Introduction
Dogs have a unique way of showing affection towards humans. One of the most endearing ways dogs display their love is through hugging. While dogs don’t hug in the same manner as humans, they have found their own special way to give hugs. This article will provide an overview of the various ways dogs hug their human companions as an expression of love.
What is a Hug?
A hug is a form of physical intimacy where two or more people wrap their arms around each other to express affection, warmth, support, gratitude and other positive emotions (Merriam-Webster, 2023). The purpose of a hug is to show love, care, appreciation or comfort through physical closeness and a gentle, affectionate embrace.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, to hug means “to stay very close to something or someone” (Cambridge Dictionary, 2023). When we hug someone, we are pulling them in tightly to make full contact between our two bodies as a display of fondness and attachment.
The Dictionary.com definition states that to hug means “to clasp tightly in the arms, especially with affection; embrace” and “to cling firmly or fondly to; cherish” (Dictionary.com, 2023). So hugs allow us to hold our loved ones close to let them know they are cherished.
How Dogs Physically Hug
Dogs don’t hug the same way humans do, but they have their own version of hugging. The most common way dogs try to hug humans is by wrapping their front legs around a person’s neck or torso. According to sources, when dogs embrace you with their front legs, they are exhibiting clinging behavior that originates during puppyhood (https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/should-you-give-your-dog-hugs/; https://www.iams.com/dog/dog-articles/do-dogs-hugs).
Puppies cling to their mothers while nursing and require support when moving around during the first few weeks. This clingy behavior transitions into leaning and hugging behavior as dogs get older. When dogs wrap their front legs around humans, they are reverting back to that infantile need for affection and closeness. It’s their innate way of holding on.
However, this type of hugging does not come as naturally to dogs as it does to humans. Since dogs walk on all fours and their bodies aren’t designed for hugging, they can find this position uncomfortable if held for too long. Their legs may appear hug-like wrapped around a human, but it isn’t equivalent to a human style embrace.
Why Dogs Hug
One of the main reasons dogs show affection through hugging is simply because they love their owners and want to show them how much they care. Many dogs see their owners as family and hugging is a very human form of affection that dogs have learned to mimic (ASPCA Pet Insurance). Hugging is a dog’s way of strengthening the bond with their owners and conveying feelings of trust and love. It is often done as a greeting, especially after the owner returns home after being gone. Dogs tend to hug and lick their owners most upon being reunited as this is when their excitement to see each other is the strongest.
In addition to showing love and affection, dogs also hug their owners for comfort and reassurance. If a dog is feeling anxious, stressed, or afraid, they may hug their owner in order to feel safe and secure. The physical contact and closeness of hugging provides a sense of protection and relief for the dog. This is similar to when young children hug their parents when they are upset. Dogs see their owners as a source of safety and will hug them to be reassured when feeling uncertain or scared.
When Dogs Hug
Dogs hug at various times for different reasons. Some of the common times and reasons dogs hug their owners include:
When Excited – Dogs often hug their owners when excited, like when their owner returns home after being away. The dog may jump up, put their paws on the person’s shoulders and lean in for a hug.1
When Scared – Dogs may also hug for reassurance when they are scared. For example, during loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks or construction noises, a dog may hug their owner tightly for comfort and security.2
When Happy – Dogs often hug their owners when they are feeling happy and affectionate. A dog may initiate a hug when being petted or praised by leaning in close and wrapping their paws around the person.3
As a Greeting – Some dogs are very enthusiastic greeters and will jump up to hug their owners when they get home or when greeting guests at the door. This is their way of saying hello and showing affection.
When Lonely – Dogs who are left alone for long periods may hug their owners tightly when they finally return, as they missed the company and affection.
Overall, dog hugs are a sign of affection, enthusiasm, excitement and sometimes a need for reassurance from their owner.
How to Encourage Hugging
There are positive, rewarding ways to teach your dog to give hugs that enhance your bond together.
The key is to use lots of positive reinforcement through praise, petting, and treats when your dog engages in hugging behavior. Start by gently placing your dog’s front paws on your shoulders and rewarding him. Use a command like “Hug!” as you guide him. With repetition, he’ll learn to hug on cue. Make sure to reward every attempt.
Hugging training sessions are great bonding activities for you and your dog. Keep them short, fun, and upbeat. End on a good note with a reward so your dog associates hugs with good feelings. Avoid frustration or scolding. Be patient as some dogs take longer to learn new tricks.
In addition to formal training, look for everyday moments to reinforce hugging. When your dog hops up looking for affection, guide him into a hug. Reward him with enthusiastic praise and cuddles. The more chances he gets to practice hugging and get rewarded, the quicker he’ll learn this heartwarming trick.
Signs Your Dog Wants a Hug
Dogs have some clear signals that show they want to give you a hug. The most obvious signs a dog wants a hug include:
Jumping up – When a dog jumps up and places their paws on your shoulders or chest, they are mimicking a human hug. This full body contact is your dog’s way of hugging. While some trainers discourage jumping up, in the right context it can signal your dog’s desire for a hug (https://metro.co.uk/2016/04/28/7-signs-that-your-dog-really-loves-you-5845865/).
Pawing at you – If your dog gently paws at your arm, leg, or chest, they are trying to get your attention and request some affection. When paired with “hugging eyes,” pawing is a sign your dog wants a hug from you.
Whining – Some dogs will whine or bark softly when they want your attention. When they are also staring at you or leaning in for contact, whining can be a request for a hug.
Different Dog Breeds and Hugging
Certain dog breeds are known for being more affectionate and likely to give hugs than others. Some of the top dog breeds that love to hug their humans include:
Labrador Retrievers – Labs are very loving, loyal, and eager to please, making them one of the most popular dogs for families. They will often paw at their owners as a sign of affection and many Labs enjoy draping their paws around people for hugs (Source).
Golden Retrievers – Like Labs, Golden Retrievers are extremely friendly and affectionate. They form strong bonds with their families and will lean against people looking for hugs and physical contact (Source).
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels – This gentle and loving breed enjoys being in constant close contact with their owners. They often snuggle up in laps looking to be petted and held (Source).
Bulldogs – Despite their gruff appearance, Bulldogs are known for being very sweet, mellow dogs. They love human interaction and will often paw at legs or climb into laps for hugs and cuddles.
Certain individual dogs may also be more likely to hug, regardless of breed. Looking for dogs specifically bred to be affectionate and friendly can increase the chances of having a dog that enjoys hugging their humans.
Safety Tips for Hugging Dogs
While dogs can enjoy hugging their owners and family members they know and trust, caution should be exercised when hugging unknown dogs or dogs showing signs of discomfort or dislike for hugging.
Make sure you get consent from the owner before hugging or touching their dog. Some dogs may react negatively to hugs from strangers due to fear or anxiety. Look at the dog’s body language – tense muscles, ears back, tail down or tucked, and avoidance of eye contact are all signs a dog may not want to be hugged.
If a dog shows any of these signs or growls or snaps when hugged, immediately stop hugging them. Forcing affection on an uncomfortable dog can lead to bites or aggression. Children especially need to be taught proper dog safety and not to hug dogs without the owner’s explicit permission.
Even with familiar dogs, look for any body language that communicates they don’t want to be hugged at that moment. Respect a dog’s personal space. And never hug a dog who is sleeping, eating, injured or ill.
While most dogs tolerate hugs from their loved ones, many do not intrinsically enjoy them. Look for other ways to bond with your dog, like playtime, walks, praise and treats.
Conclusion:
In summary, dogs hug for several key reasons. First and foremost, hugging allows dogs to show love and affection for their owners and strengthen the bond between pet and human. When a dog puts their paws around you and nuzzles in close, they are communicating how much they care for you. Hugs are also a sign of trust, as dogs will only embrace those they feel completely comfortable with. Additionally, some dogs hug instinctively when excited or happy to see you after an absence. Certain breeds like Golden Retrievers are especially prone to hugging when greeting their owners. While every dog has their own unique way of showing affection, hugging is a clear sign that your pup wants to be close to you. By understanding why dogs hug, we can nurture even stronger connections with our canine companions.