Does Hugging Your Dog Stress Him Out?

Does Hugging Your Dog Stress Him Out?

Back in 2016, psychologist Stanley Coren, a specialist in dog psyches, published an article with a headline that grabbed everyone’s attention: Dogs hate hugs. Coren’s findings were based on analyzing hundreds of internet photos of people hugging their dogs. He noted that in the vast majority of these "affectionate" moments, the dogs were actually showing clear signs of distress. When a dog is hugged, their stress levels can rise—sometimes even to "bite level"—because they feel trapped.

Know the "No": Signs of Stress

If you aren't sure how your dog feels about a squeeze, look for these subtle "I'm uncomfortable" signals:

• Whale Eye: Showing the whites of their eyes.
• Averted Gaze: Turning the head away from you.
• Lip-Licking: Flicking the tongue when no food is around.
• Pinned Ears: Pulling the ears back against the head.

The Adaptability Factor

While Coren’s study highlighted the potential for stress, it doesn’t mean every hug is a "no-go." Dogs are remarkably adaptable beings. We do lots of things our dogs might find weird or stressful, but because they are so attuned to us, they learn to handle life in a human world.

In fact, many responsible breeders make it a point to thoroughly socialize their puppies before they head to their forever homes. They often recruit "puppy huggers"—including children—to meet the pups. This exposure helps puppies learn to adapt to all kinds of human handling, turning a potentially stressful event into a normal part of life.

Pro-Tip: The 5-Second Consent Test

Not sure if your dog is "tolerating" or "enjoying" a hug? Try the 5-second rule: Hug for five seconds, then let go,

If they stay or nudge for more: They’re into it!

If they shake off or walk away: They’ve had their fill for now.

Hugging vs. Cuddling

While dogs may not naturally enjoy being "restrained" the way humans do, most tolerate it just fine—and some truly love it.

Take Torque, for example. He actually has a "hug" behavior! When Hope puts her arms out, he dashes over and puts his front legs around her neck. On the flip side, Booker is okay with a hug but doesn't really seek it out. Instead of forcing it, we find other ways to show him love. He absolutely adores ear rubs, so he gets plenty of those instead.

Interestingly, our dogs don’t seem to equate "hugging" with "cuddling." In the evenings, they all want to be "in touch." Whether they are leaning against us on the couch or acting as "bed-hogs" at night, that’s their version of a hug.

The Verdict

Sometimes we all have to do things we don’t love—like waiting in line at the DMV or doing the dishes. Dogs have their own "chores," too, like baths and nail trims. But when it comes to affection, as long as it works for both of you, that’s the only opinion that counts.