Introduction
There has been ongoing debate about whether dogs actually enjoy being hugged by humans. Many dog owners like to embrace their pets as a natural display of affection. However, some experts argue that hugging may cause dogs stress and discomfort. In this article, we will explore the evidence behind dogs’ reactions to hugging, analyzing studies on canine behavior and body language.
Some key questions we aim to answer include: Do dogs have negative psychological responses to hugging? How can you tell if your own dog dislikes being hugged? Are certain breeds or individual dogs more likely to dislike hugging? And what alternatives to hugging can owners use to show affection while keeping their dog comfortable?
By reviewing scientific research and expert opinions, we hope to provide dog owners with a thorough understanding of this issue. There is still debate around whether all dogs hate hugs, or dislike them only in certain circumstances. Looking at the latest evidence, we strive to reach a nuanced conclusion on if, when, and how owners can hug dogs in a way that feels good for both human and canine.
Dogs Don’t Express Emotions the Same as Humans
Dogs do not have the same facial musculature as humans, so they are physically incapable of making human-like expressions like smiling or frowning. According to the American Kennel Club, while dogs do feel basic emotions like sadness, anger, fear, and happiness, they do not experience more complex emotions like guilt, pride, shame, or contempt.
Instead, dogs rely more on body language to convey their emotional state. For example, a wagging tail, relaxed ears, and soft eyes can indicate happiness, while stiff body posture, pinned back ears, and bared teeth can signal aggression or fear. Dogs communicate their feelings through facial expressions, vocalizations, and posture. Since their facial expressions differ from humans, it is important to learn a dog’s individual body language to understand their emotions.
As stated by Modern Dog Magazine, dogs have a more limited emotional range compared to humans. While dogs feel basic emotions, they do not experience more abstract feelings. So we cannot assume a dog’s inner state mirrors our own.
Signs a Dog is Uncomfortable with Hugging
Even if a dog doesn’t growl or snap when being hugged, they may still feel uncomfortable or anxious. Subtle body language cues can indicate if a dog is unhappy with hugging. According to the ASPCA, some signs a dog wants to avoid a hug include leaning away, licking their lips, yawning, and “whale eye” where they turn their eyes towards the hug but not their head.
Dogs may lean their body away from the hug to avoid full contact. Excessive lip licking shows anxiety. Yawning when not tired demonstrates stress. Whale eye indicates feeling threatened and avoiding eye contact. Paying attention to these cues allows you to release the hug and help the dog feel more comfortable.
Why Dogs May Dislike Hugging
One of the main reasons dogs may dislike hugging is that it can make them feel restrained. When humans hug dogs, they often do so by wrapping their arms around the dog’s neck. This places pressure on the dog’s neck and throat, which can feel threatening and uncomfortable (AKC). It restricts the dog’s movement and ability to pull away if they want to.
Dogs also don’t communicate through hugging the way humans do. While humans use hugs to show affection, dogs see it as restraint. So even though the human’s intent is to show love, the dog may perceive it as threatening and scary. The pressure and restraint of a hug can cause dogs to feel trapped and anxious (Treehugger).
Overall, hugging goes against a dog’s instincts and natural forms of communication. It can make them feel confined and uneasy, which is why many dislike it.
Certain Dogs More Averse to Hugging
While most dogs tend to dislike hugging, certain types of dogs are even more likely to react negatively to hugs from humans. This includes:
Rescue dogs – Dogs from shelters or with unknown backgrounds may associate hugs with past mistreatment or restraint. Without proper socialization, they view hugs as threatening rather than affectionate. According to the ASPCA, it’s best to avoid hugging recently adopted rescue dogs until you can gauge their comfort level.[1]
Shy dogs – Timid, anxious, or fearful dogs often dislike physical handling, including hugging. Hugging can overwhelm them and exacerbate their stress. It’s better to build trust gradually with these dogs through treats, toys, and gentle petting.
Dogs unfamiliar with hugging – If a dog lacks experience being hugged as a puppy, they may not understand the purpose of hugging. Without desensitization training, they’re likely to squirm, try to escape, or react defensively to hugs.
The ASPCA recommends teaching dogs to enjoy hugging from an early age by pairing it with positive reinforcement. However, even dogs socialized to accept hugs as puppies may grow less tolerant as they age.[1] Knowing your individual dog’s personality and preferences is key to determining their comfort with hugging.
How to Hug a Dog Properly
When hugging a dog, it’s important to be gentle and let the dog initiate and control the interaction. Here are some tips for proper dog hugging etiquette:
First, get on the dog’s level and invite them over, rather than grabbing them or leaning over them. Allow the dog to approach you and sniff you before attempting to hug. Let the dog set the pace.
When you do hug, do it gently and refrain from squeezing or restraining the dog too tightly. The AKC recommends starting with a “hug” that is more like a gentle petting session, and then slowly progressing to lightly holding the dog if they seem comfortable. However, this should still be a light squeeze, not a bear hug.1
Pay attention to the dog’s body language – if they squirm, duck their head, flatten their ears back, or lick their lips, they are probably feeling anxious or uncomfortable. Immediately back off if the dog seems distressed.
With patience and positive reinforcement, some dogs can learn to enjoy quick hugs on their own terms. The key is to make it a pleasant experience for the dog by keeping it light and giving them control.
When Hugging Is Inappropriate
You should avoid hugging your dog if they are showing clear signs of fear, anxiety or aggression. Dogs communicate their discomfort through body language. Some signs your dog wants to avoid a hug include:
- Lip licking or yawning
- Turning their head away
- Crouching down or leaning away
- Tucked tail
- Ears back
- Whites of eyes showing
- Growling or baring teeth
Forcing affection on a dog exhibiting these behaviors can increase their stress and potentially provoke a defensive reaction like snapping or biting. It’s important to respect your dog’s boundaries. If they don’t enjoy hugs, find other ways to bond with them.
According to the AKC, some dogs are more averse to hugging, especially those bred to work more independently from humans like Shibas, Chihuahuas and Chow Chows. Herding breeds like Border Collies as well as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may also dislike restraint.
Ultimately, pay attention to your individual dog’s signals. If they recoil, struggle or avoid your hugs, then refrain from this interaction. Forcing it can damage your bond and undermine trust.
Alternatives to Hugging
While hugging can make some dogs uncomfortable, there are plenty of other ways to show your dog affection that they are likely to enjoy more.
Petting or stroking your dog is a common alternative to hugging that most dogs appreciate. Focus on petting areas like their head, neck or chest where they can see you. Some dogs also enjoy having their belly rubbed. Let your dog move away if they want, and avoid petting areas that seem to make them uncomfortable.
Playing with your dog is another great way to bond and have fun together without hugging. Engage your dog’s natural instincts by playing fetch, tug of war or hide and seek with their favorite toys. This is a great way to burn off excess energy and fulfill their need for mental stimulation.
Giving your dog treats or special snacks is something most dogs always appreciate. Make sure to give treats in moderation and avoid overfeeding. Consider using healthy treats as a reward during training sessions.
Allow your dog to cuddle on their own terms. If your dog wants to get close to you, let them make the first move instead of grabbing them for a hug. Lay or sit down and see if they initiate contact. Respect their preferences if they prefer their own space.
Teaching a Dog to Enjoy Hugging
While most dogs don’t innately enjoy hugging, you can teach your dog to become comfortable with it through desensitization and positive reinforcement. The key is to go very slowly and make the experience positive for your dog.
Start by touching your dog gently on the side or chest, then immediately providing a treat. Continue providing treats each time you touch your dog. Gradually work up from a light touch to briefly putting your arms around your dog for just a second or two before letting go and giving a treat. Don’t increase the amount of hugging until your dog seems totally comfortable with the current stage.
Over many training sessions over weeks to months, slowly increase the hugging duration by just a second or two as long as your dog continues to be comfortable. Always pair the hug with high-value treats. Eventually your dog may learn to enjoy brief hugs from you when associated with rewards. However, most experts advise to keep hugs brief and gentle.
Forcing a dog to accept prolonged squeezing if they are uncomfortable can lead to negative associations and potential behavioral issues over time. Work within your own dog’s limits rather than expecting them to enjoy hugging as much as a person might. Patience and positive reinforcement are key when teaching dogs to enjoy activities outside of their instincts.
Conclusion
In summary, while some dogs tolerate hugging, most do not actually enjoy it. Dogs show affection differently than humans, and hugging goes against their natural communication methods. Respect your dog’s preferences and body language when showing affection. Rather than hugging, focus on providing praise, pets, play, and treats as positive reinforcement. Though you may wish to hug dogs like you would a person, it is important to interact with them according to their needs. With patience and proper conditioning, you can teach your dog to enjoy hugs. However, never force physical contact on a dog that remains uncomfortable.