Why do dogs lick each other?

By HotBotUpdated: August 10, 2024

Introduction to Canine Licking Behavior

Dogs licking each other is a behavior often observed by pet owners and animal enthusiasts alike. This seemingly simple act is laden with complex social, biological, and psychological implications. Understanding why dogs lick each other requires delving into their evolutionary history, social structures, and even individual personalities.

Evolutionary Background

Dogs, like their wild ancestors—the wolves—have retained many behaviors that are essential for their survival and social cohesion. Licking is one such behavior. Among wolves, licking serves several critical functions such as establishing social hierarchies, reinforcing bonds, and even in the care of young pups. These evolutionary roots have carried over into domestic dogs, manifesting in various forms and serving multiple purposes.

Social Bonding and Pack Dynamics

In the canine world, social structure and hierarchy are paramount. Licking helps to reinforce these social bonds. When dogs lick each other, it can be a way to show affection and foster a stronger pack mentality. This behavior can often be observed between dogs that live together or are part of the same social group.

Sign of Submission

Licking can also be a sign of submission. In a pack, subordinate dogs might lick more dominant members to show their lower status and avoid conflicts. This licking is usually directed towards the face or muzzle of the dominant dog, a gesture that communicates respect and acknowledgment of the social hierarchy.

Reinforcement of Bonds

Beyond hierarchy, licking also plays a role in reinforcing bonds between dogs. This is particularly evident in mother-pup relationships. Mother dogs lick their pups to clean them, stimulate bodily functions, and provide comfort. Pups often reciprocate or instinctively lick their mother as a form of bonding and reliance.

Communication and Information Gathering

Dogs have an acute sense of smell, and licking is one way they gather information. When dogs lick each other, they are not just exchanging affection; they are also obtaining sensory data about each other.

Olfactory Information

A dog's tongue can pick up subtle scents and pheromones from the skin and fur of another dog. This olfactory information can tell a dog a lot about the other, including their health, emotional state, and even what they have been eating. This is an essential part of canine communication that goes beyond what humans can perceive.

Health and Well-being

Licking can also be a way for dogs to check on each other’s health. Dogs are intuitive creatures, and they often know when another dog is not feeling well. Licking can be a comforting gesture, offering solace to an ailing companion. In some cases, dogs might lick wounds to clean them, although this behavior can sometimes cause more harm than good if not monitored.

Psychological Factors

Licking can also have a psychological component. It can be a self-soothing behavior that helps dogs feel more secure and less anxious. When dogs lick each other, it can be a mutual stress-relief exercise, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

Comfort and Security

Just as humans might hug or hold hands to feel closer to someone, dogs use licking to achieve a similar sense of comfort and security. This is particularly evident in situations where dogs might feel nervous or stressed, such as during a thunderstorm or when introduced to a new environment.

Attention-Seeking

Some dogs lick each other simply to get attention. This can be seen in multi-dog households where one dog might lick another to initiate play or interaction. It's a way to say, "Hey, I'm here, and I want to connect with you."

Environmental and Situational Triggers

The environment in which dogs find themselves can also influence licking behavior. Certain triggers can prompt dogs to lick each other more frequently or intensely.

Change in Environment

A sudden change in the environment, such as moving to a new home or introducing a new pet, can lead to increased licking as dogs seek to re-establish their social bonds and find comfort in each other.

Feeding Times

Licking can also be associated with feeding times. In the wild, wolves regurgitate food to feed their young, and this behavior has been observed in domestic dogs as well. This regurgitation is often preceded by licking around the mouth area, signaling a request for food. While domestic dogs don't usually regurgitate food, the licking behavior can still be seen, especially when dogs are excited about feeding times.

Niche Subtopics and Rarely Known Details

While the above reasons cover the broad strokes, there are some lesser-known and niche aspects of why dogs lick each other that are worth exploring.

Grooming and Parasite Control

Licking can also serve as a grooming behavior. Dogs may lick each other to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as the ears or around the eyes. This mutual grooming helps maintain hygiene and can also aid in the removal of parasites like ticks and fleas.

Endorphin Release

Licking can trigger the release of endorphins in a dog's brain, creating a feeling of pleasure and relaxation. This endorphin release can make licking a rewarding behavior, both for the licker and the lickee. Over time, this can create a positive feedback loop, encouraging dogs to lick each other more frequently.

Unique Cases of Excessive Licking

In some cases, excessive licking can be a sign of underlying issues. Dogs that lick each other excessively might be dealing with anxiety, boredom, or even medical conditions. It’s essential for pet owners to observe their dogs' behavior and consult a veterinarian if they notice anything unusual.

The behavior of dogs licking each other is rooted in a complex interplay of evolutionary, social, psychological, and environmental factors. From reinforcing social bonds to gathering information, licking serves multiple purposes that are integral to canine life. Each lick carries its own set of meanings and implications, painting a rich tapestry of interaction that speaks volumes about the intricacies of dog behavior.

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