You do many things to keep your dog happy, such as praise him, play with him, and pet him. But have you ever wondered why dogs like to be petted? Here’s what the experts say.
Yes, for the most part, dogs like to be petted. It is a way for them to feel loved and to bond with their owners. Petting is a gentle, friendly way of interaction and has benefits for both dogs and humans.
Like humans, touch is important for dogs. Dogs enjoy petting and perceive it as a form of affection from humans. Research has shown that petting releases oxytocin, commonly called the love hormone, in a dog’s brain. Therefore, when you pet or stroke your dog, the interaction is pleasant and relaxing for her and you.
You can try petting your dog on various parts of her body to see what she enjoys the most. In general, many dogs like to be petted on the lower back near the tail and on the sides of the thighs. They also love belly rubs. Some dogs enjoy being petted on the top of the head, under the chin, or on front of the neck.
You should avoid petting a sleeping dog. Your touch can startle the dog awake and result in an aggressive reaction. Also, interrupted sleep can result in a foul mood and tiredness the next day.
If it is not your pet, always ask the owner’s permission before petting their dog. Don’t lean in too close to the animal, don’t put your face close to the dog’s face, and don’t stare at the dog as this can be perceived as threatening or aggressive by dogs. Move slowly towards the dog and avoid making sudden movements. Ask the owner where the dog likes to be petted. Place a hand on that area and gently move it in the direction of the fur. Observe the dog’s body language (tensed or relaxed with tail wagging). Stop if the dog does not look happy. Avoid hugging as dogs can feel trapped and stressed by such close contact with strangers.
Over time, pet owners usually pick up canine body language and the things their dogs do and do not like them doing. Since dogs cannot talk, this is an important way to communicate with pets.
As far as petting is concerned, watch out for your dog’s body language. If she appears anxious, fearful, threatened, or aggressive when you or someone else pets her, hold off on the petting.
Most dogs do not like to be touched or petted on the muzzle, ears, paws, and tail.
If a dog does not know you, walking right up to him, leaning over, and petting him on the head may be perceived as threatening or aggressive behavior by the dog and should therefore be avoided. The right away to approach the dog would be to stand a little distance away and gently pet or stroke him on the back.
08 December, 2022