Ask a Vet: Why is My Dog Licking Ears?

Our canine companions are known for having many cute, quirky, and sometimes even bizarre behaviors. Many of them stem from some evolutionary behavior or communication mechanism. Others are just unique to the family dog.

You may have noticed your dog licking another dog's ears, a cat, or even a human in the household. This borderline gross behavior is not uncommon among dogs, but most pet owners have to wonder why their dog is licking their ears. There are two possible answers to this age-old question.

Ear licking is a complex canine behavior

Dogs are pack animals, meaning that most of their day-to-day activities involve some form of communication. The ever-changing social structure in a pack makes it necessary that dogs are good communicators.

Two dogs who are close friends or family members often engage in mutual grooming. The ears are a place that can get pretty dirty, and dogs are unable to groom them on their own. If you see a dog licking ears, whether they belong to another dog, a cat, or even you, he or she is saying two things:

• I am comfortable with you and accept you as part of my pack.

• I respect and love you.

Many times, the more submissive dog of the two animals will be the one doing the licking, as it is a sign of respect and admiration. Next time you get an earful of tongue from your pooch, remember it just means he adores you!

Your dog is licking its ears because dogs can be gross

Sometimes, however, ear licking goes back to another innate dog behavior: being a little bit disgusting sometimes. Some dogs develop a penchant for the taste of earwax. Who needs a peanut butter-filled Kong when your kitty friend has an ear canal full of wax?

Earwax is a little on the salty side and can make a tasty treat for pooches with a sophisticated palate. Other dogs are attracted to the change in smell (and probably taste) of the discharge in an ear when there is an infection present. A sudden interest in another pet’s ears may indicate there is a problem in the ear canal.

Dogs depend on their mouths to experience the world, and ear licking is one way of exploring. If the behavior is excessive, though, you do need to be careful. Sometimes, continued moisture in an ear can contribute to an ear infection, so it is best to discourage more than the occasional lick.

How to stop a dog from obsessive licking behavior?

While some ear licking is totally normal, a dog may go overboard, leaving the other pet’s ears constantly wet with saliva. For any dog owner, this can be concerning, especially if the behavior becomes nonstop.

If ear licking becomes a problem, try these tips at home to redirect the behavior:

• Distract with toys: Offer interactive or chew toys to shift your dog’s focus.

• Use positive reinforcement: Praise and reward your dog when they stop licking on command.

• Keep pets separated during rest time: If licking happens most when pets are lounging, try giving them separate spaces.

• Increase exercise and stimulation: A tired dog is less likely to engage in obsessive behaviors.

• Provide affection in other ways: Some dogs lick as a way to bond; try petting, brushing, or playtime instead.

If the behavior continues or becomes compulsive, it may require medical intervention or behavioral support.

Worried about your dog's excessive licking?

Excessive ear licking can be more than just a quirky habit, it may be a sign that something’s off. A quick veterinary check can help rule out any underlying issues related to ear licking behavior.

If your dog is licking another dog's ears excessively, please let us know. Billings Animal Family Hospital is happy to check out the lick-ee for signs of an ear problem as well as the lick-er, if needed.