Understanding Why Dogs Lick Each Other’s Mouths
It’s a common and often puzzling behavior for many dog owners to see one dog licking another dog’s mouth. Whether you have two pups living together or your dog interacts with canines at the park, this action can raise questions. To help you better understand what’s going on, let’s delve into the motivations behind this canine behavior.
1. Instinctive Puppy Behavior
The mouth-licking gesture first appears when puppies lick their mother’s mouth. In the wild, this behavior prompts regurgitation of food. Though domestic dogs aren’t relying on regurgitated meals, the licking still serves as an early form of communication that many carry into adulthood.
2. Sign of Submission
In canine social structures, licking another dog’s mouth can be a submissive gesture. It shows deference to a more dominant dog and can signal peaceful intent or an acknowledgment of hierarchy:
- Submissive dogs will often lower their bodies and lick around the mouth of a dominant dog.
- This act can prevent aggression by showing respect.
3. Display of Affection and Social Bonding
Much like humans hug or hold hands, dogs groom and lick each other to express affection. Mouth licking can be a gentle way your dog reinforces social bonds, particularly between dogs that are close companions:
- Paired dogs may perform this action during calm, relaxed interactions.
- It can be a mutual activity involving both dogs taking turns.
4. Curiosity and Information Gathering
Dogs rely on taste and scent to assess their surroundings. Licking another dog’s mouth can offer a wealth of information. Through the scent and taste of saliva, a dog can learn about its peer’s diet, health, or even mood.
5. Can Indicate Hunger or Food Interest
Sometimes dogs lick another's mouth if they smell food. This pattern is especially common among pups, but adult dogs may also do it if food is involved:
- It may happen after one dog has eaten a treat or meal.
- Saliva lingering around the mouth could be scented, catching the attention of the other dog.
6. Learned or Reinforced Behavior
If this mouth licking gets a positive or calm response repeatedly (e.g., attention, treat, play), your dog might be reinforcing it over time. Learned behaviors stem from repetition and the outcomes they trigger.
7. Signs of Anxiety or Stress
Though usually benign, compulsive or excessive licking can be a symptom of stress or anxiety. Dogs may seek attention, reassurance, or use familiar gestures to comfort themselves.
- Watch for obsessive patterns or changes in frequency.
- Consult your veterinarian or a canine behaviorist if licking seems excessive or is accompanied by other stress signs.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Mouth licking is generally harmless, but keep in mind the following:
- If accompanied by dominance aggression or if one dog is repeatedly annoyed or pulling away, intervention is needed.
- Licking open wounds or infected areas near the mouth may spread infection or complicate healing.
Helpful Tips for Pet Owners
If you're unsure whether the behavior is healthy or problematic, follow these suggestions:
- Observe body language: Are both dogs relaxed?
- Monitor frequency: Is it occasional or constant?
- Provide enrichment: Mental stimulation may help with compulsive behaviors.
- Consult a professional: Behavioral trainers or veterinarians can guide you.
Conclusion
Dogs licking each other’s mouths is generally a normal part of their social interactions that reflects their natural instincts, social roles, and bonds. Understanding the context and canine communication behind this behavior helps strengthen your relationship with your pets and ensures their well-being.
