Why Do Dogs Enjoy Petting?
The link between humans and dogs is incredible, and many of the ways we show our love for our canine companions include overt physical affection like head pats, belly massages, ear scratching, and similar gestures.
Not all dogs are fond of such outward gestures of affection, but many are, indicating that canines like being petted just as much as we enjoy doing so.
What then is the rationale behind it? Here are a few reasons why some dogs enjoy being petted and why others don't, as well as some pointers on how to safely pet a dog that isn't your own.
Why Do Dogs Enjoy Petting?
Dogs probably enjoy being petted for the same reasons that they enjoy spending so much time with people in the first place.
In the roughly 20,000–40,000 years since dogs were first domesticated, they have mastered the art of communicating not only with us but also with one another.
Unlike many other animal species, dogs seem more than happy to interact with us on our terms, accepting gestures that their own species' counterparts might not, like hugs and prolonged eye contact.
Dogs and humans have developed a chemical relationship at the same time. We both feel an increase in oxytocin, or the love hormone, when we pet, cuddle or otherwise interact with them.
But not everything is based on science. There is strong evidence to support the theory that one of the main reasons dogs enjoy being petted is that it feels good, especially when the petter is someone they love and trust.
Dogs usually always let you know if they don't want to be petted, either right away or in the future. Pets are a wonderful way to show affection and deepen your bond, as long as you only give them to your dog when she/he is open to them. And if your dog isn't interested, read the space and leave the animals for later.
Why Some Dogs Do Not Enjoy Being Petted
Not all dogs are indifferent to being petted. Because of their personalities, some dogs prefer different types of social engagement with their people to being petted.
Others may be healing from trauma and react defensively or with discomfort when someone touches them. It's also possible that your dog is just unwinding and isn't feeling particularly pet-friendly right now.
Don't get upset if your dog doesn't like other animals. Our canine friends have many other ways to form bonds with us, and some might just need some time to get used to the idea of cuddles and scratches.
Being alert for indications that your dog isn't feeling friendly is the best thing you can do. These consist of the following:
- Changing their posture or leaning away from you
- they tuck their tails
- Retching their ears
- sighing nonstop or licking their lips
- yelling or yelling back at you
How to Care for a Strange Dog in a Safe Way
Wish to share some love? In many situations, it's acceptable to pet a dog that isn't yours as long as you abide by these general guidelines so that the dog and pet parent are on board.
- Get approval. Consent is not limited to exchanges between people. Before approaching a dog, find out from the caregiver if pets are allowed and observe the dog's body language to determine whether they seem receptive to the idea. Some dogs are frightened of strangers.
- Come from the side. Dogs should approach each other from the side rather than head-on to make introductions in a socially acceptable manner. Apply the same reasoning when you greet people to indicate that you do so in peace.
- Let the dog take the lead. You're better off letting the dog take the lead if they don't know you well. Let them sniff your hand by holding it out palm down. If you receive a lick and/or a wagging tail, you should be okay to move forward.
- Avoid touching your head's top. A dog who doesn't already trust you might not feel safe having you put your hand there because this is a sensitive location. The back of the dog's neck, the back and hips, and the shoulders are better places to pet a new dog.
