Pet Trivia: Do Dogs Like to be Held by Humans?

Pet Trivia: Do Dogs Like to be Held by Humans?

Many people have the misconception that dogs like to be held and will often ask for hugs. In fact, dogs do not want to be held, which is fun and adorable for people, but in the dog’s mind, “being touched or hugged without reason” is aggressive and humiliating.

When a human touches a dog’s body directly or invades a dog’s personal space (invisible boundaries), the dog is under tremendous stress. Some dogs have been around humans long enough to know that there is no malice in this behavior, so sometimes they don’t mind if a family member does something intimate to them, but that doesn’t mean they like it.

If a stranger, other than a family member, suddenly approaches and hugs them, the more tolerant dog will tolerate it. But keep in mind that not all dogs are so tolerant, nor do they have the patience for sudden outbursts. But dogs don’t dislike human hands and caresses; dogs need our attention and love too.

But a dog is not a plaything for people’s amusement, to be held and petted at any time. This is not a way to show love to a dog. When humans start to respect its body, the dog will appreciate humans and get close to them. Once you understand the language of dogs, you will find details in the drawings of humans and dogs that you never noticed before.

Not only are they stressed, but sometimes they are overwhelmed, frightened, and even act aggressively. Dogs rarely attack humans for no reason, and humans can be in danger if they are indifferent to the warning signs from their dogs.

When playing with children, it is important for adults to tell children to respect their dog’s privacy. Dogs also need respect, and it is best not to pet or hug them. Children should be reminded to respect the dog’s wishes and not to approach or pet the dog at will. It is also important to tell the children the meaning and importance of the dog’s “private space” and give it enough space.