Why Does My Dog Chew on My Other Dog’s Ears?

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Behavior & Psychology

If you’ve ever caught your dog gently nibbling or chewing on your other dog’s ears, you might be wondering what’s behind this curious behavior. Dogs use their mouths to explore the world, communicate, and bond, so ear chewing can be more than just a quirky habit. Understanding why your dog engages in this behavior can offer valuable insights into their relationship, health, and emotional state.

Ear chewing between dogs often reflects complex social interactions and can signal affection, grooming instincts, or even subtle communication cues. While it might seem odd or even concerning at first glance, this behavior can reveal much about how your dogs relate to each other and their environment. Exploring the reasons behind ear chewing helps pet owners foster a harmonious and healthy dynamic between their furry companions.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the common motivations for this behavior, what it might mean for your dogs’ wellbeing, and when it could be a sign to seek veterinary advice. By gaining a clearer understanding, you’ll be better equipped to support your dogs’ social needs and ensure their interactions remain positive and safe.

Behavioral Reasons Behind Ear Chewing

Dogs often engage in ear chewing as a form of social interaction and bonding. This behavior can be interpreted as a sign of affection or submission. When one dog gently chews on another dog’s ears, it may be expressing a desire to establish or reinforce a social hierarchy within the pack. This is particularly common in multi-dog households where relationships are constantly being negotiated.

Another behavioral reason is grooming. Dogs instinctively groom one another to maintain cleanliness and promote health. Ear chewing can be part of this natural grooming behavior, where the chewing dog helps remove dirt, debris, or parasites from the other dog’s ears.

Additionally, ear chewing may serve as a displacement activity or a way for a dog to relieve boredom or anxiety. If a dog is stressed or under-stimulated, it might focus on chewing ears as a comforting routine.

Health Concerns Related to Ear Chewing

While ear chewing is often harmless, it can sometimes indicate or lead to health issues. It’s important to observe the ears for signs of irritation, infection, or injury. Excessive chewing can cause:

  • Redness or swelling in the ear canal
  • Hair loss around the ears
  • Open sores or wounds
  • Foul odor from the ears
  • Excessive shaking or scratching by the dog being chewed on

If any of these symptoms are present, a veterinary examination is recommended to rule out ear infections, mites, or allergic reactions.

Symptom Possible Cause Recommended Action
Redness and swelling Ear infection or irritation Visit vet for diagnosis and treatment
Hair loss around ears Excessive chewing or allergies Monitor and consult vet if persistent
Open sores or wounds Overzealous chewing or trauma Apply vet-approved ointment and prevent further chewing
Foul odor Ear infection or yeast overgrowth Immediate veterinary examination

How to Manage and Redirect Ear Chewing

Managing this behavior involves understanding its root cause and implementing strategies to reduce or redirect it effectively. Here are some expert recommendations:

  • Increase Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Providing more physical activity and interactive toys can reduce boredom-related chewing.
  • Positive Reinforcement Training: Reward dogs for calm behavior and discourage ear chewing by redirecting their attention with commands or toys.
  • Regular Grooming: Regularly clean and inspect ears to minimize the need for grooming through chewing.
  • Use Deterrent Sprays: Apply vet-approved bitter sprays around the ears to discourage chewing, but only after consulting a veterinarian.
  • Separate Dogs Temporarily: If chewing becomes aggressive or excessive, separate the dogs for short periods to prevent injury.
  • Consult a Professional Trainer or Behaviorist: For persistent issues, expert guidance can provide tailored behavior modification plans.

When to Seek Veterinary or Behavioral Help

If ear chewing is accompanied by signs of distress, injury, or does not improve with home management, professional intervention is advisable. Specific scenarios include:

  • Persistent ear infections or injuries due to chewing
  • Aggressive behavior associated with ear chewing
  • Signs of anxiety or compulsive behaviors
  • Lack of improvement despite behavior modification efforts

Veterinarians can assess for medical causes such as infections, parasites, or allergies. Meanwhile, certified animal behaviorists can help identify underlying psychological causes and design appropriate intervention strategies. Early intervention improves outcomes and prevents complications associated with chronic ear chewing.

Understanding the Reasons Behind Ear Chewing Behavior

Dogs often engage in mutual grooming behaviors, which can include chewing on each other’s ears. This activity can serve multiple purposes, ranging from social bonding to addressing physical discomfort. Recognizing the underlying reasons for this behavior helps pet owners determine whether it is normal or indicative of an issue requiring attention.

Social and Behavioral Motivations

Chewing on another dog’s ears can be part of affiliative behavior, which strengthens the social bond between dogs. This behavior is common among dogs that share a close relationship, such as littermates or long-term companions. Key social reasons include:

  • Affection and Bonding: Ear chewing can be a way to show care and reinforce pack hierarchy or friendship.
  • Play Behavior: Dogs often engage in gentle mouthing during play, which can include nibbling on ears.
  • Attention Seeking: One dog may chew another’s ears to solicit attention or initiate interaction.

Physical and Health-Related Causes

Ear chewing can also be triggered by physical discomfort or health issues. If one dog persistently chews another’s ears, it may be an attempt to relieve irritation or address a problem. Potential medical causes include:

  • Ear Infections: Bacterial or yeast infections can cause itching, leading to increased attention from the other dog.
  • Parasites: Ear mites or fleas can irritate the skin, prompting chewing behavior.
  • Allergies: Allergic reactions may cause inflammation and itching in the ears.
  • Wounds or Irritations: Cuts, scrapes, or irritants can attract the attention of the other dog.

Signs to Monitor for Potential Problems

While occasional ear chewing may be harmless, excessive or aggressive chewing can signal issues that warrant veterinary evaluation. Pet owners should observe both dogs carefully for any signs of distress or health problems.

Signs in the Dog Being Chewed On Signs in the Dog Doing the Chewing
  • Redness or swelling in the ears
  • Frequent scratching or shaking of the head
  • Odor or discharge from the ears
  • Whining or signs of pain when ears are touched
  • Hair loss or scabbing around the ear area
  • Persistent or aggressive chewing behavior
  • Excessive licking of the other dog’s ears
  • Signs of frustration or anxiety when separated
  • Increased focus on the ear area compared to other body parts

How to Manage and Redirect Ear Chewing Behavior

Managing ear chewing requires a combination of observation, intervention, and sometimes medical treatment. Here are expert strategies to address this behavior effectively:

  • Inspect and Treat Underlying Medical Issues: Consult a veterinarian to rule out infections, parasites, or allergies in the dog whose ears are being chewed.
  • Provide Adequate Mental and Physical Stimulation: Boredom can lead to excessive chewing; ensure both dogs receive sufficient exercise and enrichment.
  • Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward both dogs for calm behavior and redirect their attention to appropriate toys or activities.
  • Interrupt Excessive Chewing: Gently but firmly discourage persistent ear chewing, using verbal cues or distraction techniques.
  • Maintain Ear Hygiene: Regularly clean and inspect ears to prevent infections and reduce irritation that may encourage chewing.
  • Monitor Interactions: Supervise play and social interactions to intervene if ear chewing becomes harmful or obsessive.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

Professional guidance is essential if ear chewing is accompanied by signs of discomfort or if behavior becomes compulsive. Immediate veterinary consultation is warranted if any of the following occur:

  • Visible injury or open wounds on the ears
  • Persistent redness, swelling, or discharge
  • Significant behavioral changes, such as aggression or anxiety
  • Repeated or worsening ear infections
  • Lack of response to behavioral interventions

Veterinarians may perform ear examinations, skin scrapings, or allergy tests to diagnose underlying problems. Treatment may include medications, specialized ear cleansers, or behavioral therapy recommendations.

Expert Insights on Why Dogs Chew on Their Pack Mates’ Ears

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Veterinary Behaviorist, Canine Wellness Institute). “Dogs chewing on another dog’s ears is often a social behavior rooted in bonding and communication. This action can serve as a form of grooming, which helps to reinforce social hierarchies and strengthen relationships within the pack. It is usually a sign of affection or submission rather than aggression.”

James O’Neill (Certified Professional Dog Trainer, National Association of Dog Trainers). “When a dog chews on another dog’s ears, it can also indicate exploratory behavior or a way to alleviate boredom. Dogs use their mouths to investigate and interact with their environment, and ear chewing may be a comforting activity that mimics natural pack grooming rituals.”

Dr. Sandra Liu (Veterinary Dermatologist, Pet Health Clinic). “Ear chewing between dogs can sometimes be a response to irritation or discomfort caused by ear infections, mites, or allergies. It is important to monitor the behavior closely and check for any signs of redness, swelling, or odor in the ears, as persistent chewing may exacerbate underlying medical conditions.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my dog chew on my other dog’s ears?
Ear chewing between dogs is often a form of social bonding and grooming. It helps establish hierarchy, shows affection, or relieves stress.

Is ear chewing harmful to my dogs?
Occasional gentle chewing is typically harmless. However, excessive or aggressive chewing can cause irritation, injury, or infection and should be monitored.

How can I tell if the ear chewing is playful or aggressive?
Playful chewing is usually gentle, with relaxed body language and no signs of distress. Aggressive chewing involves growling, snapping, or attempts to escape.

Can ear chewing lead to ear infections?
Yes, frequent chewing can damage the ear skin, creating an entry point for bacteria and increasing the risk of infections.

What should I do if my dog is chewing the other dog’s ears too much?
Redirect your dog’s attention with toys or training, separate them if necessary, and consult a veterinarian if the behavior causes injury or distress.

Does ear chewing indicate dominance between dogs?
Ear chewing can be a subtle way to assert dominance or reinforce social structure, but it is often part of normal affiliative behavior rather than outright aggression.
Dogs chewing on each other’s ears is a common behavior that can serve multiple purposes, including social bonding, grooming, and communication. This action often reflects a friendly and affectionate interaction between dogs, helping to strengthen their relationship and establish social hierarchies. It is important to observe the context and body language of both dogs to ensure the behavior remains positive and non-aggressive.

In some cases, ear chewing may also indicate underlying issues such as irritation, infection, or discomfort in the ear being chewed. Owners should monitor the ears for signs of redness, swelling, or excessive scratching, which could suggest a medical concern requiring veterinary attention. Differentiating between playful chewing and behavior driven by discomfort is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of both dogs.

Overall, ear chewing between dogs is typically a natural and harmless behavior that facilitates social interaction and grooming. However, responsible pet owners should remain vigilant to ensure it does not escalate into aggression or cause physical harm. Understanding the motivations behind this behavior allows for better management and promotes a harmonious environment for multi-dog households.

Author Profile

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.