Dogs may also continue the behavior because human reactions—such as laughing, talking, petting, or giving attention—can unintentionally reinforce face licking over time.
Why Does My Dog Lick My Ears?
Dogs often lick ears because they are attracted to the scents and tastes there, and because ear licking can be a social bonding and grooming behavior.
The ear canals contain apocrine glands that produce secretions which develop distinctive odors when mixed with the natural bacteria on the skin.
Combined with ceruminous glands, which produce earwax, the ears create a collection of scents and tastes that many dogs find especially interesting.
Dogs also commonly lick one another’s ears as part of social grooming behavior.
Because ear licking involves a sensitive and vulnerable area of the body, dogs that allow another dog to lick their ears are often demonstrating a high level of trust and comfort.
When your dog licks your ears, the behavior may be driven by curiosity, grooming instincts, affection, or a combination of all three.
Why Does My Dog Lick My Feet?
Dogs often lick feet because they are attracted to the salty taste of sweat and because foot licking can become an attention-seeking behavior.
The soles of your feet contain a high concentration of eccrine sweat glands. As sweat evaporates, it leaves behind salt and other compounds that many dogs find appealing.
For some dogs, your feet and toes may simply taste interesting, making them a natural target for licking.
Foot licking can also become a game. If you react by laughing, smiling, talking to your dog, or pulling your feet away because you are ticklish, your dog may view the interaction as rewarding.
