Have you ever fed your dog and then watched him eat and saw him rub his face afterward? It’s only now that I’ve given it some serious consideration, when it struck me as odd. It became a quick obsession to have a complete explanation for why he was doing this.

If you’ve ever wondered why your dog’s face looks a little irritated or happy after a meal, you’re not the only one. To get to the bottom of it, keep an eye on their conduct and see if there is a pattern to it. The first important thing to consider is whether or not you’ll need the assistance of a veterinarian.

Why do dogs rub their face after eating?


When you eat, do you rub your face afterwards? It certainly seems like a funny habit to us. But we are not dogs, so we do not know what goes on in the minds of dogs when they do this. Researchers have studied it, however, and here’s what they found out.

1. A dog taking a clean to the face

Dogs have a remarkable sense of smell, therefore some food will stick on their faces when you feed them. When this happens, your dog will get a funny taste in his mouth, and he’ll begin to rub his face in order to clean it off as much as possible

While some dogs may simply be taking care of themselves, others might also be doing it because they’re anxious about something else happening around them. If you see your dog scratching his face every time he eats or drinks, You may want to take him to the vet to be examined to rule out any underlying medical conditions that are causing this.

Additionally, certain dog breeds have more face creases than others. With more facial creases, there are more places for food, grime, and even germs to seep into, consequently greater discomfort.

And when you see this behavior regularly after feeding your mutt a meal, then try scrubbing its muzzle with a washcloth. You’ll be able to spend meaningful time with your dog while still keeping him clean.

2. Expression of satisfaction and delight

Even though a wagging tail often expresses a pup’s happiness, face-rubbing is also another method to convey it. Dog behaviorists often refer to face-rubbing and other signs of happiness as “contentment ceremony motions” to describe these behaviors. Puppies’ “contentment ceremony” is a set of signs they use to convey how pleased they are with their dinner.

Even when you’re making the pup’s meal, a dog might start rubbing its nose on the floor, then proceed with rolling and rubbing its snout. It’s possible for your dog to make both of these movements at the same time by stroking its Face from eye to nose.

These actions aren’t limited to dogs that have just had a particularly appetizing meal, though. So, it’s still best to look for additional important gestures before concluding.

3. Relief from discomfort

If your dog eats too rapidly, his throat or stomach may hurt. Rubbing his Face after eating can help relieve this discomfort. In addition to rubbing his Face, dogs will often paw at their mouths and lick themselves with their tongues in an effort to relieve discomfort.

Observing your dog making this move while showing indications of anger, though, is another story. Signs of irritation include puffiness, runny eyes, and ulcers on the gums. You may even detect some flinching if you touch its snout.

Call your veterinarian straight once if you see any of these signs. Puppies will brush their snouts on an item to relieve discomfort since they can’t tell you where the pain is originating from.

You may want to check on your mutt’s appetite if there are any changes. A dog presenting with a hurting tooth likes to eat less or perhaps develops a sudden preference for soft food. Other times, a pup may consume its normal meal but will only chew on one side.

4. Tight collar

Another possible reason for rubbing your dog’s Face is if he has a tight collar on that he can’t get off easily. If your dog has a collar that is too tight or if he simply doesn’t like wearing one, he may rub his face on the floor or carpet after eating in an attempt to take it off.

And To verify the perfect fit isn’t rocket science. Simply put two fingers under your dog’s collar, and that’s all.

If you’re able to slip two fingers under the collar, you’re good to go, then it’s not tight. As long as your fingers aren’t becoming snug, it’s time for a new collar adjustment.

5. External parasite infestation

An external parasite infestation could also cause your pet to rub his Face after eating. Dogs and cats are often infected with external parasites such as fleas and ticks, but they are usually not serious enough to require treatment unless they interfere with your pet’s quality of life (for example, fleas causing itching).

When these parasites dig their fangs into a dog’s body, their saliva interacts with the pup’s skin, eventually producing irritation.

When the dog’s face is the source of discomfort, it will lick and lick its Face until the inflammation subsides.

To alleviate your dog of itching, you may visit the vet to purchase a prescription for medication. You may also purchase prophylactic treatments to avoid dealing with these critters again.

6. Brain tumor

Tumors of the brain are a prevalent cause. This can be a very serious condition and should be checked by your veterinarian immediately if you notice this behavior in your dog.

Another reason could be that they are experiencing pleasure from eating something they really enjoy.

There are also other reasons that would cause this type of behavior, such as allergies or irritations around the nose and mouth area.

However, don’t believe every face-rubbing is a symptom of a brain tumor. Tumors are unlikely to be the cause of the gesture unless seizures and other behavioral problems accompany it. Canine brain tumors may be life-threatening, but there are cancer therapies designed particularly for canines that have made a significant improvement in survival rates.

The new research undertaken by Northwestern Medicine, Texas A&M University, and ImmunoGenesis concerning therapy for glioblastoma in dogs has shown that the treatment could even be feasible in people.

7. Pleasure

Dogs rub their faces after eating because they are experiencing a pleasurable sensation. In a study done by experts at the University of Lincoln in England, they found that dogs taught to hunt for food in an empty box were more likely to succeed.

The researchers found that when the dogs were given food, they would rub their faces against the sides of the box before eating. If no food was given, however, there was no rubbing behavior. They also found that this rubbing behavior increased when the dogs had more than one meal per day.

The researchers think that this rubbing is caused by endorphins, which are chemicals released by the brain when certain activities occur, such as eating and exercise. These chemicals cause pleasure and can help reduce pain and stress levels in humans and animals alike.

8. Your dog isn’t hungry yet

Puppies have a propensity to be quite possessive about their food. It’s likely that rubbing his Face into the ground (particularly around the bowl) suggests that your dog is attempting to “bury” his food until he has more of an appetite after you’ve presented it to him. Trying to conceal their food from other animals is a frequent habit in the outdoors for dogs.

Dogs that engage in this activity will often spend a few minutes rubbing their noses on the ground around the dish in an effort to “bury” their meal. Once your dog learns that he will be unable to conceal the food, he may opt to eat it instead. Some dogs even “protect” their food by lying close to their bowls until they are ready to consume it.

9. Something else is happening

Pre-meal rubbing of the food with the dog’s nose usually does not causing for alarm. This is particularly true if your dog goes on to eat a regular meal and appears pleased afterward. Unfortunately, if you’re witnessing this behavior and your dog is refusing to eat or has looked to have a sudden shift in his eating practices, then this might be the symptom of an underlying medical ailment or other problem that needs to be handled.

10. Some object is lodged in their mouths.

Even your dog does not like the sensation of food stuck between the teeth. For dogs with canine malocclusion, eating might be especially difficult since their teeth don’t line up correctly. The pain of food jammed between the misaligned teeth might lead your dog to rub his head or paw at his Face.

Your dog’s underbite could make him appear charming, but if he’s stroking his head after eating, it might prompt a trip to the doctor for a dental exam. You should take your pet to the vet as soon as you see any concerning symptoms, such as foul breath, bleeding gums after eating, or a reluctance to be patted on the head.

A trip to a veterinary dentist may be necessary, as your veterinarian can make that determination. The canine dentist may fix your dog’s uncomfortable dental disorders by realigning teeth using orthodontics or removing bothersome teeth.

7 Important things to consider while dogs rub their Face after eating

why does my dog cry when i come home

1. The act of expressing pleasure

The most common way that dogs show their joy is by rubbing their noses together after they have eaten. For example, if you offer them their favorite dish, there’s a strong chance you’ll see this Face on your dog. “Post-meal joyful dance,” as the name suggests, is performed after a meal.
Sometimes you may observe the dog rolling around on the floor after a meal, which is also one of the finest methods to demonstrate contentment. If this occurs after having a wonderful meal, there is nothing for you to worry about, and you may enjoy this happy dinner dance with your dog.

2. It’s scrubbing its chin

Cleanliness is essential to dogs, and they are willing to do anything for it. For example, if people feel that their Face is not clean after eating a meal, they attempt to clean it by rubbing it.
You can notice that they are rubbing their Face at various angles to clean them correctly. Not to add that they can rub their faces on any surface. For example, you will observe them rubbing their noses on the sofa. Then in the very next minute, they relocate to the carpet.

3. A way of expressing happiness

Satisfaction may also be shown by rubbing your Face after eating. If their hunger is satiated, they will indicate it by stroking their cheeks. Sighing with relief and beaming with joy, you’ll see their features have changed. When this gratification is paired with their excellent mood, it also leads to a post-meal happy dance.

4. Sanitizing their snouts

After eating, dogs’ muzzles are cleaned by rubbing them together. They may experience pain if anything becomes lodged in their mouth or nose. They massage their cheeks to alleviate their discomfort and remove the gunk.

If their actions irritate you, you should take the appropriate action and clean things up on your own. After having it cleaned, they will not repeat this.

5. It boosts their self-esteem

Rubbing their faces after eating food also helps dogs feel wonderful. They attempt to rub it over various materials and textures and occasionally on the other objects accessible in the surroundings. If you attempt to stop them from doing it, sometimes they act angrily too. Before you take any action, make sure your dog is in a good attitude. Be sure to remain cool in the face of this crisis rather than shouting at the children.

They may even swoon from the agony, which may be so severe that it is persistent. Pay heed to it since it’s an emergency signal.

6. They have a tight collar on.

Be careful not to over-tighten their collar. As a result, they may encounter difficulties and can wipe their faces and necks on the ground when the collar is tight. You’ll see that they’re also rubbing it on the furniture.

If you’ve just purchased a new dog collar, be sure to thoroughly check it before placing it on your pet. In the event your dog is wearing it, remove it for a few minutes and see whether or not your dog is behaving in an appropriate manner. They will feel more at ease if the collar is loosened or tightened.

7. Eye Irritation

Another common reason for scratching your eyes in annoyance. Your dog will get agitated if anything gets lodged in its eye. They start wiping it over rugs and furnishings to get it out of their eyes.

You’ll notice that their eyes are red and runny. If you observe any issue like this, visit the veterinary specialist promptly so that they can provide you with the appropriate prescription to obtain treatment from it.

What to do about dogs rubbing their faces after eating?

1. They’re Happy

Breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers are very food-motivated and frequently fairly passionate about eating.

Your dog can simply be displaying how thrilled they are to be tucking into a tasty dinner. Keep an eye on their behavior both before and after the meal is provided. If they’re hopping about, wagging their tail, and displaying unmistakable indications of enthusiasm in anticipation of feeding, scratching their muzzle is probably simply an extension of that eagerness.

2. They like order and cleanliness

Your dog may be attempting to clean himself in the same way people do when they pick at their teeth or wash their faces after eating. Also, make it a point to inspect your dog’s teeth. The food they’re consuming can become lodged in there and hurt their teeth or gums.

Dental care is critical for canines. Make it a point to wash their teeth or offer them toys like a Nylabone to promote dental hygiene. If their Face and muzzle seem unclean or inflamed, make sure you wash them often and use a decent shampoo to maintain them that way.

Oatmeal and aloe shampoos are wonderful for itching dogs, and while dogs are terrific at keeping themselves clean, they require a little additional care from time to time. If a medicated wash is required, speak with your veterinarian.

3. Fleas, Mites, and Ticks

This is a pet owner’s nightmare come true.

It’s a nightmare if your dog is infected with one of these nastinesses. Comb their fur and inspect them for bugs periodically, particularly if they’re spending a lot of time outside.

Be extremely cautious if you’re in a strange setting, even if you’re simply visiting. You should also be particularly watchful if your dog is around other new dogs, too! It is necessary to be careful about these sorts of parasite insects. If they continue untreated for too long, the health repercussions for your beloved pet might be devastating. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

4. They are wearing a bad

Something as basic as your dog’s collar might be causing them misery or discomfort. Check to check if the collar is overly tight or if there is anything stuck in it that might cause discomfort.

Is the collar soiled?? A dog’s sensitivity to various detergents/fabrics is similar to how people have developed a habit of only wearing clean clothing.

5. Allergy to certain foods

The first indication of an allergy in your dog can be wiping its Face on the carpet after eating.

Have you lately modified the food your dog eats? Started feeding them anything new, possibly a vitamin or a supplement? It’s possible that it’s not compatible with their setup. When altering a dog’s diet, they need to acclimatize slowly at the risk of disturbing their tummies.

6. Problems with your teeth and gums

Examine the area surrounding the teeth and gums for any signs of inflammation. Notify your doctor if you notice any swelling, discomfort, or pain in the region around your muzzle. Gums that are pale or white in color are a warning indication that something is obstructing the passage of blood to the canine body. Check their teeth to make sure nothing seems loose, rotting, or diseased.

7. Problems with the eyes/nose

This might potentially be an eye condition. It is probable that the region surrounding the dog’s eyes, which is prone to developing a crust or buildup, is inflamed.

Check their eyes for any dust or particles that might give them discomfort. Make it a point to study their nose, too. In one instance, a dog began scratching her head and sneezing, to find that she had a bit of grass caught in her nose.

Why does my dog roll around after eating?


We have seen many dogs engage in a strange habit after eating. It seems like the food goes down and the belly gets full but then they give another little roll followed by the big stretch of their back legs. You might think that it’s just because they’re bloated (and they probably are) but there’s actually more interesting science behind this behavior.

Our doggie friends love to eat. And they usually do it with gusto, almost like they are in competition with each other. As a result of this enthusiasm, Our dogs often consume too much and need to be able to expel the excess food from their digestive tracts. This is where the rolling around comes into play.

When our pups are full and have eaten too much, they will roll around on the floor and rub their bellies on the carpet or rug as if trying to digest their meal faster. This is called “stomach tumbling,” and it helps your dog get rid of any extra gas or food that may not have been fully digested yet.

If your pup has an upset stomach or diarrhea, he may also vomit while rolling around because he is trying to expel everything from his system as quickly as possible so that he can feel better again!

You can help your dog by feeding him smaller portions more frequently throughout the day (rather than leaving out lots of food all at once). This way, he won’t overeat and then feel sick afterward!

To stop my dog from licking his food off his feet, what can I do?

There are a few options to consider if you’ve noticed that your dog is licking his lips after eating.

1. Try changing your diet

If you suspect a skin allergy in your dog, you may want to experiment with changing your dog’s food to see if it helps. A new food may be the cause, especially if your dog has just recently switched to it.

Changing to a skin-sensitive formula or another natural kibble mix may be an excellent strategy to remedy the issue for certain dogs who are just more sensitive to certain components.

2. Visit a Veterinarian

Your dog can benefit from a medical visit if you notice that he’s still clawing at his face and nose after eating new food. A dental checkup for your dog is the best way to ensure that there is nothing wrong with his or her mouth. Oral and dental problems are usually discovered at this point.

3. Let It Happen

Unless your dog looks to be scratching his Face out of discomfort or agony, this activity is normally nothing to worry about. After eating, many dogs may massage their faces to show their contentment or to remove any crumbs that may have remained. If it’s not upsetting you or your dog, this habit may not need to be adjusted at all.

Watch Is the food poisoned | Dog rubbing its Face after eating | Video

Top 5 FAQs and answers related to Dog rubbing its Face after eating

If you’ve ever seen your dog rubbing its face after eating and wondered “why does my dog do that?”, then this post is for you. Your Dog might be doing it for the same reasons mine does. Hopefully, this post will answer some of your questions and put an end to your frustration.

After eating, why does my dog start to roll around?

Plenty of dogs roll about on the floor or generally behave foolishly after they’ve eaten a meal. As long as your dog looks to be pleased when rolling about and does not seem to be in any form of discomfort, this is a completely natural habit that does not need to be rectified. It’s possible that he’s just trying to let you know how glad he is that he got to eat.
Your dog may be allergic to a food component in his diet, or he may have an underlying medical ailment.

Why does my dog wipe his Face before eating?

While it’s relatively usual for a dog to massage his Face after eating, what if you find that this activity begins before your dog has even delved into his food? As bizarre as this behavior may appear, there are several alternative answers to explore.

No, your dog doesn’t need food right now. But

Dogs have a propensity to be quite possessive about their food. It’s likely that rubbing his Face into the ground (particularly around the bowl) suggests that your dog is attempting to “bury” his food until he has more of an appetite after you’ve presented it to him.
Trying to conceal their food from other animals is a frequent habit in the outdoors for dogs. Your dog is performing the same thing at home because of sheer instinct; it doesn’t matter if there are no other animals in the house to “hide” the food from. Your dog can’t help his evolutionary behavior!

What is the purpose of post-meal cleaning in dogs?

Anxiety, discomfort, and worry can all be alleviated by dogs licking or nibbling on themselves, which produces endorphins in their brains. It’s common for dogs who are bored, stressed, or irritated to lick themselves excessively as a way of coping with the discomfort.

What does pawing at the mouth mean?

It’s common for dogs to put their paws and lips on humans, not to harm us, but rather to get us to play and be kind with them. Mouthing and pawing is the term for this. Puppies are most likely to experience this, but it can continue throughout adulthood.

Conclusion

It’s also a question that will continue to spark curiosity until it’s solved, as self-grooming is a fundamental survival instinct for dogs and most other animals. We’ll keep researching this question and updating the article periodically as more information becomes available, but for now, I think you can make the educated conclusion that dogs are cleaning their faces after eating.

Bottom up

So, I hope you got the full idea on Why Does My Dog Rubbing Its Face After Eating: 10 Reasons

Please comment below about your ideas and share this “Why Does My Dog Rubbing Its Face After Eating: 10 Reasons” article with your friends.

Stay tuned with our website to find out more exciting stuff. Don’t forget to check out our previous articles too.

Until the, Read about, Why Are Pitbulls So Clingy: Reasons with Guide to Reduce It

Write A Comment