Many dogs find being hugged unpleasant and one cause of dog bites in children when kids cuddle dogs who are not accustomed to it. This is a very short video of a very patient labrador , who though showing signs of discomfort, is able to tolerate the little boy clinging to her. Interesting annotations by dog trainer Michelle Douglas
Re: Do dogs like hugs? While I think it's important to help our pets be super tolerant I do find it fascinating learning about dog body language some of which is less obvious than others. Riley definitely has differen moods aswell, some days he can be a bit head shy and not enjoy strokes from above and other days he just wants as much attention as he can get from anyone and anywhere!! In an effort to improve his delivery too I'm trying to stroke him from his chest upwards so i avoid making him uncomortable and his head's always up. Is that futile or does it make sense?
Re: Do dogs like hugs? I think that they all vary , Sam adores hugs and cuddles , craves them, but my Tess who died last summer wasnt keen at all , loved to be stroked but not hugged , so we didnt
Re: Do dogs like hugs? I agree they do all vary - Rusty comes and sits and leans in for his cuddle, Barney will stand and wait to be fussed - before instantly spinning upside down for a tummy rub, he will tolerate a hug but isn't that keen
