Dogs lick each other's ears primarily for reasons related to social bonding, grooming, communication, and affection. This behavior is rooted in their pack instincts where licking serves as a way to greet, groom, and show submission or respect among pack members. Licking helps dogs clean each other's ears since they cannot reach them easily themselves. It is also a way for dogs to bond and show trust and friendship. Additionally, dogs may lick ears because they like the taste of earwax, or as a soothing behavior, and sometimes because they detect ear infections or irritation in the other dog and instinctively try to help.
Key reasons include:
- Grooming and hygiene: Removing dirt, debris, and earwax.
- Social bonding: Showing affection, submission, or reinforcing social hierarchy.
- Self-soothing behavior: Licking can calm anxiety or relieve boredom.
- Detecting and addressing infections: Dogs may sense infections and lick to assist.
- Enjoying the taste of earwax: Some dogs are drawn to the salty taste.
Overall, licking ears is a normal canine behavior with complex social and instinctual meanings. It may be beneficial to monitor the behavior to ensure it does not become excessive or indicate health problems.