Why Does My Dog Chew on My Other Dog’s Ears? Understanding This Behavior Explained

AvatarByWilliam Warren Behavior & Psychology

Dogs communicate and bond in many fascinating ways, and one behavior that often puzzles pet owners is when one dog chews on another dog’s ears. This seemingly odd action can leave you wondering why your furry companions engage in such intimate, sometimes messy, interactions. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior not only sheds light on your dogs’ relationship but also helps ensure their well-being and happiness.

Ear chewing between dogs can be a form of social bonding, a way to show affection, or even a method of establishing hierarchy within the pack. While it might look like simple play or grooming, there are underlying instincts and emotions at work that influence this behavior. Recognizing the signals your dogs are sending to each other can deepen your appreciation of their complex social world.

Before jumping to conclusions about whether ear chewing is harmless or a cause for concern, it’s important to explore the various factors that contribute to this behavior. From health-related reasons to communication cues, the motivations behind ear chewing are diverse and nuanced. By gaining insight into why your dog chews on your other dog’s ears, you’ll be better equipped to foster a harmonious environment for your pets.

Behavioral Reasons Behind Ear Chewing

Dogs often engage in ear chewing of their companions as a form of social bonding and communication. This behavior can serve multiple purposes within the dynamics of their relationship. For example, ear chewing may act as a soothing gesture, helping to reduce stress or anxiety in the other dog. It can also be a way to establish or reinforce social hierarchy and dominance without resorting to aggression.

Another common reason is grooming behavior. Dogs naturally groom each other to maintain hygiene and demonstrate affection. Chewing or nibbling on ears may help remove dirt, dead skin, or parasites, promoting cleanliness and health. This mutual grooming helps to strengthen the bond between dogs, similar to how wolves and wild canines behave in packs.

Finally, some dogs may chew on ears simply out of curiosity or playfulness, especially in younger or more energetic dogs. This can be a part of their exploration and social play, as ears are accessible and sensitive areas that elicit reactions and interactions.

Health-Related Factors Influencing Ear Chewing

Ear chewing can sometimes indicate underlying health issues that need attention. If a dog’s ears are itchy or uncomfortable due to infections, parasites, or skin conditions, the companion dog might chew on the ears as a response to the irritation or to try to alleviate discomfort.

Common health concerns that could lead to increased ear chewing include:

  • Ear infections caused by bacteria or yeast
  • Ear mites or other parasites
  • Allergies resulting in itchy or inflamed skin
  • Excessive wax buildup or debris inside the ear canal

In such cases, the chewing dog might be responding to behavioral cues from the affected dog, or the affected dog might be inviting attention through increased movement or scratching. It is important to closely monitor both dogs and consult a veterinarian if ear chewing seems excessive or if there are signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or foul odor from the ears.

When to Be Concerned About Ear Chewing

While ear chewing is often a natural and harmless behavior, there are scenarios where it may indicate a problem that requires intervention. Owners should watch for the following warning signs:

  • Persistent or aggressive chewing causing wounds or sores
  • One dog consistently avoiding or showing discomfort around the other
  • Signs of pain such as yelping or snapping when ears are touched
  • Visible signs of infection or inflammation in the ears
  • Changes in behavior such as increased anxiety or irritability

If any of these signs are present, it is advisable to seek veterinary advice to rule out medical conditions and to potentially adjust the dogs’ interactions.

Strategies to Manage and Redirect Ear Chewing

If ear chewing becomes excessive or problematic, several management techniques can help redirect this behavior while maintaining a healthy relationship between the dogs:

  • Provide alternative outlets: Offer chew toys or interactive play to reduce boredom and channel energy away from ear chewing.
  • Supervised interaction: Monitor playtime closely and intervene when ear chewing starts to escalate.
  • Positive reinforcement: Reward gentle, appropriate behaviors to encourage better social interactions.
  • Training commands: Teach commands like “leave it” or “no” to interrupt unwanted chewing.
  • Environmental enrichment: Increase mental and physical stimulation through walks, puzzle feeders, and training sessions.

By implementing these strategies, owners can help ensure that ear chewing remains a benign behavior rather than a source of discomfort or injury.

Comparison of Ear Chewing Causes and Solutions

Cause Behavioral Signs Health Signs Recommended Action
Social bonding/grooming Gentle nibbling, mutual grooming, relaxed body language None Allow interaction, monitor for escalation
Playfulness/curiosity Energetic behavior, play bows, quick movements None Redirect to toys, use commands to control chewing
Stress or anxiety relief Repeated chewing, signs of nervousness, pacing Possible skin irritation Increase environmental enrichment, consult behaviorist
Health issues (infection, mites) Increased scratching, discomfort Redness, odor, discharge, swelling Veterinary examination and treatment
Dominance or hierarchy One dog submissive, occasional growling None Supervised socialization, behavior training

Understanding the Behavior Behind Ear Chewing in Dogs

Ear chewing between dogs is a common social interaction that can be driven by various behavioral and physiological factors. It is important to interpret this behavior contextually to determine whether it is a sign of affection, communication, or a potential health issue.

Here are the primary reasons why a dog might chew on another dog’s ears:

  • Social Bonding and Affection: Dogs often engage in mutual grooming behaviors, including ear licking and chewing, to reinforce social bonds and establish trust within the pack.
  • Dominance and Hierarchy: Ear chewing can be a subtle way to assert dominance or establish social rank without aggression. The dominant dog may gently nibble or chew the subordinate dog’s ears to communicate status.
  • Play Behavior: During play, dogs use their mouths extensively, including mouthing and gentle chewing on ears, which is generally non-aggressive and accompanied by relaxed body language.
  • Attention-Seeking: A dog may chew on another dog’s ears to solicit attention or initiate interaction, especially if the ear chewing results in a response like play or grooming.
  • Grooming and Cleaning: Dogs may chew or lick ears to clean dirt, debris, or parasites from the ear area, contributing to hygiene maintenance within the group.
  • Stress Relief or Displacement Behavior: In some cases, repetitive ear chewing can be a displacement behavior, used to relieve anxiety or stress.

Health Considerations Related to Ear Chewing

While ear chewing is often normal, it can also indicate underlying health issues that require attention. It is crucial to monitor the behavior for signs of discomfort or injury.

Potential Health Issue Signs and Symptoms Implications
Ear Infections (Otitis) Redness, swelling, discharge, foul odor, frequent scratching The chewing dog may be trying to soothe irritation or remove debris from the affected ear.
Parasites (Ear Mites) Black or brown debris in ear canal, excessive shaking of the head, scratching Chewing may be an attempt to remove parasites causing discomfort.
Skin Irritations or Allergies Redness, flakiness, inflammation around ears Chewing can exacerbate skin damage and lead to secondary infections.
Injuries or Wounds Bleeding, scabs, sensitivity when touched Repeated chewing may cause further injury or delay healing.

If any signs of discomfort or injury are observed, a veterinary examination is recommended to diagnose and treat the underlying condition promptly.

Behavioral Management and Intervention Strategies

When ear chewing becomes excessive or problematic, behavioral management techniques can help reduce the behavior and maintain harmony between dogs.

  • Redirect Attention: Offer toys or engage the chewing dog in interactive play to divert their focus away from ear chewing.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Reward appropriate behaviors with treats or praise when the dog refrains from chewing on ears.
  • Supervised Interactions: Monitor play sessions closely to intervene if ear chewing becomes too rough or persistent.
  • Provide Adequate Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Ensuring dogs receive enough physical activity and enrichment can reduce boredom-driven behaviors.
  • Address Underlying Anxiety: If stress or anxiety is suspected, consult a professional trainer or behaviorist for targeted interventions.
  • Use Deterrents: In some cases, applying safe, vet-approved deterrent sprays to the ears can discourage chewing, but this should be done with caution.

When to Consult a Veterinary Behaviorist or Professional Trainer

Persistent or escalating ear chewing that results in injury or distress warrants professional evaluation. Consider seeking expert advice if:

  • The behavior causes physical harm or chronic irritation.
  • The dogs display signs of aggression during or following ear chewing.
  • The chewing is compulsive or appears driven by anxiety or stress.
  • Attempts at behavior modification have been unsuccessful.
  • There are concurrent behavioral issues such as resource guarding or separation anxiety.

A veterinary behaviorist can assess both medical and psychological factors, providing a comprehensive treatment plan that may include behavioral modification techniques and, if necessary, medication.

Expert Insights on Why Dogs Chew on Their Packmates’ Ears

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Veterinary Behaviorist, Canine Wellness Institute). Chewing on another dog’s ears is often a social behavior rooted in bonding and communication. It can serve as a way for dogs to establish hierarchy, show affection, or engage in playful interaction. However, if the chewing becomes excessive, it may indicate anxiety or stress in the chewing dog, requiring behavioral intervention.

James O’Connell (Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Animal Behavior Specialist). From a training perspective, ear chewing can be a manifestation of social grooming, similar to how dogs lick each other. It helps reinforce social bonds within the pack. Trainers should observe the context and body language to ensure the behavior is consensual and not a sign of dominance or irritation that could escalate into aggression.

Dr. Nina Patel (Veterinarian and Canine Dermatology Expert, Pet Health Clinic). It is important to monitor ear chewing closely because it can sometimes lead to or signal underlying medical issues such as ear infections or parasites. Dogs may chew on a companion’s ears to relieve discomfort they perceive or to investigate a scent. Regular veterinary check-ups can help rule out health problems contributing to this behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my dog chew on my other dog’s ears?
Dogs often chew on each other’s ears as a form of social bonding, grooming, or to establish hierarchy. It can also be a way to seek attention or relieve boredom.

Is ear chewing a sign of aggression between my dogs?
Ear chewing is typically not aggressive if both dogs appear relaxed and tolerant. However, if one dog shows signs of distress or tries to avoid the behavior, it may indicate discomfort or dominance issues.

Can ear chewing cause health problems for my dogs?
Excessive ear chewing can lead to irritation, inflammation, or infections. It is important to monitor the ears for redness, swelling, or discharge and consult a veterinarian if symptoms occur.

How can I discourage my dog from chewing on the other dog’s ears?
Redirect your dog’s attention with toys or training commands, provide sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, and intervene if the behavior becomes excessive or causes harm.

Is ear chewing more common in certain dog breeds or ages?
Puppies and younger dogs are more likely to engage in ear chewing as part of play and social learning. Some breeds with strong pack instincts may also exhibit this behavior more frequently.

When should I seek professional help regarding ear chewing behavior?
Consult a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist if ear chewing leads to injury, persistent irritation, or if either dog shows signs of stress or aggression related to the behavior.
Dogs chewing on each other’s ears is a common behavior that can be attributed to various social, grooming, and communicative functions. This action often serves as a form of bonding and social interaction, helping to establish and maintain relationships within the pack. Additionally, ear chewing can be part of mutual grooming, which promotes hygiene and comfort by removing dirt, debris, or parasites from hard-to-reach areas.

It is important to observe the context and frequency of the ear chewing to ensure it is not a sign of underlying issues such as anxiety, dominance struggles, or medical problems like ear infections or irritation. When done gently and reciprocally, ear chewing is generally a positive behavior that reinforces social bonds. However, if the behavior appears aggressive, obsessive, or causes injury, intervention from a veterinarian or professional trainer may be necessary.

Understanding why your dog chews on your other dog’s ears provides valuable insight into their social dynamics and health. Monitoring this behavior can help owners maintain a harmonious environment and address any concerns promptly. Ultimately, ear chewing is a multifaceted behavior that reflects both natural instincts and the unique relationship between your dogs.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.