For the majority of dogs, the answer is no. Dogs do not cuddle, they will usually interpret a hug as restraint or pressure. Most will tolerate a hug but if you observe their body language, they are not comfortable and relaxed. The feeling of confinement normally sets off a ‘fight or flight’ stress response.
The dog cannot flee and does not want to fight as that would mean biting or scratching a loved owner. Some cannot cope with the escalating stress hormones and will bite. A hug usually involves face-to-face contact with a person; so if they do bite, it is invariably on the face. Children are especially vulnerable to this injury and should be taught not to hug or physically restrain dogs.
You may be reading this thinking, my dog loves hugs – and some do; but with some research, we can explore whether your dog is comfortable and what to do if they are not.
Introducing the “Hug Researcher”
In 2016 a dog psychology Professor Stanley Coren carried out a study to look at how dogs respond to hugs. He looked at 250 images of dogs being hugged (1). He analysed the distress signals shown in the dogs’ body language.
When dogs are distressed, the signs can be fairly subtle. An uncomfortable dog will turn their eyes, head or body away from you. They will freeze, staying very still. Some will lick their lips or yawn in an exaggerated way. Their ears flatten and you can often see the whites of their eyes. Professor Coren found that 81% of dogs showed one distress signal when hugged, 11% didn’t show any, appearing not to care about hugs and 8% appeared to enjoy it. So, the majority of dogs appeared uncomfortable.
We show love and affection by hugging, so it seems odd that dogs do not enjoy hugs.
However, domestication has not removed their sense of self-preservation. Dogs are more likely to flee a threatening situation than fight. When we hug them, they cannot escape and their feelings of stress escalate. A hug appears threatening as they are confined, also in dog language standing over another dog is seen as an act of intimidation.
Eye contact is also intimidating to dogs and it is difficult to avoid eye contact when you are face to face with someone. Personality and history play a part here as an anxious dog who has suffered abuse or poor socialisation as a pup may have a more extreme reaction.
As dogs are non-verbal communicators, body language is their mainstay. It is important for us to notice changes that reflect discomfort. The American Veterinary Medical Association and many researchers (2) advise that children are taught not to hug dogs as they may find it more difficult to notice their subtle body language.
Dogs do love affection
We can learn what our dogs love best, for some heaven is a scratch behind the ear, others love a belly rub. Many dogs will happily lean against you or snuggle on a sofa or bed, as long as they are not held tightly and can escape, they seek out contact. Allow your dog to seek affection in a way they appreciate.
Timing is also important
Following a dog to their bed and insisting on a hug may well backfire. Dogs need some time alone, a safe, peaceful place and rest.
If you still want to hug your dog…
Then it is possible to train them slowly to accept and be relaxed in a loose hug. Begin with touching and stroking with positive reinforcement, treats and praise usually make a positive impression. Keep training sessions short and allow the dog to choose to cooperate. Always allow escape.
Observe your dog for signs of discomfort if they show any distress signals cease training or take a step back. By incrementally increasing the physical contact while rewarding the dog you can build positive associations with gentle, loose hugs. It remains essential to be aware of context. If your dog is over-stimulated or exhausted, a hug may still be a step too far.
And never encourage children to hug dogs… because even if yours is fine, someone else’s might not be.
Professor Coren’s conclusion was to keep your hugs for humans. Find a way to express affection that your dog is comfortable with and teach all members of the family to love your dog in a dog-friendly way.
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