Why Does My Dog Lick My Other Dog's Ears? (And How to Stop It)
Written by Tim de Jong
Dogs usually lick each other's ears to groom and bond, much like a friendly act of affection, and because ears have a strong, interesting smell. A little ear-licking is normal. But if your dog suddenly licks one ear obsessively, check the other dog's ears for infection, and if the licking is constant, interrupt it and redirect your dog to something else.
In this post, we explain why dogs do it, when it becomes a problem, and 4 ways to stop your dog from licking other dogs' ears.
Why do dogs lick other dog’s ears?
Licking another dog’s ears is a common behavior among dogs. While there are a number of possible explanations for this behavior, the most likely reason is that dogs see ear-licking as a form of cleaning.
When a dog licks another dog’s ear, they can remove some dirt, debris, or wax from the outer ear, the parts the other dog can't reach itself.
Another reason is that they may be showing affection or appeasement, a way of saying "we're friends." In some cases, excessive ear-licking may also be a sign of stress, anxiety or boredom. And it is also simply possible that they like the smell and taste of earwax. A related habit is grooming that goes too far, which we explain in why your dog eats your other dog's hair.
Finally, pay attention if your dog suddenly becomes fixated on one ear. Dogs are often drawn to the smell of an ear infection, so a sudden interest can be the first sign that the other dog has a problem.
Should you stop this ear-licking behavior?
Occasional ear-licking between dogs that get along is normal and usually harmless. It becomes a problem when it's constant, or when the dog being licked tries to get away.
A dog's mouth is full of bacteria and yeast, and frequent licking keeps the ear warm and damp, which can irritate the skin and contribute to ear infections, especially in dogs with floppy ears. Constant licking can also annoy the other dog and lead to squabbles. For these reasons, it’s best to limit how much your dog licks other dogs’ ears. Keeping ears clean yourself helps too, for example with Q-tips for dog ear cleaning.
How to stop dog from licking other dogs ears?
There are a few different ways that you can stop your dog from licking other dogs’ ears. Below, we’ll go over 4 of the most effective methods.
1Use positive reinforcement training
Teach your dog a "leave it" cue, then use it when your dog starts licking another dog’s ear. As soon as your dog stops, call them over and reward them, or ask for something else, like a sit, and reward that.
With enough repetition, your dog will learn that leaving the other dog's ears alone pays off. Be patient and consistent, and reward calm behavior around the other dog even when they haven't licked.
2Give your dog more exercise and enrichment
Some dogs lick the ears of other dogs out of boredom or anxiety, and for a few it becomes almost compulsive. If this is the case, one of the best ways to stop the behavior is to give your dog more to do.
This can include longer walks, play sessions, sniffing games, puzzle feeders and short training sessions. A dog that is physically and mentally tired is much less likely to fixate on another dog's ears. If the licking seems obsessive and hard to interrupt, talk to your vet, as compulsive behaviors sometimes need extra help.
3Check the other dog's ears
As we mentioned earlier, some dogs like the taste of another dog’s earwax, and an infected ear smells even more interesting. Look inside the ears of the dog being licked. Redness, swelling, a bad smell, dark discharge, head shaking or scratching are signs of an ear infection, and that dog should see a vet.
Treating the infection often solves the licking too. Keeping your dogs' ears clean and dry, especially after swimming or baths, helps make them less appealing.
4Get your dog's attention
If your dog is licking another dog’s ear, try calling their name in a happy voice or making a kissing sound to get their attention, rather than shouting, which can stress both dogs. When your dog turns to you, reward them. Combined with positive reinforcement training, this method can be effective in teaching your dog not to lick.
If you have 2 dogs at home, you may give your dog an interactive toy to keep them occupied and away from licking other ears. For more on multi-dog households, see how much harder it is to have 2 dogs.
Final thoughts – How to stop dog from licking other dogs ears
A little ear-licking is a normal part of how dogs bond, but constant licking can irritate the other dog's ears and may even point to an ear infection. You can stop it with positive reinforcement training, more exercise and enrichment, regular ear checks, and by redirecting your dog's attention.
If you have 2 dogs at home, you may give your dog an interactive toy to keep them occupied and away from licking other ears. With proper training and management, you can successfully stop your dog from licking other dogs’ ears.
