Why Do Dogs Lick Other Dogs Mouths

Have you ever wondered why dogs lick each other’s mouths? It may seem gross to us humans, but to our furry friends, it’s just another way of communicating. Dogs use their tongues for a variety of reasons, from grooming to showing affection. In this article, we’ll explore the many reasons why dogs lick each other’s mouths and what it means for their social behavior.

The Bonding Power of Licking

Dogs are social animals that thrive on companionship and interaction with their own kind. Licking is one way they show affection and build bonds with other dogs in their pack. When a dog licks another dog’s mouth, it’s a sign of trust and respect. It shows that they recognize the other dog as part of their group and that they’re comfortable being close to them.

Grooming Behavior

Dogs also use licking as a form of grooming. They may lick each other’s faces to remove dirt or other debris that has accumulated during playtime or while exploring their environment. This behavior is especially common among puppies who rely on their mother’s grooming to keep clean.

Scent Sharing

Another reason why dogs lick each other’s mouths is to share information about themselves. Dogs have scent glands in their mouths that produce pheromones – chemicals that convey messages about their age, gender, health status, and mood. By licking another dog’s mouth, they’re sharing these scents and learning more about each other.

Establishing Dominance

Licking can also be a sign of dominance in dogs. When one dog licks another dog’s mouth, it could be a way of asserting their position as the alpha in the pack. However, this behavior is usually accompanied by other dominant behaviors such as standing over the other dog or growling.

Stress Relief

Finally, licking can be a form of stress relief for dogs. When they’re feeling anxious or nervous, licking can help them calm down and feel more relaxed. This behavior is often seen in dogs that have separation anxiety or fear of loud noises like thunderstorms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dogs lick each other’s mouths for a variety of reasons, from showing affection to establishing dominance. It’s a natural behavior that’s part of their social interaction with other dogs. As pet owners, it’s important to understand why our dogs do what they do so that we can better meet their needs and provide them with the care and attention they deserve. So the next time you see your dog licking another dog’s mouth, remember that it’s just another way of communicating in their own special language.