Humans naturally desire to express affection through hugging, kissing, or cuddling. Fortunately, some dogs love to be hugged or petted and loved also! However, some aren’t. The accurate way to show your dog how much you appreciate is to pay for the things she prefers and give the type of interaction eyes, touch, and engagement that she is comfortable with ideally – while avoiding imposition of your favorite or indiscreet method of playing or petting on a dog that she’s not interested or uninterested.
To determine the kind of affection and contact she genuinely enjoys, conduct a “consent test”: Sit close to your pet. As soon as your dog is close to you, make contact. It is the perfect first touch when you typically scratch your chest (not over your dog’s head; there aren’t many breeds that do it!). You can scratch or pet your dog for around three seconds, after which you can remove your hands. She encourages more physical contact if your dog moves closer or nuzzles your hand with a relaxed smile.
Do not hesitate to enjoy if you’ve got the luxury of a cuddle buddy. If your dog likes to scratch beneath the chin or get a relaxing massage, go for it. If your dog is a fan of eye contact directly with you, take a long time gazing at her eyes.
The dog’s mind can be changed, so even if they allowed extra petting initially, watch out for signs that she’s been through sufficient time and is ready for the pampering to end. If she decides to leave and leave, do not be afraid to take her off! Consider the places and ways you put her on your lap when she decides to leave; she might not be happy with how you interact with her! (For additional information on consent testing, check out “Does your dog opt-in? How to Communicate With Your Dog.”)
Loving Alternatives to Touch
It is essential to know that some pets prefer not to touch! If your dog falls into one of these dogs, you should show affection for her by engaging in activities she loves. The more fun she can enjoy with you, the more strongly she’ll feel the joy she experiences during these adventures.
If you are a fan of walking activities, commit to regularly scheduled strolls in the woods and “sniffer” adventures, giving plenty of time to take in all the scents she desires. If she is a fan of rousing games like fetch, tug, or even find-the-secret treat, take the time to engage in these activities at least once per day, if not longer, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Remember to train! Fun, relaxed, no-force training will ensure your dog feels at ease, respected, and appreciated by the people around them! This is communication at the end of the day. Additionally, well-trained dogs have many benefits: visiting the homes of your friends and family members and social outings with other dogs, humans, and other animals. Even off-leash hiking and canine sporting events.
Remember that regardless of how well-intentioned traditional training methods that rely on coercion or the flawed “dominance” concept have been proven scientifically to harm the dog’s health, well-being, and level of living. The sound of a happy vocal tone, sweet encouragement, precise cues (rather than “commands”), and careless handling will show that you love your dog. The non-force tools and methods that build strong relationships built upon mutual acceptance, trust, respect, and cooperation are an original expression of your affection for your dog.