11
Reducing The Risks Of Health Problems From Dog Saliva
There are certain things you can take to assist lower the danger even though the likelihood of contracting something unfavorable from puppy kisses and licks (in your ears and elsewhere) is extremely low.
- Do not allow your dog to lick any cuts or sores on your body. Dog saliva can cause an infection but can also kill some types of bacteria.
- Always properly wash your hands after handling your dog, especially if the animal is sick.
- Maintain the best grooming and cleanliness for your dog.
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Why then does your dog enjoy licking your ears? Now that you know, it’s frequently due to their love for you. They wouldn’t have it any other way; you are a member of their pack. Additionally, bear in mind that there is a very low likelihood that a canine kiss or ear lick will ever get you sick. But it won’t harm to take a few easy safeguards.
Study More: What a Dog Growl Is and How to Handle a Dog’s Aggressive Behavior Strange Dog Behavior: Why is My Dog Licking the Floor? Strange Dog Behavior: Weird Puppy Habits and What They Mean
What does licking your ears mean?
Dogs will be dogs, but it’s time for a change when a habit shifts from adorable to somewhat obsessive to obnoxious. One of these peculiar behaviors that dogs have leads owners into fits of confusion, amazement, annoyance, and (hopefully) relief and resolution. You’ve come to the right place if you’re annoyed by this typical dog behavior or no longer have the patience for it.
Not Overly Fussy
Maybe you saw our blog post from earlier today about why dogs lick. This dog’s conduct is indeed typical and natural. Now, your dog might have a tendency to lick all ears or feel drawn to taste-test a certain pet or member of the family. Although dogs frequently lick their ears, there are two reasons why this might happen.
A Complex Dog Behavior
Dogs have a variety of ways to communicate. Dogs communicate with their pack through body language and expressive facial expressions. Another means of communication is ear licking, which is a common way to show affection even though it may appear a little unpleasant. Regardless of species, this dog action unmistakably conveys the messages “I love you” and “we belong to the same pack.”
Additionally, dogs raised with other dogs of the same species or in a household with other dogs have a tendency to groom each other. Nothing is more endearing than seeing your pets groom one another; the ears are just a natural byproduct of the process. Usually, the submissive one will be the one licking as a sign of deference.
Dog Ear Licking: The Yuck Factor
Some dogs have an intrinsic preference for slightly salty ear wax, which can make owners extremely queasy. Another sign of an infection or other issue inside the ear canal is a sudden interest in another animal’s ears. Discharge or pus can have a distinct aroma and flavor that appeals to a dog’s keen senses and can assist you in tending to the requirements of the other animal. If there are any issues, we’re pleased to examine your pet’s ears.
Out of Hand
It’s time to step in when this dog behavior crosses the line into obsession. Increased moisture levels can cause the ear infections in issue, but on a more basic level, it can be very irritating.
Use interactive toys, physical activity, or affection to divert your licking dog. If the dog’s conduct becomes compulsive, kindly let us know as it might require medical attention.
Don’t Despair Over Dog Ear Licking
Keep in mind that your dog is not the only one who uses this method of expression. It’s quite normal, and as long as licking one’s ears doesn’t bother anyone else, it’s regarded as a characteristic of dogs in general.
Dog behavior is always fascinating, despite the fact that it may be incredibly baffling. Our team is here to you if you need assistance figuring out why you’re licking your ears.
Why do you think your dog loves you?
You can know if your dog is loving you by looking for the following signs:
They can’t wait to see you. This scene is one that all dog owners have seen. When you open your front entrance, a playful fur storm greets you. It’s possible that your dog will leap up on you, lick your face, and wag its tail. One way to know someone loves and misses you is by their excitement and joy when they see you.
They want to be touched. The infamous lean, a short nuzzle, or a cuddle are all examples of this. These are all indications that your dog wants to demonstrate affection. The best course of action is to let them complete this on their own terms, so resist the impulse to tightly hug them.
They wish to rest close to you. Dogs naturally sleep adjacent to each other in packs. They put their noses to the breeze to detect any odors that might indicate danger. Your dog is expressing trust and security when it curls up next to you or wants to sleep in your room.
They look at you sweetly. Dogs reserve the ability to maintain eye contact with someone they love and trust since it is a huge move. Direct eye contact is an aggressive action in the wild. They employ this strategy to scare one another and assert their supremacy. Your dog is staring affectionately in your direction when they meet your right in the eyes and maintain eye contact without their pupils expanding.
They inquire after you. cooking, watching TV, and using the restroom Your dog tries to be there for you throughout the entire experience. Your dog might visit you in bed once or they might follow you around the home all the time. One of the many ways your dog displays affection is by checking in on you. They are checking on your wellbeing!
When they lick you. There are a variety of reasons why your dog might lick you, but in the end, it’s always out of affection. They want to talk to you and get your attention. They can be getting ready to play or simply giving a kiss before a snuggle. They want to let you know they care in either case.
Their toys are shared. When your dog wants to play, they may occasionally tease you with their toy, but when they truly want to show their love, they’ll give it to you as a gift. They want to give the person they care about their most precious thing. It certainly sounds like a lot of love.
Only when there is food involved are you second. A dog that loves you will put you before everything—even a full bowl of food. Only then will they fall head over heels in love with anything else.
