- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Does your dog nudge your hand or plop into your lap to ask for attention? Then they probably love a good pet. But have you ever wondered why they enjoy it so much?
Petting isn’t just about feeling good—it’s also a way for dogs to bond with their humans and ease their stress. Most dogs are naturally social and seek out physical touch as part of their connection with people and other animals. That’s why a scratch behind the ears or a cuddle session can be just as rewarding for them as it is for you.
But not all petting is created equal! Some dogs have preferences when it comes to how and where they like to be touched, whether it’s ear scratches or belly rubs.
To answer our questions about petting dogs, we spoke with Allie Bender, founder, author, and behavior consultant at Pet Harmony Animal Behavior and Training, and Paige Gordon, Certified Professional Dog Trainer with SpiritDog Training.
Reasons Dogs Like Being Petted
Petting can trigger biological, social, and emotional responses in dogs that make the experience extra rewarding. Here are some of the biggest reasons dogs seek out physical touch from you.
It feels good on their skin
Studies suggest that gently stroking hairy skin can be reinforcing and comforting. Dogs have sensitive hair follicles that respond to touch, which can make petting feel like a soothing sensation.
They learn to love it as puppies
From the moment they’re born, puppies experience touch, whether from their mother’s licking, their littermates snuggling, or humans handling them.
“So many puppies are born around humans, and they learn from a very young age that they like petting,” says Bender. “Petting is a learned behavior for dogs.”
Over time, puppies might associate petting with comfort, warmth, and attention, reinforcing their enjoyment of being touched as they grow.
It strengthens their bond with you
Beyond physical contact, touching your dog is also a way for them to emotionally connect with their humans.
“Studies have shown that our dogs’ brains will even release oxytocin, the ‘love hormone,’ when we are petting them,” says Gordon. “Meaning our dogs—and our relationship with them—can benefit from pets.”
It helps them feel safe and calm
Petting and human touch can also lower a dog’s cortisol levels, which is known as the “stress hormone.” That’s why your dog might turn to you for security and comfort if they’re feeling a little anxious.
It might remind them of grooming
In the wild, wolves and other social animals groom each other to maintain hygiene and strengthen social bonds. While you’re not licking your dog like their mother or another dog would, the rhythmic motion of petting can mimic grooming behaviors, says Gordon.
Infographic by Rover
Why Does It Feel Good To Pet a Dog?
Did you know that patting your dog can be beneficial for you, too? Studies have shown that interacting with dogs can lower blood pressure and reduce stress. Petting a dog can also trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters linked to happiness and relaxation. This is one of the reasons why service dogs are so effective at providing emotional support.
But why do humans love petting dogs so much? Beyond the physical benefits, Bender there’s an emotional and social component at play.
“Both dogs and humans are social species. So when humans pet dogs, we arrive at the same mental and emotional benefit from interacting and connecting with another individual,” she says.
The rhythmic motion of petting is also naturally soothing, similar to the way some people find comfort in massages.
Why Does My Dog Like Aggressive Petting?
Ever wondered why your dog loves vigorous head rubs? Some dogs love a gentle pet, but others seem to prefer more intense forms of petting, like thumping pats on their sides or butts. This type of “aggressive petting” might look over-the-top to us, but for dogs, a strong touch may feel more engaging, playful, or comforting.
How to tell if your dog likes strong petting
“Just like people, dogs might have personal preferences about how they like to be pet,” says Gordon.
Not all dogs enjoy heavy-handed petting, so it’s important to watch their body language. Here are some signs that your dog is into it:
- Leaning into the pressure rather than pulling away
- Wagging their tail in a loose, happy manner
- A relaxed or playful expression (open mouth, soft eyes, maybe even a happy vocalization)
- Nudging your hand or positioning their body for more
For some dogs, strong petting may also be physically soothing.
“There’s some physical elements of it as well,” says Bender. “For some people, the deep pressure from a weighted blanket is beneficial. That might be true for dogs, too, especially when you think about the benefits of Thunder Shirts and TTouch wraps.”
Infographic by Rover
Do Dogs Get Tired of Being Petted?
Yes, even the most affectionate dogs can get tired of being touched! It’s important to pay attention to their cues and respect when they’ve had enough.
Here are some signs your dog might want you to stop petting them:
- Walking away or turning their head
- Becoming tense
- Moving your hand away with their paw or nose
- Air snapping or lightly mouthing your hand
- Showing signs of irritation like growling or huffing
“A lot of times, it can be more subtle,” adds Bender. “It could be lower-level stress signals like a lip lick, a stress yawn, or a head turn.”
If your dog displays any of these signs, it’s best to stop touching them and give them space. Dogs deserve to have their boundaries respected, too.
