Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and all you want is to wrap your arms around your furry best friend for some comfort. But as you lean in for that squeeze, your dog seems to freeze up, pant heavily, or even try to wiggle away. You might wonder if you’ve done something wrong or if your pup just doesn’t appreciate your affection the way you thought they would.
At Murieta Pet Hospital, our team of veterinarians, trained at UC Davis, understands that the bond between pets and their families runs deep. We see countless pet parents who want nothing more than to shower their dogs with love, and understanding how your dog interprets different types of affection can help strengthen that special relationship you share.
The Science Behind Canine Communication
Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and their understanding of physical contact differs significantly from ours. While humans naturally express love through hugging, dogs don’t typically engage in this behavior with each other in the wild. When dogs wrap their limbs around another dog, it’s often during play or to establish dominance rather than to show affection
Your dog’s brain processes a hug quite differently from yours does. The pressure and restriction of movement that comes with being embraced can trigger your dog’s natural instincts to either freeze, flee, or, in some cases, react defensively. This doesn’t mean your dog doesn’t love you – it simply means they’re interpreting your gesture through their own canine lens.
Research in animal behavior suggests that dogs can learn to tolerate and even enjoy hugs from their trusted humans, especially when they’re introduced to this type of contact gradually from puppyhood. However, this learned acceptance doesn’t necessarily mean they understand the emotional intention behind the gesture the way we do.
Signs Your Dog May Be Uncomfortable With Hugs
Learning to read your dog’s body language can help you determine whether they’re enjoying your embrace or simply enduring it. Dogs often display subtle signs of stress that caring pet parents might miss. These signals can include:
- Stiffening their body or becoming very still
- Panting when it’s not hot or after exercise
- Showing the whites of their eyes (whale eye)
- Trying to back away or escape
- Licking their lips repeatedly
- Yawning when they’re not tired
Some dogs may also display more obvious signs like growling, snapping, or trying to push you away with their paws. These behaviors aren’t necessarily aggression – they’re often your dog’s way of communicating that they need some space.
Building Positive Associations With Physical Affection
The good news is that many dogs can learn to enjoy gentle hugs when the experience is made positive and comfortable for them. Start by observing your dog’s preferred ways of showing and receiving affection. Some dogs love belly rubs, others prefer gentle scratching behind the ears, and some simply enjoy sitting close to their humans without being restrained.
If you want to help your dog become more comfortable with hugs, take things slowly. Begin with brief, gentle contact while offering treats and praise. Keep your arms loose rather than tight, and always let your dog move away if they want to. Pay attention to their body language and behavior throughout the process.
Remember that every dog is an individual. Some may never fully enjoy hugs, and that’s perfectly okay. Respecting your dog’s boundaries actually strengthens your bond and builds trust between you and your four-legged family member.
Alternative Ways to Show Your Dog Love
Dogs have their own special ways of showing and receiving affection that might be more natural and comfortable for them. Instead of hugs, try offering gentle pets, scratches in their favorite spots, or simply spending quality time together. Many dogs prefer side-by-side contact, like leaning against you while you watch TV or lying at your feet.
Physical activities like walks, training sessions, or interactive play can also be wonderful ways to bond with your dog. These activities tap into your dog’s natural behaviors and instincts while creating positive shared experiences. Consider exploring the many helpful resources available to learn more about your dog’s communication style and preferences.
Expert Care for Your Four-Legged Family Member at Murieta Pet Hospital
Understanding your dog’s unique personality and communication style is just one part of being a great pet parent. At Murieta Pet Hospital, we’re passionate about helping families build strong, healthy relationships with their pets. Our experienced team provides comprehensive care for dogs, cats, and exotic pets throughout Rancho Murieta and surrounding communities, combining advanced veterinary medicine with the personalized attention your family deserves.
Whether you’re curious about your pet’s behavior, need routine wellness care, or have concerns about their health, our UC Davis-trained veterinarians are here to help. We believe that every pet deserves exceptional care in a welcoming, family-owned environment. Ready to give your furry friend the best possible care? Call us at (916) 885-0288 or visit our convenient online form to schedule your appointment today.
