Why does my dog do that?
Why does my dog lick other dogs' faces?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Face licking between dogs is a normal greeting and deference gesture, rooted in the same puppy instinct of licking an adult's mouth to prompt feeding. A younger or less confident dog typically initiates it toward an older or more assertive dog, and most dogs on the receiving end tolerate it calmly if they know the other dog well.
The greeting ritual
When two dogs meet, especially if one is a puppy or notably younger, a quick round of face licking toward the more senior dog's muzzle often follows the initial sniff, functioning as a polite hello that also signals respect for the older dog's status. Confident adult dogs typically stand still and tolerate this briefly before moving on to normal interaction.
When it becomes excessive
A dog that licks another dog's face repeatedly and insistently, especially if the other dog turns away, stiffens, or shows whale eye, is pushing past a polite greeting into something the recipient finds uncomfortable, which can trigger a growl or snap as a fair warning to back off.
What owners should watch for
If the receiving dog keeps trying to move away and the licking dog keeps following, step in and redirect rather than waiting for a correction from the other dog, particularly with dogs that do not know each other well.
Key takeaways
- Face licking between dogs is a normal greeting rooted in puppy feeding behavior.
- Younger or less confident dogs typically initiate it toward more senior dogs.
- A recipient turning away or stiffening signals the licking has gone on too long.
- Redirecting an insistent licker prevents an unnecessary correction from the other dog.