Judy Taylor
What is eye-licking in dogs?
Eye-licking, as the name suggests, refers to the behavior of dogs licking each other’s eyes. It involves one dog using its tongue to lick the eyes of another dog. This behavior can occur between dogs of the same or opposite sex and can happen during play, grooming, or interaction between two unfamiliar dogs.
Is eye-licking a common behavior in dogs?
Yes, eye-licking is a common behavior in dogs. Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and licking is one of the ways they communicate with each other. Eye-licking is a form of communication between dogs that can convey various messages depending on the context. For example, eye-licking can be a sign of affection, submission, or a request for attention. However, not all dogs engage in this behavior, and some may only do it under certain circumstances.
Does eye-licking serve any purpose for dogs?
Eye-licking can serve several purposes for dogs. For one, it can help maintain and strengthen social bonds between dogs, especially those that are closely related or living together. Additionally, licking the eyes of another dog can help remove debris or dirt that may have accumulated around the eyes. It may also help calm or reassure another dog during stressful situations.
How do dogs react when their eyes are licked?
The reaction of dogs when their eyes are licked varies depending on the situation and the relationship between the dogs involved. Some dogs may tolerate it and even enjoy the attention, while others may react negatively, such as by growling or snapping. Dogs may also react differently depending on the gender, age, and social status of the other dog.
Do all dogs tolerate eye-licking from other dogs?
No, not all dogs tolerate eye-licking from other dogs. Some dogs may find it uncomfortable or annoying and may react aggressively towards the other dog. Similarly, dogs that are unfamiliar with each other may not appreciate being licked by a stranger and may react defensively.
Is eye-licking a sign of dominance or submission?
Eye-licking can be a sign of submission rather than dominance. When a dog licks the eyes of another dog, it can be an indication that the first dog is acknowledging the other dog’s higher status or authority. However, it can also be a sign of affection or a request for attention.
What are the health risks associated with eye-licking?
Eye-licking can pose some health risks, particularly if the dogs involved have not been vaccinated against diseases such as canine herpesvirus and other communicable diseases. Additionally, dogs can transmit bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, through their saliva, which can cause infections in the eyes or other parts of the body.
How can you prevent your dog from licking other dogs’ eyes?
It can be challenging to prevent your dog from licking other dogs’ eyes, particularly if the behavior occurs during play or social interaction. However, supervising your dog during playtime and discouraging the behavior when it occurs can help minimize the frequency of eye-licking. Additionally, training your dog to respond to commands such as “off” or “leave it” can help redirect their attention away from the other dog’s eyes.
Can eye-licking be a learned behavior?
Yes, eye-licking can be a learned behavior. Dogs can learn to lick the eyes of other dogs by observing other dogs engaging in the behavior or through positive reinforcement, such as receiving attention or treats when they lick another dog’s eyes.
What should you do if your dog is constantly eye-licked by other dogs?
If your dog is constantly being eye-licked by other dogs, it is best to monitor their behavior and intervene if necessary. You can try to distract the other dog or redirect their attention away from your dog’s eyes. If the behavior persists, it may be necessary to separate your dog from the other dog or avoid situations where the behavior is likely to occur. Additionally, it is essential to keep your dog’s vaccinations up-to-date to minimize the risk of disease transmission.
