Your Dog's Peculiar Behaviors: Sniffing and Licking Explained

As a dog owner, you've probably witnessed your furry friend engaging in some peculiar behaviors - from sniffing other dogs' butts to licking their own private areas. While these actions might seem odd or even embarrassing to us, they are perfectly normal for dogs and have specific reasons behind them.

I know that I have certainly been embarrassed by my boy dog on several occassions.  He not only licked his own genitals, but would lick those of any female dog he came into contact. It really was difficult to deal with when we were at the park or out walking and came across owners with their dogs. Although my dog was extremely friendly and calm, this one behavior drove me crazy. I got tired of explaining to the other owners what he was doing.

We touched on this topic briefly in this blog post about communication between owners and their dogs.  If you missed it, please feel free to go back and check it out.

Why Do Dogs Sniff Each Other’s Butts?

When dogs meet, one of the first things they do is sniff each other’s butts. This behavior, while strange to humans, is a vital part of canine communication. Dogs have an incredibly powerful sense of smell, with about 220 million olfactory receptors compared to a human's 5 million. This advanced olfactory system allows dogs to detect pheromones and other chemical signals through a specialized organ called the vomeronasal organ.

By sniffing each other’s butts, dogs can gather crucial information about the other dog, such as their gender, age, health, and even mood. This ritual is akin to exchanging business cards and helps dogs establish social hierarchies and understand each other’s intentions. It is the dog's way of shaking hands with another dog.

The Reasons Behind Butt Licking

While butt sniffing is more about social interaction, dogs licking their butts can be a sign of health issues. Here are some reasons why dogs engage in this behavior:

• Anal Glands Issues: Dogs have anal glands that can sometimes become full and uncomfortable. If they don’t express naturally, dogs might lick their butts to relieve pressure or discomfort.
• Intestinal Parasites: Parasites like hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms can cause irritation in the rectal area, leading to excessive licking.
• Skin Allergies & Infections: Allergies can cause itchy and inflamed skin, including around the rectal area. Secondary skin infections can exacerbate this irritation.
• Food Allergies: Certain food allergens can cause reactions, including irritation around the anal glands, prompting dogs to lick their butts.

When to Be Concerned

While some degree of licking is normal for grooming, excessive licking, especially of the private areas, can indicate a medical problem. Signs to watch for include swelling, redness, pustules, straining to urinate, increased frequency of urination, and foul odors. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a veterinarian.

Understanding these behaviors can help us empathize with our canine companions and recognize when there might be a health concern. Remember, what might seem odd to us is often a normal part of a dog's life. So, the next time you see your dog engaging in these behaviors, know that they have their reasons, whether it's gathering information about their furry friends or addressing a discomfort they might be feeling.

If you need more information on this topic, here are some resources you can read:

Why Dogs Lick Their Privates

Why Do Dogs Lick Their Privates? Seven Reasons Dogs Lick Their Crotch