This article was written by a Petful team of behavioral experts and writers, including Pamela Merritt and T.J. Banks.
Photo: nastogadka
Petting a dog causes a chain reaction of signals in our brains, making us feel happy. Studies have shown that people can experience an increase in oxytocin, called the “cuddle hormone,” during interactions with companion animals. Oxytocin triggers feelings of trust and happiness.
In one such experiment, from 2009, subjects who played with their dogs and made eye contact with them for a few minutes experienced a 20% jump in oxytocin levels. Here’s the sweet part: The increase in feel-good chemicals works both ways. That is, both you and your pet experience an increase in oxytocin.
A 2011 study found that dogs’ oxytocin levels significantly increased. And a 2016 experiment found that oxytocin shot up nearly 60% in dogs. All of which is to say, petting is a great thing! It builds bonds.
But there are lots of “wrong ways” to go about petting a dog. In this article, we share our best advice on petting, picking up pets, and rubbing bellies.
How to Pet a Dog: The Don’ts
Dogs’ preferences range from belly rubs to neck, shoulder, and head petting to back scratches.
Here are a few “don’ts” you should know when trying to determine a dog’s favorite petting spot:
1. Don’t try to pet an unfamiliar dog right after being introduced:
Let the dog come to you. Greet them with a relaxed, outstretched hand (palm down). Let them smell your hand, then gently pet them around the ears.
2. Don’t try to pet a dog while they are barking:
You might get bitten.
3. Don’t stare:
Sure, fleeting eye contact with the dog is fine, but some dogs perceive prolonged staring as a threat.
4. Don’t pet a dog you don’t know:
Don’t pet a dog you don’t know. Even friendly dogs will bite out of fear.
5. No sudden movements
Don’t jerk your hand back every time the dog’s nose touches you. Even though you may mean this to be a playful gesture, the dog may see it as a threat.
Puppies
Gently massaging a puppy’s mouth and gums will feel pleasant to them and will help get them used to having their mouth handled, which will make things easier when you begin a regular dog toothbrushing routine. Puppies also welcome foot massages, which may help make future nail trimmings less stressful.
How to Pet a Dog Properly
Dogs aren’t all that big on being picked up. They’ll come over for petting and sometimes even play at being lap dogs, but it has to be when they want it. Here are three things to keep in mind:
1. Go Slowly
Don’t try to pick the dog up right away. Let them become familiar with you and your scent first. Hold out your fingers for them to smell.
2. Hold on Loosely, but Don’t Let Go
A dog needs to feel that they’re being held securely with your hands firmly supporting both their upper body and hindquarters. It’s a fine line between “firmly supporting” and “holding hostage.”
3. Let Them Down When They Want Down
Why Doesn’t My Dog Like Being Held?
Many dogs simply don’t like being held. There are a few possible explanations for this. Some dogs spook more easily than others, and picking them up would terrify them. These scaredy dogs prefer understated gestures, such as an affectionate scratch behind the ears or just sitting with them in
Final Thoughts
Learning how to pet a dog properly can significantly enhance your bond with your canine companion. By understanding their favorite spots and respecting their personal space, you ensure that petting sessions are enjoyable for both you and your dog. Always approach your dog calmly and observe their reactions to determine their preferences. Remember, each dog is unique, so be patient and attentive to their needs. With these tips, you can make petting a rewarding and positive experience, strengthening the trust and affection between you and your furry friend.
For tips on petting your feline friends, check out our guide on how to pet a cat.
References
- Nagasawa, Miho, et al. “Attachment Between Humans and Dogs.” Japanese Psychological Research 51, no. 3 (September 2009): 209–221. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1468-5884.2009.00402.x.
- Handlin, Linda, PhD, et al. “Short-Term Interaction Between Dogs and Their Owners: Effects on Oxytocin, Cortisol, Insulin and Heart Rate—An Exploratory Study.” Anthrozoös 24, no. 3 (September 2011): 301–315. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2011-20317-006.
- Wanshel, Elyse. “Who Loves Their Humans More: Cats or Dogs? Here’s the Answer.” HuffPost. Feb. 1, 2016. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/cat-vs-dog-who-loves-humans-more_n_56af85a4e4b077d4fe8ed1ed.
