Why Do Dogs Rub Their Faces After Eating? Causes Explained
Dogs are known for their amusing and sometimes puzzling behaviours, and pulling faces after eating is one of those quirks that many owners notice. Although these expressions can look comical, there's generally a good reason behind them relating to your dog’s health and comfort.
This article explores the common reasons why dogs make funny faces post-meal, helping you understand your canine companion better and ensuring their wellbeing.
1. Eating Too Fast
Many dogs eagerly gulp down their meals without much chewing, especially breeds like Labrador retrievers that are famously food-driven. Eating too quickly can cause discomfort as their stomach and digestion struggle to catch up. This often leads to dogs pulling faces, opening and closing their mouths, or making odd movements as their body adjusts.
Slow down your dog's eating by:
- Using puzzle feeders or placing obstacles in the bowl
- Offering smaller, staggered portions throughout the day
- Hand-feeding to encourage slower consumption
2. Food Trapped in Teeth
Just like people, dogs can get food caught between their teeth after a meal, especially with harder kibble. Since they can't use floss or toothpicks, your dog might lick or pull funny faces trying to dislodge the particles. This is a natural reaction to irritation in their mouth.
3. Food Particles Stuck to Gums
Sticky or wet foods sometimes cling to your dog’s gums, which can be tricky to remove with their tongue alone. The unusual sensation of something stuck in their gums may cause your dog to make faces or use paws in an attempt to clean their mouth.
4. Inhaled Food and Choking Hazards
If your dog accidentally inhales food while eating rapidly, it may tickle or irritate their airway, causing coughing or gagging. This irritation often results in facial expressions as they attempt to clear their throat.
Choking can be serious. Signs may include distress, hacking, or coughing, but sometimes choking is quiet and subtle, requiring immediate owner intervention. Learn how to act quickly and safely to help a choking dog here.
5. Scenting and Taste Enhancement
Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell, which enhances their taste experience. They possess Jacobson’s Organ, a specialised scent organ in the roof of the mouth. Pulling back lips or opening the mouth can boost this organ's function, helping your dog savour lingering scents of a pleasant meal, sometimes resulting in unusual facial expressions.
6. Dental Issues
Painful gums, loose teeth, or dental diseases can make eating uncomfortable for dogs. Signs include dropping food, slow or careful eating, foul breath, and odd facial expressions during or after meals. Proper dental care and regular visits to a qualified veterinary dentist are essential to keep your dog comfortable and healthy.
7. Normal Canine Body Language and Comfort
Finally, some facial movements after eating are part of normal canine communication. Pulling faces can indicate contentment, relief from mild mouth irritation, or simply a natural way dogs adjust after mealtime. Occasionally, dogs may rub their faces on surfaces to spread their scent, marking their eating area in a harmless behavioural ritual.
Promoting Responsible Dog Feeding
To keep your dog happy and prevent discomfort-related face-pulling:
- Feed high-quality, easily chewable food suitable for your dog's size and breed.
- Encourage calm, slow eating habits to avoid choking or indigestion.
- Maintain regular dental hygiene with vet-approved teeth cleaning products and check-ups.
- Watch for persistent or unusual signs of discomfort after eating and consult your vet if concerned.
Understanding these reasons helps owners provide better care and maintain their dog’s wellbeing. If unsure about any odd behaviours or face-pulling after meals, a consultation with your vet is always recommended.
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