If you’ve ever caught your dog sneaking in a lick to your ear—or another dog’s—you’re not alone. Many dog owners have seen this odd yet strangely affectionate behavior. While it might seem gross to us humans, licking ears is actually a common behavior among dogs, and it often tells us more than we think.
So, why do dogs like to lick ears? The answer ranges from natural grooming instincts to more serious concerns like obsessive licking due to anxiety or even detecting an underlying medical issue. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this behavior and what you can do if it becomes excessive.
Is Ear Licking Normal Dog Behavior?
The short answer? Yes—occasional ear licking is usually normal.
Dogs are pack animals, and in the wild, mutual grooming helps maintain social bonds. Just as wolves or wild dogs groom their pack members, our pets do the same. Licking is one of their primary ways to communicate affection, submission, or attention. That includes licking other’s ears or even licking your ears when they’re close to your face.
But while occasional ear licking between two dogs (or even from your pup to your ear) is typically harmless, it can sometimes lead
to issues if it becomes compulsive licking or starts irritating the skin.
Why Dogs Like to Lick Ears: 6 Common Reasons
Let’s break down the most likely explanations behind this quirky habit:
1. Natural Grooming Behavior
Dogs are wired to keep themselves—and others in their pack—clean. If you’ve got two dogs at home, you’ve probably seen one dog lick the other's ears regularly. This isn’t random; it’s part of their grooming behavior.
In the wild, areas like the ears are hard to reach, so submissive dogs or companions step in to help. Think of it like one dog saying, “Hey buddy, you missed a spot.”
2. Ear Wax Smells Like a Snack
Let’s be honest—dogs love gross things. That includes the smell and taste of ear wax. To a dog, ear wax may smell like a little snack packed with salty, fatty goodness.
Combine this with their powerful sense of smell, and it’s no surprise that they find your or another dog’s ears irresistible. While we find it off-putting, for many dogs, it’s a sensory delight.
3. Affection and Bonding
Licking is one of the most affectionate gestures in the dog world. Puppies lick their mothers, older dogs groom puppies, and some dogs lick their humans to express love.
If your dog is licking your ears, they might just be trying to show affection. It’s a behavior they picked up early in life an
d carried into adulthood. They’re essentially saying, “You’re part of my family.”
4. Submission and Respect
In dog-to-dog interactions, licking ears can be a show of respect. Submissive dogs often lick more dominant ones to display deference and avoid confrontation. This body language tells the other dog, “You’re in charge.”
If one dog in your home is consistently licking the other dog’s ears, it might be their way of saying, “I respect you.”
5. Boredom or Anxiety
Sometimes, licking becomes obsessive. If your dog licks ears constantly, especially when nothing else is happening, it might be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or lack of stimulation.
Just like some humans bite their nails, dogs may resort to compulsive licking when they’re stressed. Pay attention to when the behavior occurs. Is it after being left alone? During loud noises? These clues can lead you to the root cause.
6. Detecting an Ear Infection or Medical Issue
Here’s where things get serious: Some dogs may lick another dog’s ears because they detect something wrong. Their powerful noses can pick up the scent of an ear infection, inflammation, or even pain in the ear canal.
If your dog suddenly becomes obsessed with licking another’s ears—or if they won’t stop licking your ears—they could be alerting you to an underlying medical issue.
Watch for signs like:
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Redness or swelling in the ear
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Head shaking or pawing at the ear
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Foul odor
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Whining when the ear is touched
In such cases, it’s best to consult a vet right away.
When Licking Becomes a Problem
While licking ears can be a sign of love, too much of it can lead to problems. Excessive licking might irritate the skin or even cause infections. Repeated wetness in the ear creates a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.
If you notice:
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Obsessive licking
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Raw or red skin around the ears
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Behavioral changes like restlessness or agitation
How to Stop Excessive Ear Licking
If your dog’s licking is getting out of hand, here’s how you can address it:
1. Redirect with Interactive Toys
Boredom is a major cause of compulsive licking. Keep your pup busy with interactive toys, chew items, or puzzle feeders.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Whenever your dog stops licking ears on command, reward them with a treat or praise. Over time, they’ll associate NOT licking with good things.
3. Monitor and Separate
If one dog keeps bothering the other with constant ear licks, try giving them breaks. Separate them when the behavior becomes too much or interrupts play.
4. Clean Ears Regularly
Sometimes dogs lick because ears are dirty. Keep your dog’s ears clean using vet-approved wipes or solutions. Never insert anything into the ear canal.
5. Visit the Vet
If you suspect an infection or behavioral issue, a vet can help rule out medical causes and suggest behavior modification techniques or anxiety relief options.
Final Thoughts: Should You Worry About Dog Ear Licking?
Licking ears is a quirky but generally harmless part of dog behavior. For many dogs, it’s about affection, bonding, or good old-fashioned curiosity. But as with all dog behaviors, moderation is key.
If your dog is licking a bit too much, or you suspect something more serious, don’t ignore it. Watch for signs, consult a vet, and don’t hesitate to get help if needed.
At the end of the day, dogs use their mouths to explore, connect, and care—and sometimes, that just happens to include your ears!
