If you’ve ever watched your dog gently nibble, lick, or “flea bite” another dog, you might have wondered what’s going on. Is it affection, play, dominance, or just plain odd? Good news: this behavior, often called social grooming or allogrooming, this “flea nibbling” is normal and usually a sign of trust and bonding.

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What’s Really Going On

Dogs groom each other much as primates or cats do. When one dog uses tiny, rapid front-tooth nibbles on another’s fur, it’s typically a pro-social bonding behavior.

Grooming is a common behavior in dogs and is almost always a sign of a close bond … even if it seems gross or excessive to humans.

In plain English: if your dog is nibbling their housemate’s fur, ears, or back, they’re saying, “You’re part of my family.”

The Science Behind Allogrooming

In their wolf ancestry, cooperative grooming helped maintain pack relationships. It’s not just hygiene; gentle touch and grooming can release oxytocin (the “bonding hormone”), strengthening emotional ties. That rhythmic, back-and-forth “corn-cobbing” is your dog’s version of a hug.

When It’s Totally Normal

If the dog being groomed looks relaxed and receptive, there’s nothing to worry about. Many dogs enjoy the attention, especially from trusted companions. Common grooming zones include:

• Around the ears and face
• Along the neck and back
• Paws or legs

Some dogs even “groom” their humans. Cute, if a little pinchy!

When to Keep an Eye On It

• Obsessing on one spot? Check for irritation, hot spots, parasites, or minor wounds.
• Is the other dog uncomfortable? Look for stiffening, turning away, or moving off. If so, gently interrupt.
• Escalation to rough biting or mounting? Redirect calmly and provide a short break or enrichment.

The Verdict: Love, Not Dominance

Owners often notice nibbling starts after dogs have lived together for a while. That’s a clue: the behavior typically blossoms as dogs settle in and bond. Think of it as, “You’re family now.”

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Bottom Line

Social grooming between dogs is a sweet, natural sign of affection. Unless it becomes obsessive or irritates the skin, there’s no need to stop it; go ahead and celebrate the love.

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