Do Dogs Like Ear Rubs? Vet-Approved Care Tips

It’s almost universal among dogs. You pet their head, sliding your hand down to give your pup’s ears a good rub, and your pooch suddenly seems like they’re on cloud nine as they lean into you. The answer to the question is evident. Most dogs love ear rubs! You may wonder why it feels so good. The answer potentially lies in the pet-owner bond and the so-called love hormone, oxytocin.

Does Rubbing Your Dog’s Ears Strengthen Your Bond?

Research has found that dogs are adept at reading human emotions, both positive and negative.1 They can modulate their responses accordingly. Undoubtedly, the atmosphere is pleasant when you rub your pet’s ears. It sets the stage for a bonding experience. Any cuddling or petting can strengthen your bond, and the attention you give your pet reinforces your relationship with them.

There’s another benefit to rubbing your dog’s ears, though. Getting your pet used to being touched will make grooming and vet visits infinitely more manageable. Reputable breeders will start this practice when the puppies are as young as 6 weeks old. Forging positive associations with treats will create lasting impressions that future pet owners will appreciate.

The Feel-Good Response in Dogs

The act of rubbing your dog’s ears probably feels good for them. Think of how you feel when you get a massage. Some research suggests these experiences encourage your dog to release oxytocin.2 This hormone-neurotransmitter plays a role in mother-infant bonding and romantic relationships. It may also have a similar function within the pet-owner bond. However, the research is mixed.3

Petting your dog may also stimulate them to release another hormone associated with mood called dopamine. Endorphins could also be boosted, sometimes called natural pain relievers. That finding is significant when you consider reasons why ear rubs might feel so good to your pet.

Red Flags With Ear Rubs and Dogs

Otitis externa describes inflammation of the external ear canal. It causes the typical signs of an immune response, including redness, swelling, and itchiness. When you rub your dog’s ears, you may be satisfying an itch your pet can’t reach. We all know how pleasant that feels. Your pup may lean into you so that you can get to places deeper in the canals. Infections can cause otitis externa. Other reasons include adverse food reactions and allergies. Some breeds are more prone to otitis exerna, such as Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and Basset Hounds. According to Nationwide Pet Insurance, ear infections are the second leading cause of owner claims. Telltale signs include the following:

• Foul odor
• Frequent headshaking
• Redness
• Discharge
• Excessive wax buildup
• Yelping when the ears are touched

Your dog may enjoy the ear rubs because they’re itchy. The odor is often the last straw for many pet owners to get them to the vet. We strongly urge you to get your dog to the clinic if you notice any of these signs. Ear infections can be painful and untreated ear infections can lead to secondary problems like hematomas and middle-ear infections.

If you are concerned about your dog's ears, we recommend you speak with a vet

Final Thoughts

Ear rubs are an excellent way to bond with your dog. It undoubtedly feels rewarding to do something your dog enjoys. The mechanism behind your pet’s response involves the release of several hormones, resulting in your pooch’s pleasure for extra attention and physical contact with you. Ear rubs can reinforce your positive relationship with your dog with a simple gesture. However, it could also just be relieving an itch, so if your dog is experiencing any other negative signs with their ears, it’s best to get them to the vet.

• Related read: Why Does My Dog Rub His Face on Me?

Featured Image Credit: Bachkova Natalia, Shutterstock