Question:
Just a quick inquiry. I have a 4 year old GSD and just recently purchased a pup who is now 5 months old. It took about two months for the older of the two to get used to the new girl and they get along wonderfully. My question is why does the pup lick the older dog's teeth and gums? I have read this is part of a ritual of the packs for the pups to do this to their mother to encourage regurgitation. The older shepard will also hold the pup's muzzle closed with her mouth but never to the point where the older dog is aggressive or hurts the pup. Everytime they play this happens and ever time the pup will lay on her back and show her belly to the older dog so that the older dog can sniff her out. Should I be concerned with this behavior? Can this lead to aggression in the pup if she is too submissive to my older dog? If this behavior should not be encouraged, how do I discourage them from doing this during play? My thinking is the older dog is showing the pup she is the "big dog" in the pack and she's putting the pup in her place. We purchased both of our GSD at the age of 6 weeks old. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Judy
Answer:
It is not ONLY to stimulate pack members to regurgitate. It is also a sign of subbordination...she is telling the older dog "You are the boss, I know it and I'm cool with it." and the fact that the older dog is allowing it, rather than trying to escape, is a really good sign that she accepts the pup as a part of HER pack. Let it go on, it is good for their bonding and establishment of who ranks where.
Answer:
Licking another dogs mouth or teeth shows signs of submission. Like humping behaviour...all part of establishing pack order.
Don't worry!
Answer:
You have to admit, it is a bit weird when they do it to you! Nothing quite like it
Answer:
Hmmm, can't say I have ever allowed my dogs to lick my teeth...but yeah, the younger pup (mixed breed) does try
Answer:
I don't allow but occasionally they do manage to get me! Usually it is when we are doing a "veg-out" and they are snuggling up. Then someone will reach up and get me! I am working on it's okay to give me a chin lick but let's not go higher than that.
Answer:
My male will assist in grooming both of the girls. The girls are on their back in the submissive position and really seem to enjoy the attention.