Why Does My Dog Lick Inside My Ears

November 20, 2023

Have you ever been lounging on the couch with your furry friend when suddenly they start licking inside your ears? It can be a strange and uncomfortable experience, but have no fear, it’s actually quite common among dogs. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind why your dog may feel the need to lick inside your ears.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that dogs explore the world around them through their sense of smell and taste. Their tongues are covered in tiny papillae that allow them to pick up on subtle scents and flavors. So when your dog licks inside your ear, they’re essentially trying to get a better understanding of you and your surroundings.

However, there are a few specific reasons as to why dogs may feel compelled to lick inside their owner’s ears. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

1. Affection

Dogs are known for being loyal and affectionate companions. Licking is just one way that they express their love for their owners. When a dog licks inside your ear, it could simply be a sign of adoration and affection. They may be trying to show you how much they care about you and strengthen the bond between you two.

2. Cleaning

Another reason why dogs may lick inside your ears is to clean them. Dogs have an innate desire to keep themselves and their loved ones clean, so if they notice any dirt or debris in your ears, they may try to remove it by licking it away.

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3. Attention-seeking behavior

Some dogs will go to great lengths to get their owner’s attention. If your pup feels like they’re not getting enough love or attention from you, they may resort to licking inside your ears as a way of getting you to pay attention to them.

4. Medical issues

While uncommon, there are some medical issues that can cause dogs to lick inside their owner’s ears excessively. These include ear infections, allergies, and even tumors. If you notice that your dog is licking inside your ears more than usual or seems to be in discomfort, it’s important to take them to the vet for a check-up.

So now that we know why dogs may lick inside their owner’s ears, what can we do about it? Here are a few tips:

1. Set boundaries

While it’s important to show your dog love and affection, there are certain behaviors that you may not want to encourage. If you don’t enjoy being licked inside your ears, gently push your pup away and redirect their attention elsewhere.

2. Keep your ears clean

If your dog is licking inside your ears as a way of cleaning them, make sure to keep them clean yourself. This will help reduce the likelihood of your pup feeling the need to step in and do it themselves.

3. Reward good behavior

If your dog responds well to positive reinforcement training, reward them when they exhibit good behavior. For example, if they stop licking inside your ears when you ask them to, give them a treat or praise them with kind words.

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4. Seek professional help

If you suspect that your dog’s excessive ear licking is due to an underlying medical issue, seek help from a veterinarian. They can perform an exam and provide treatment options as needed.

In conclusion, while having your dog lick inside your ears may seem odd at first, it’s actually quite common among our furry friends. Whether they’re trying to show affection, clean your ears, or get attention, there are steps you can take to manage this behavior. So next time your pup starts going at it with your ears, remember that it’s just one of the many ways they express their love for you.