A vet has warned how a ‘hug’ can make a dog feel, and it’s not necessarily what you would expect
A vet has warned that it could be a bad idea to ‘hug’ your dog, as it could have the opposite effect on them to what us humans feel.
There’s nothing nicer than coming home from a long day at work to your furry friend scurrying as fast as they can to the door to greet you.
Your natural reaction is usually to bend down and give them a big cuddle, and whilst it might look like they’re loving every second – it might not be what they’re really feeling.
Dog experts are now warning owners to find different ways of showing their love.
According to a vet who spoke to Psychology Today, a hug can actually make a dog feel quite anxious and trapped – this is because a dog’s primary defence is to run away.
Psychologist Stanley Coren explained: “Yes, your dog may leap into your lap and kiss your face, cuddle against your neck, and beg you to rub her belly.
“But that’s not ‘hugging.’
“In my experience, many dogs don’t enjoy having a human move one or two arms around their shoulders and squeeze.
“That’s the hug we are talking about.”
Behaviour Vets author Lauren Novack believes dogs who do enjoy hugs are a complete ‘exception’, reports Daily Paws.
She said: “When dogs don’t like something and politely ask for space over and over again to no avail, they’re likely to escalate their communication to growling or biting.
“I don’t want dogs to be stressed, and I don’t want humans to get bitten. For most dogs, hugs are stressful.”
Stanley previously analysed 250 photos of dogs being given hugs, and he found that in 80% of the images, the dogs showed signs of looking stressed.
And he noted that this can be indicated by a dog lowers their ears, closing their eyes, or turning away from the source of anxiety.
And the psychologist has now revealed some much better alternatives.
He said: “The clear recommendation to come out of this research is to save your hugs for your two-footed family members and lovers.
“It is clearly better from the dog’s point of view if you express your fondness for your pet with a pat, a kind word, and maybe a treat.”
And the last thing we want to do is upset our furry babies, so we’re definitely going to take this advice on board!
Vanna White’s Emotional Farewell to Pat Sajak on *Wheel of Fortune*
“I can’t believe that tomorrow is our last show together,” said Vanna, 67. “I don’t know how to put into words what these past 41 years have meant to me, but I’m going to try. Eight thousand episodes went by like that.”
The duo has been hosting America’s Game since 1982 when the show first aired in syndication. Throughout the years, they became one of television’s most iconic duos, capturing the hearts of millions of viewers.
“As the years have gone by, we’ve grown up on television, but we’ve also shared so much more behind the scenes,” reminisced Vanna, reflecting on the personal memories they’ve shared. “What an incredible and unforgettable journey we’ve had. And I’ve enjoyed every minute of it with you.”
With tears welling in her eyes, Vanna held back her emotions and continued, “You’re like a brother to me, and I consider you a true lifelong friend, who I will always adore. I love you, Pat.”
After the segment, Pat and Vanna embraced in a heartfelt hug on stage, symbolizing the bond they have built over the years.
Throughout their partnership, Pat led the contestants through the game, while Vanna became famous for gracefully turning the letters on the puzzle board. Together, they have appeared in over 8,000 episodes, creating countless unforgettable moments for fans around the world.
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