Dogs lick other dogs' ears for several reasons, primarily related to social behavior, grooming, and communication within their pack.
Grooming and Hygiene
Dogs cannot conveniently reach their own ears for cleaning, so licking another dog's ears is a way to help groom and clean them. This mutual grooming helps maintain hygiene by removing dirt, debris, or earwax and shows care and affection within dogs that are close or feel comfortable around each other.
Submission and Social Hierarchy
Ear licking can be a sign of submission where a lower-ranked or younger dog licks the ears of a higher-ranked or older dog as a gesture of respect and deference. This behavior is rooted in their pack ancestry, helping maintain social order and showing reverence.
Taste and Curiosity
Dogs may enjoy the taste of salty earwax, leading some to lick ears simply because they find it tasty. However, this can be excessive and potentially irritating if uncontrolled.
Detection of Ear Infections or Medical Issues
Dogs have an acute sense of smell and might detect infections or abnormalities in another dog's ears. Licking might be an instinctive attempt to clean or soothe an infected ear, although it is not a substitute for veterinary care. Persistent licking could signal a health issue requiring attention.
Affection, Bonding, and Stress Relief
Licking ears is also a way for dogs to express affection, build trust, and reinforce social bonds. Additionally, it can serve as a soothing behavior for an anxious dog to relieve stress, similar to self-soothing.
Alternative to Butt Sniffing
In some social interactions, if dogs avoid the typical greeting sniff of the rear, licking ears may serve as an alternative greeting behavior.
In summary, dogs lick other dogs' ears because of grooming needs, social hierarchy communication, taste, detection of health issues, bonding, and soothing effects, all of which derive from their pack animal instincts and social nature.
