Why Do My Dogs Lick Each Other’s Eyes?

Dogs have a range of behaviors that may seem peculiar to humans. One such behavior is when dogs lick each other’s eyes. While it may appear unusual, this behavior serves a specific purpose in the canine world. In this article, we will explore why dogs engage in this behavior and answer some frequently asked questions about it.

Why do dogs lick each other’s eyes?

1. Hygiene: Dogs are naturally inclined to keep themselves clean, and this includes their pack members. Licking each other’s eyes may be a way for dogs to help maintain the hygiene of their pack.

2. Social bonding: Licking is a social behavior in dogs, and it helps strengthen the bond between pack members. By licking each other’s eyes, dogs are reinforcing their social connections and demonstrating their trust and affection.

3. Grooming: Dogs often groom each other as a way to maintain their coats and remove dirt or debris. Licking the eyes may be a part of this grooming behavior, as dogs have a tendency to focus on areas that are hard to reach, such as the face and head.

4. Communication: Dogs communicate through various body language cues, and licking can be a way to convey messages. Licking each other’s eyes might signal submission, respect, or trust between dogs.

5. Soothing behavior: Licking can have a calming effect on dogs. When one dog licks another’s eyes, it may help relax the recipient and provide comfort in stressful situations.

6. Scent identification: Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and their saliva contains unique scents. By licking each other’s eyes, dogs can transfer their scent to one another, which helps in identifying pack members and reinforcing their social hierarchy.

7. Eye health: Dogs’ eyes can sometimes become irritated or itchy due to allergies, foreign objects, or infections. Licking each other’s eyes may be a way for dogs to provide relief and alleviate discomfort.

8. Nurturing instinct: Licking is a nurturing behavior seen in many animals, including dogs. By licking each other’s eyes, dogs exhibit a maternal or paternal instinct, showing care and affection towards their pack mates.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Is it normal for dogs to lick each other’s eyes?
Yes, it is a normal behavior observed in dogs. It serves various purposes, including hygiene, social bonding, grooming, communication, and soothing.

2. Should I be concerned if my dogs lick each other’s eyes excessively?
Excessive eye licking can be a sign of an underlying issue, such as eye irritation or infection. If you notice persistent eye licking or signs of discomfort, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian.

3. Can eye licking transmit diseases between dogs?
While it is possible for diseases to be transmitted through saliva, the risk is relatively low. However, it’s always wise to ensure your dogs are up-to-date on their vaccinations and maintain good overall health.

4. Should I stop my dogs from licking each other’s eyes?
Unless the behavior becomes excessive or causes discomfort, there is generally no need to stop dogs from licking each other’s eyes. It is a natural behavior that serves multiple purposes.

5. Is it safe for dogs to lick human eyes?
No, it is not safe for dogs to lick human eyes. Dogs’ mouths contain bacteria that can potentially cause infections in humans. It’s best to avoid allowing dogs to lick your eyes or face.

6. Are there any health risks associated with dogs licking each other’s eyes?
Generally, there are no significant health risks associated with this behavior. However, if you notice any signs of eye irritation, redness, discharge, or discomfort, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian.

7. Can dogs lick each other’s eyes if one has an eye infection?
It is not advisable for dogs to lick each other’s eyes if one has an eye infection. In such cases, it is crucial to seek veterinary care to treat the infection and prevent its spread.

8. Can this behavior indicate a dominance issue?
Licking each other’s eyes is more likely a sign of social bonding rather than a dominance issue. However, if you observe other dominant behaviors alongside eye licking, it is advisable to consult a professional dog trainer for guidance.

9. Is it possible to train dogs to stop licking each other’s eyes?
While it may be possible to modify this behavior through training, it is important to consider the natural instincts and social dynamics that drive this behavior. Consult a professional dog trainer for guidance if you wish to modify this behavior.

10. Can dogs develop eye infections from licking each other’s eyes?
While it is unlikely for dogs to develop eye infections solely from licking each other’s eyes, excessive licking can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Proper eye hygiene and regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent infections.

11. Can dogs lick each other’s eyes as a sign of aggression?
Licking each other’s eyes is not typically a sign of aggression. Aggressive behavior in dogs is usually accompanied by other cues such as growling, snarling, and showing teeth.

12. Should I intervene if one dog doesn’t want its eyes licked?
Yes, it’s important to respect each dog’s boundaries. If one dog appears uncomfortable or tries to avoid getting its eyes licked, it’s best to intervene and redirect the behavior.

In conclusion, dogs lick each other’s eyes for various reasons, including hygiene, social bonding, grooming, communication, and comfort. It is a natural behavior that serves multiple purposes and is generally harmless. However, it’s important to monitor the behavior and seek veterinary advice if you notice any signs of discomfort or eye issues.