Why Does My Dog Nibble My Ear?

Have you ever wondered why your dog likes to nibble on your ears? Read on to clear up some questions about this curious behavior.

Why Does My Dog Nibble My Ear?

Sometimes our dogs do things that confuse us. Nibbling on our ears can seem harmless enough-and most of the time it is. But are there situations where this could be a negative behavior? We cover all of this and more in the article below.

Why Does My Dog Nibble My Ear?

Below are several reasons and explanations as to why your dog nibbles your ear:

Just Being Playful

Dogs tend to use their mouths a lot when they play. They do this with other dogs/their pack, and they see you the same way. So it is very likely for your dog to nibble on your ear during playtime or when trying to get you to play with them.

Expressing Love & Affection,

Your dog loves you. And they show their affection to others by doing things such as licking, kissing, and nibbling. They are affectionate animals and want to make their owners happy.

Investigating Smells

Dogs have an amazing sense of smell. They can detect things that humans didn’t even know were there. Maybe you scratched your ear after eating, or touched something then touched your neck or ear. You may not realize it, but your dog does. If the smell interests them or smells yummy, they may give your ear a little nibble to get a taste of whatever they smell.

Grooming

Do the pets in your house groom each other? Well this is a concept  that animals use called ‘allgrooming’. Sometimes, your dog tries to include you in this social behavior since they consider you one of the pack.

Submission

While it is possible that ear nibbling can be a sign of dominance from your dog, it can also be a sign of submission. Pay attention to your dog’s behavior when they nibble on your ear, because you don’t want to allow the behavior if it has any negative connotations.

Exhibiting Typical Puppy Behavior

From the day they’re born, puppies are always learning. This includes various types of behaviors. One of these behaviors may be nibbling things. As they grow puppies are teething a lot as well. They may nibble your ear out of curiosity or due to their teething.

Being Stressed Or Anxious

When your dog gets stressed or anxious, they may seek you out for comfort. Since nibbling on your ear is a way to be close to you and possibly act as a distraction, they may engage in this behavior.

Being Overzealous

Sometimes dogs get so excited that they get overzealous. Times that this can occur when you arrive home for the day or as the dog if they want to go for a walk. When they jump on you or get close, they may try to expend some of this overzealous excitement by nibbling on you.

Needing Something From You

There may be an innocent reason for your dog to nibble your ear. It may just be that they need something such as being fed or going to the bathroom.

Being Dominant Or Aggressive

Dogs are pack animals. They communicate with behaviors that display dominance or submission to other members of the pack. It is possible that  is a sign of dominance or aggression. To be certain you can ask your vet or a professional trainer.

Lacking Proper Training

If your dog is not trained properly, they will not know what behavior is acceptable and which is not. Ear nibbling is considered one of these behaviors. However it is never too late to train your dog properly.

They Want To Know You More

If your dog/puppy has recently joined the family, naturally they will be curious about you. They may want to become familiar with you. They may only act on this behavior until they become used to you.

They Seek Familiarity And Comfort

Your dog loves you. We’ve mentioned that they like to show their affection by nibbling and giving kisses. So if your dog is feeling anxious and wants your attention, they may nibble your ear. Your close presence and familiar scent will be comforting to them.

They Are Bored Or Hungry

Does your dog like to chew on things when they are bored or hungry? This could be a reason that they are nibbling on your ear. They are trying to tell you that they want some exercise/play time or want to be fed.

They Like The Taste Or Smell

Your dog may smell something on you-lotion, perfume, etc-and like the smell of it. Sometimes they may nibble at you to try and taste whatever scent it is that they’re smelling.

They Are Excited,

Sometimes when your puppy nibbles on your ear, it is because they are excited. Older dogs tend to have other reasons they do this. Puppies can get attached to you in the blink of an eye and are excited to show their affection by giving you a little nibble.

Attention-Seeking

If your dog is nibbling your ear, they may want your attention. They are social and if they feel like they are being ignored and not getting enough attention, they may nibble your ear to get it.

Teething

As we’ve mentioned briefly above, a normal behavior for your puppy is teething. This causes them to chew on things they find around the house. Sometimes, when you are cuddling with your puppy, they may choose to nibble on you-in places like your ear-because of this behavior.

How To Discourage Your Dog From Nibbling On Your Ears?

Below are some options you have to discourage your dog from ear nibbling:

Stop Encouraging The Behavior.

One of the most effective ways to stop encouraging the behavior is to be firm. Tell them no and make it clear to them that they cannot act on this behavior. The most important thing with this tactic is to be consistent.

Change And Redirect Its Focus By Providing A Distraction.

If you notice that your dog is starting to take an interest in your ears or is attempting to go for them, you can implement a distraction. This will deter them from nibbling behavior. Do not allow them to get close enough, and supply them with a toy or other distraction.

Encourage The Dog To Chew On Other Things Instead.

Another solution to keep your dog from nibbling on your ear, you can give them something else to chew on. Toys, bones, and other treats can be good options for your dog to chew on instead.

Exercise Your Dog Regularly To Release Excess Energy.

We’ve covered how sometimes your dog may nibble your ear because they are excited or get overwhelmed. This could be because they need to exercise or release some energy. Taking your dog to the park to play or taking them for a walk may help them to do that.

Consult A Dog Trainer For Additional Guidance.

If you’re finding it difficult to rid your dog of the nibbling habit, you can consult a dog trainer to help you. You can search for reputable trainers online, ask your friends who also have dogs, or consult your vet.

Find Out Why They Nibble On Your Ear And Provide Solutions To Address Those Needs.

Your first step is to figure out if your dog is nibbling because they need something. This can help you to prevent nibbling because you can anticipate their needs/wants.

Ensuring Your Dog’s Basic Needs Are Met (E.G., Exercise, Food, Social Interaction)

Sometimes your dog may have a need that isn’t met, so they try to communicate that to you by nibbling your ear. They could be hungry, want to go out for a walk, or other dog activities. Make sure to pay attention to your dog’s actions along with the nibbling. They may go over to their food bowl or the door after you set them down.

Feed Them Nutritious Food In The Appropriate Quantities And Frequency.

Your dog’s food could be the reason that they are nibbling your ear. They may not be getting enough in quantity or the food may not be nutritious enough. You can consult your vet to find the best food for your dog.

To Better Understand Your Dog’s Ear Nibbling Behavior, You Can:

 

Observe Your Dog’s Body Language And Context

As we’ve discussed, there are numerous reasons that your dog will try to nibble your ear. By observing your dog’s body language and the context of the situation, you can better understand this behavior.

Rule Out Medical Issues Or Parasites

If your dog is nibbling your ear, they may be trying to tell you that they are not feeling well. Pay attention to your dog to see if they are showing any other signs of illness. If they act lethargic, vomit, or seem to have trouble breathing, get them emergency help right away.

Reward Positive Behavior And Redirect Or Ignore Negative Behavior

If you don’t want your dog to nibble your ear, then you can give them incentive to stop the behavior. Give them a treat or other type of reward when they show positive behavior/listen when you tell them do or not do something. If they don’t listen or act on a negative behavior, you can redirect it to other activities or ignore it so your dog will know they won’t get a reaction from you.

Ear Nibbling Can Be Reinforced Or Discouraged By The Owner’s Response

The behavior of ear nibbling can be either reinforced or discouraged by you. If you don’t have a problem with your dog nibbling, then you can allow them to continue. If you react by petting them or giving them attention for example, your dog will be encouraged. If you try the methods that we’ve discussed to deter your dog from nibbling, then they will not continue the behavior.

Tips Or Strategies For Training Or Redirecting A Dog’s Ear Nibbling Behavior

Below we list and explain several different ways to train or redirect your dog from nibbling:

Establish Clear Boundaries And Rules

It is important to set clear boundaries with your dog. If you do not want your dog to nibble your ear, you must teach them this through thorough training.  If you have any questions or concerns you can always consult your vet or a dog trainer.

 

Be Patient, Consistent, And Respectful Of Your Dog’s Needs And Personality.

It is important to be patient and consistent when training your dog not to nibble ears. It is always important to respect your dog’s needs and understand their personality. They may do it because they are lacking something else. Also, they may have an affectionate personality so they show it by nibbling your ear.

 

Do Dogs Show Affection By Nibbling?

Yes; dogs do show affection by nibbling your ear.

Is Ear Nibbling Always Negative?

Ear nibbling is not always a negative behavior for your dog. However, it is important to keep an eye on this behavior if you allow your dog to nibble, be aware of the possible dangers and be ready to stop your dog if need be.

 Examples / Anecdotes That Illustrate How Ear Nibbling Can Be A Positive Behavior In Some Contexts.

Ear nibbling can actually be a positive behavior. Your dog can be trying to play with you or show you affection. They consider you to be a part of their pack and treat you as they would another dog. It is also the most effective way for them to convey their emotions. (Such as when they kiss us or try mouthing) Whether it’s play time or cuddle time, your dog may try to nibble you, and it is ultimately your decision as to whether you want to allow them to continue the behavior.

What To Do If Your Dog Won’t Stop Nibbling Your Ear?

If your dog won’t stop nibbling your ear, you have several options. You can try the training methods we’ve mentioned in the article, consult your veterinarian, or hire a trainer to help you rid your dog of this behavior.

 

Should You Worry About Your Dog Nibbling On Your Ears?

You don’t always have to worry about your dog nibbling on your ears. Sometimes it can be a positive behavior. You just have to pay attention to their actions and body language.

Should You Allow Ear Nibbling?

It depends on whether or not you should allow ear nibbling. You can discuss with your veterinarian or a trainer to determine whether or not you should allow your dog to continue nibbling.

Why Does My Dog Nibble My Ears And Hump Me?

Your dog could do this because they get excited or overzealous. It could be part of their instinct, they may want/need something from you, or they are bored.

Mouthing Vs. Nibbling

Mouthing is a different behavior than nibbling. When a dog mouths, they make a sort of grabbing action with their mouths. This is a good way for dogs to explore things that are unfamiliar to them. This is a very common behavior for puppies.

Why Does My Dog Nibble My Nose?

Usually, a nose stands out on a person’s face. Given that when you cuddle with your dog, you have your face close to them. Dogs-especially puppies-will be curious about it or try and show affection and act on this behavior.

Why Does My Dog Nibble My Chin?

Your dog may nibble your chin for the same reasons that they nibble your nose or ears. They may find something interesting about your chin and use nibbling as a way to inspect and explore things.

Why Does My Dog Nibble My Fingers?

Your dog may nibble your fingers for the same reasons that they nibble other parts of you. (Affection, curiosity, needing something, smelling something on your skin etc). Another possible reason is if you are petting them or playing with them. Having your fingers close to their face may make them playful or excited and they react by nibbling.

Why Does My Dog Lick Then Nibble Me?

Your dog will lick and then nibble you because they are trying to be affectionate. Another possible reason that they do this is because they smell or taste something on your skin that appeals to them. Finally, they could also be trying to mark you as part of their pack.

Why Does My Dog Nibble Me With Front Teeth?

Your dog may nibble you with their front teeth because they want to be gentle and affectionate. They usually enact this behavior on their humans, blankets, and favorite toys.

Why Do Dogs Nibble Other Dog’s Ears?

Dogs nibble other dog’s ears because they want to be playful and affectionate. They do it for the same reasons that they may nibble you.

What Is A Pibble Nibble?

A pibble nibble is when your pitbull dog nibbles you. It is a common behavior amongst pitbulls.

Why Does My Dog Nibble On Me Like Corn On The Cob (What Is Cobbing?)?

‘Cobbing’ is simply another term for nibbling. This is because when dogs nibble, they do it gently with their front teeth; almost as if they were eating corn on the cob.

 

Why Does My Dog Nibble My Hair?

Similarly to the reasons your dog may nibble your ear, nose, etc, your dog may try to nibble your hair. There could be a scent from your shampoo or perfume that your dog finds appealing.

 

Resources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6116041/

https://www.petmd.com/blogs/thedailyvet/ktudor/2014/jan/are-dog-licks-unhealthy-for-people-31207