It’s natural for us to be concerned when our beloved pet is displaying behavior that we don’t understand. We want to make sure that our pet is safe and healthy, and any type of odd behavior can be concerning. One behavior that has puzzled many dog owners is when their dog licks the eyes of another dog. This behavior can be concerning for a variety of reasons and can even appear to be aggressive. So why does a dog lick another dog’s eyes?
What Does it Mean When a Dog Licks Another Dog's Eyes?
There are a few different explanations for why a dog might lick another dog’s eyes. One of the most common reasons is that the dog is trying to show affection. Dogs often lick each other’s faces as a way to show affection and share a bond with one another. If your dog is licking the eyes of another dog, it could just be a sign that they are enjoying each other’s company and expressing their love for one another.
Another explanation could be that the dog is trying to give the other dog comfort. If a dog is feeling scared or anxious, licking the eyes of another dog can be comforting and soothing. The physical contact and the act of grooming can be calming for both dogs and help them to feel secure.
It’s also possible that the dog is trying to show submission to the other dog. If a dog is feeling intimidated or uncertain, licking the eyes of another dog can be a sign of submission. This type of behavior is often seen in puppies who are trying to show deference to an older dog.
Should I Worry If My Dog is Licking Another Dog's Eyes?
In most cases, there is no need to worry if your dog is licking another dog’s eyes. As long as both dogs appear to be comfortable and relaxed, it’s likely just a sign of affection. However, if you’re concerned that the licking is aggressive or uncomfortable for either dog, it’s best to talk to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can help you determine if the behavior is normal or if it needs to be addressed.
How Do I Stop My Dog From Licking Another Dog's Eyes?
If you’re concerned about your dog’s licking behavior, there are a few things you can do to help stop it. The first step is to make sure that your dog is getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. If a dog is bored or under-exercised, they may display behaviors such as licking that can be disruptive or uncomfortable for other dogs. Exercise and mental stimulation can help to keep your dog happy and content and reduce the likelihood of them engaging in disruptive behaviors.
You should also keep an eye on your dog when they are interacting with other dogs. If you notice your dog licking another dog’s eyes, gently but firmly interrupt the behavior and redirect your dog’s attention to something else, such as a toy or a treat. Over time, they should learn that the licking behavior is not acceptable.
What If My Dog Keeps Licking Other Dogs’ Eyes?
If your dog continues to lick other dogs’ eyes, despite your efforts to redirect their behavior, it may be best to talk to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can help you determine if there is an underlying medical or behavioral issue that is causing the licking behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dogs lick other dogs' eyes?
Dogs often lick each other’s eyes as a way to show affection and share a bond with one another. It can also be a sign that the dog is trying to give the other dog comfort or show submission.
Is it normal for a dog to lick another dog's eyes?
In most cases, it is normal for a dog to lick another dog's eyes. As long as both dogs appear to be comfortable and relaxed, it’s likely just a sign of affection.
What should I do if my dog is licking another dog's eyes?
If you’re concerned that the licking is aggressive or uncomfortable for either dog, it’s best to talk to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can help you determine if the behavior is normal or if it needs to be addressed.
How can I stop my dog from licking another dog's eyes?
If you’re concerned about your dog’s licking behavior, there are a few things you can do to help stop it. The first step is to make sure that your dog is getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. You should also keep an eye on your dog when they are interacting with other dogs. If you notice your dog licking another dog’s eyes, gently but firmly interrupt the behavior and redirect your dog’s attention to something else, such as a toy or a treat.
What should I do if my dog keeps licking other dogs' eyes?
If your dog continues to lick other dogs’ eyes, despite your efforts to redirect their behavior, it may be best to talk to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can help you determine if there is an underlying medical or behavioral issue that is causing the licking behavior.
Is it bad for a dog to lick another dog's eyes?
In most cases, licking another dog's eyes is not bad for either dog. However, if you’re concerned that the licking is aggressive or uncomfortable for either dog, it’s best to talk to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.
Can I get my dog to stop licking another dog's eyes?
Yes, you can get your dog to stop licking another dog’s eyes. The first step is to make sure that your dog is getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. You should also keep an eye on your dog when they are interacting with other dogs. If you notice your dog licking another dog’s eyes, gently but firmly interrupt the behavior and redirect your dog’s attention to something else, such as a toy or a treat.
Is it okay for my dog to lick another dog's eyes?
In most cases, it is okay for a dog to lick another dog's eyes. As long as both dogs appear to be comfortable and relaxed, it’s likely just a sign of affection. However, if you’re concerned that the licking is aggressive or uncomfortable for either dog, it’s best to talk to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.
How can I make sure my dog is not licking another dog's eyes?
The best way to make sure your dog is not licking another dog's eyes is to monitor their behavior when they are around other dogs. If you notice your dog licking another dog’s eyes, gently but firmly interrupt the behavior and redirect your dog’s attention to something else, such as a toy or a treat. Over time, they should learn that the licking behavior is not acceptable.
What are some reasons why a dog might lick another dog's eyes?
Some of the reasons why a dog might lick another dog's eyes include showing affection, providing comfort, and showing submission. If a dog is feeling scared or anxious, licking the eyes of another dog can be comforting and soothing. It can also be a sign of submission if a dog is feeling intimidated or uncertain.
Can I get my dog to stop licking another dog's eyes without professional help?
Yes, you can get your dog to stop licking another dog’s eyes without professional help. The first step is to make sure that your dog is getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. You should also keep an eye on your dog when they are interacting with other dogs. If you notice your dog licking another dog’s eyes, gently but firmly interrupt the behavior and redirect your dog’s attention to something else, such as a toy or a treat. Over time, they should learn that the licking behavior is not acceptable.
Is it normal for a dog to lick another dog's eyes when playing?
Yes, it can be normal for a dog to lick another dog's eyes when playing. Dogs often lick each other’s faces as a way to show affection and share a bond with one another.
What should I do if my dog keeps licking another dog's eyes even after I try to stop them?
If your dog continues to lick other dogs’ eyes, despite your efforts to redirect their behavior, it may be best to talk to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can help you determine if there is an underlying medical or behavioral issue that is causing the licking behavior.