Do Dogs Like Being Hugged? Is It Safe to Hug Your Dog?

Dogs make loving companions who thrive on social connections, but they interpret physical affection differently compared to humans. While we often express love by hugging, dogs usually perceive such embraces differently, which can create anxiety instead of comfort.

Knowing whether dogs appreciate being hugged can enhance the relationship you share with your dog, keeping them happy and safe.

Do dogs like being hugged?

Generally, dogs dislike being hugged. Unlike people, dogs dont naturally embrace or cuddle each other, so the act of hugging feels unfamiliar and unnatural to them. To many dogs, a hug can feel like being physically trapped or restrained, which causes discomfort and may be perceived as threatening.

When you hug a dog, they might feel confined and unable to move freely, which could trigger their fight-or-flight instincts.

How do dogs experience hugs?

Instead of seeing a hug as a sign of affection, many dogs interpret it as a dominant or confining gesture. Some common signs of stress during hugging include the dog turning its head away, lip licking, yawning, flattening ears, or showing the whites of their eyes, a behavior often called
whale eye.


Well-trained dogs might tolerate hugs from people they trust, but tolerance doesnt necessarily mean they enjoy it. To avoid causing anxiety or defensive behavior, its important to respect your dogs personal space and signals.

Why do some dogs
hug
 people?

When dogs appear to "hug" by wrapping a front leg around their owner or other person, it usually isnt meant as human-style affection. Instead, this action often signals the dog is attempting to assert dominance or negotiate social rank, especially if it happens right after you try to hug them.

Is hugging your dog safe?

Hugs can pose risks, especially with children or unfamiliar dogs. The combination of close face-to-face contact and physical restraint may provoke stress, possibly resulting in snapping or biting even from typically gentle dogs.

Showing affection in ways dogs are naturally comfortable with is a safer approach.

Safer ways to show your dog affection

• Gently pet your dogs chest, shoulders, or under the chin, areas dogs usually find pleasant.
• Learn to recognize your dogs body language to gauge when they are comfortable.
• Teach children to approach dogs calmly and respectfully, avoiding hugs or physical restraint.
• Give treats, verbal praise, and playtime to create positive associations.

What research reveals about dogs and hugging

Studies through 2025 consistently find that most dogs show signs of anxiety when hugged. For instance, a 2016 research by Dr. Stanley Coren found that 81% of dogs displayed at least one stress signal in photos of dogs being hugged, whereas only a small number looked relaxed.

More recent 2024 studies analyzing social media videos reinforced these results, emphasizing the importance of honoring dogs preferences regarding physical touch.

Conclusion

While hugging is instinctive for many humans as a way to express love, the majority of dogs dont share this preference. Hugging can induce stress or trigger defensive reactions, making it unwise to force such contact. Instead, pet parents should explore other gentle and natural methods of showing affection that align with dogs communication styles and promote their health and happiness.

By observing and respecting your dog's unique signals and boundaries, you foster a relationship built on trust, safety, and joy.