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Dogs are known for being loyal and loving companions. They are also known for their silly antics, which can sometimes be confusing to us humans. One such behavior is male dogs licking the privates of other male dogs. This may seem like a strange thing for them to do, but there are actually several reasons why they might do it. In this post, we’ll discuss some of those reasons and provide tips on how to stop the behavior from continuing.
Table of Contents
5 Reasons Why Dogs Lick Other Dog’s Privates
1) Greeting Them
Just like humans shake hands or hug when they meet someone new, dogs will often sniff each other’s privates as a way of greeting and getting to know one another. This is considered to be a very normal and non-aggressive behavior among dogs.
To them, sniffing and licking another dog’s privates is simply a way for them to say hello and show friendliness. Getting so close to the other dog shows trust and playfulness. So in a way, it’s saying hello I think we should be friends.
2) Health Check
When a dog licks another dog’s privates, they can also be checking to see if that dog is healthy and free of any diseases. This is especially important for female dogs who are about to mate.
Dogs have a very keen sense of smell and can often tell if something isn’t right just by taking a sniff. Licking is another way for them to gather information about the other dog’s health.
So, if you see your dog licking another dog’s privates, it could just be their way of figuring out if that dog is healthy and free of any problems.
3) Getting a Better Understanding Of Them
When a dog licks another dog’s privates, in general, they are trying to get a better understanding of that dog. This is because the private area contains a lot of important information about the other dog.
For example, the scent of a female dog’s private area can tell a male dog if she is ready to mate. The scent of a male dog’s private area can also tell other dogs a lot about him, such as his age, health, and social status.
So, by licking another dog’s privates, your dog is simply trying to gather more information about the other dog.
4) To Groom Them
Dogs also lick other dogs’ privates as a way to groom them. This is especially common among mother dogs, who often lick their puppies’ privates to keep them clean.
But, even adult dogs will sometimes lick each other’s privates to groom and keep them clean. This is because the private area is often difficult for dogs to reach when grooming themselves.
If you notice your dog often licks your other dog’s privates, it could be their way of demonstrating a labor of love. They love their furry family member and want to keep them clean, so they help groom their privates.
5) It’s Simply a Habit
Some dogs simply lick other dogs’ privates because it’s a habit. This is often the case with puppies who will lick anything and everything they can get their mouths on.
As they grow older, some dogs never outgrow this habit and continue to lick other dogs’ privates, even as adults. If your dog falls into this category, it will take some consistent training to break this habit.
You can try to redirect their attention by giving them a chew toy or bone to lick instead, but ultimately it’s going to be a lengthy process of changing the habit.
6) To Show They See Them As a Friend & Not a Threat
When a dog licks another dog’s privates, they are also trying to show that they see the other dog as a friend and not a threat. This is because licking is often considered to be a submissive behavior in the dog world.
If they’re willing to get close and personal like that, then it’s a clear sign that they aren’t going to be aggressive toward the dog they’re sniffing. Their body language is much different, and body language is huge when it comes to how dogs communicate.
So, if you see your dog licking another dog’s privates, it could just be their way of trying to show that they’re friendly and not a threat.
How To Stop Your Dog From Licking Other Dog’s Privates
1) Don’t Let It Happen Too Much
If you don’t want your dog to lick other dogs’ privates, then it’s important that you don’t let them do it too much. The more they do it, the more likely it is to become a habit.
While it’s absolutely normal behavior, some dogs take it a little too far and lick other dogs’ privates far too much. This is when you’d want to redirect their attention.
After a couple of licks, when it starts to become a little excessive, redirect their attention to something they enjoy. This could be a chew toy, bone, a favorite treat after getting them to do a trick/behavior, or even just your hand to lick.
The key is not to let them get into the habit of licking other dogs’ privates too much. A little bit is fine, but if it becomes excessive, you’ll want to redirect their attention.
2) Increase Exercise & Mental Stimulation
Another way to help stop your dog from licking other dogs’ privates is to increase their exercise and mental stimulation. This is because a lot of dogs lick as a way to relieve boredom or stress.
So, if your dog is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation, they’ll be less likely to lick other dogs’ privates to relieve boredom or stress.
Make sure your dog is getting at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walks, runs, playing fetch, etc. You should also be doing some sort of mental stimulation with your dog every day.
This could be training sessions, puzzle toys, food dispensing toys, etc. Anything that will help keep their mind active and engaged.
If you can increase their exercise and mental stimulation, then it’s less likely that they’ll lick other dogs’ privates.
3) Health Check
If your dog is licking other dogs’ privates more than usual, it could be a sign that something is wrong. For example, if they suddenly start licking other dogs’ privates excessively, it could be a sign of your dog having stress or anxiety or a sign that the dog they’re licking has a health condition.
If you notice your dog licking other dogs’ privates more than usual, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet for a health check. This way, you can rule out any possible health issues and get them to help if necessary.
4) Get Help From a Professional Trainer
If you’re struggling to stop your dog from licking other dogs’ privates, it might be a good idea to get help from a professional trainer. They will be able to help you figure out what’s causing the behavior and how to best stop it.
They can also help you with redirecting your dog’s attention and teaching them alternative behaviors. This is often the best option if you’re struggling to stop your dog from licking other dogs’ privates on your own, and it’s a behavior you’d really like to see stop.
FAQs
Why Do Male Dog Lick Other Male Dogs Privates?
While the exact reason remains unknown, there are a few possible explanations for why male dogs might lick other males’ privates. One possibility is that it’s simply a way of showing submission. By licking another dog’s private parts, a male dog may be demonstrating that he sees the other dog as being in charge.
Alternatively, some experts believe that male dogs may lick each other’s privates to exchange hormones or pheromones. This theory suggests that by licking another dog’s genitals, a male can pick up on information about its reproductive status and health.
Finally, it’s also possible that male dogs simply enjoy the taste or smell of another dog’s genitals. While this behavior may seem strange to us, it’s perfectly normal for dogs and is nothing to be concerned about.
Why Does My Female Dog Lick My Male Dogs Privates?
It’s no secret that dogs enjoy spending a lot of time licking their own privates. But why do female dogs sometimes extend this behavior to male dogs? One theory that we’ve already touched on is that it’s a way of showing submissiveness.
By licking a more dominant dog’s genitals, the female could be indicating that she sees him as the pack leader. Another possibility is that she’s simply trying to get his attention. Dogs often lick each other’s faces to ask for food or affection, so it’s possible the female dog is hoping for a similar response from the male.
It’s also possible that she simply enjoys the taste or scent of his genitals. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that genital licking is just one more example of the many ways in which dogs communicate with each other.
Why Is My Older Dog Licking Puppy Privates?
If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my older dog licking puppy privates?” you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and there can be a few different reasons for it.
One possibility is that your older dog is simply trying to be helpful. Puppies often have difficulty cleaning themselves, so your older dog may be trying to lend a hand.
Another possibility is that your older dog is attracted to the puppies’ scent. Puppies often have a strong, musky smell that can be appealing to dogs.
Finally, it’s possible that your older dog is feeling anxious or stressed. Licking can be a self-soothing behavior for dogs, and puppies are generally pretty calm and relaxed creatures. So if your older dog feels stressed, he may see licking the puppies as a way to relieve some of that tension.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to keep an eye on your dogs to ensure the licking isn’t getting out of control. If it seems like your older dog is getting too fixated on the puppies, or if the puppies seem uncomfortable, it’s best to separate them and provide each with their own space.
Why Do Male Dog Lick Other Female Dogs Privates?
Canine body language is complicated, and there are many reasons a male dog might lick a female dog’s genitals.
It could be a form of social grooming or simply an expression of affection. Sometimes, it may even be an attempt to mount the other dog. Therefore, it is important to observe the context in which the licking occurs to determine its meaning.
If the licking is accompanied by other dominant behaviors, such as mounting or aggression, then it is likely that the male dog is trying to assert his dominance over the female. However, if the licking is gentle and non-intrusive, it is more likely that the male dog is simply being friendly.
How To Stop Male Dogs From Licking Each Other
Male dogs will often lick each other as part of their social grooming behavior. This is perfectly normal and usually nothing to worry about. However, if the licking becomes excessive, it could be a sign of anxiety or insecurity. If you think your dog is licking too much, there are a few things you can do to help him feel more comfortable.
First, make sure he is getting plenty of exercise. A tired dog is less likely to be anxious and more likely to curl up and take a nap instead of licking his buddies.
Second, provide plenty of opportunities for socialization. If your dog feels confident and secure in his relationships with other dogs, he will be less likely to engage in excessive licking behavior.
Finally, give him plenty of positive reinforcement when he is not licking. This may include treats, petting, or simply your attention and approval. With a bit of patience and effort, you can help your dog feel more relaxed and stop him from excessive licking behavior.
Final Thoughts
Dogs have a long history of social licking behavior, and it is thought to serve a number of purposes. Whether it’s a sign of submission, a health analysis, or simply a way to show affection, dogs use licking as one way to communicate with each other.
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