When dogs are happy and want to show love, they might roll on their backs to ask for a belly rub. Dogs like belly rubs because they feel relaxed, act on instinct, want attention, or love you.
Just like humans, dogs are individuals and may express their interest in belly rubs differently, says Daniel Neale, an NYC-based canine behaviour consultant at Shelby Semel Dog Training in New York City. However, if your dog shows you their stomach, looks happy, or wants to play, they likely want belly rubs!
Keep reading to find out why dogs like belly rubs, how to tell if your dog wants one, how to give the best belly rub, and other fun ways to bond with your pup!
4 Reasons Why Dogs Like Their Bellies Rubbed
Ever wonder why your dog loves belly rubs and tickles so much? Our experts outline four reasons belly rubs make your pup feel happy, relaxed, and loved.
1. It feels good and helps them relax
Dogs love belly rubs because they feel as good as scratching an itch!
Belly rubs are like a gentle massage, says Elliot Rosenberg (CDPT), a master dog trainer and behaviourist atf K9 Mania Dog Training.
When you rub their tummy, Neale says it can release endorphins, which make dogs feel happy and calm.
2. It shows trust and builds a stronger bond
When a dog rolls on their back and shows you their belly, Neale says they trust you.
Rubbing their belly helps build a stronger bond between you and your dog.
3. It gives them attention and affection
Dogs love attention and affection from their favourite people. Neale says belly rubs are a way to show affection that makes dogs feel loved.
Some dogs like belly rubs and praise so much, they might even prefer it over food!
4. It reminds them of being puppies
Tummy rubs can remind dogs of being groomed by their mum as puppies.
Neale says this brings back comforting memories of being cared for, making them feel secure even as adults.
Does My Dog Want Belly Rubs?
To know if your dog wants a belly rub, watch their body language closely. Neale says here’s what to look for:
- Exposing their belly. If your dog rolls over on their back and shows their belly, he says it usually means they trust you and might want a belly rub. But sometimes, this can also mean they’re scared or uncomfortable, so check their other signs.
- Relaxed body posture. A relaxed dog will have a loose body, a wagging tail, and soft eyes. This means they’re calm and probably ready for a belly rub!
- Paw movements. Neale says some dogs will lightly paw at you or nudge your hand to ask for attention, including tummy rubs.
- Playful or content behaviours. If your dog is wagging their tail, rolling around playfully, or staring at you, Neil says they’re likely in the mood for a belly rubs.
- Resting their head on the ground. If your dog rests their head on the ground while showing their belly and makes eye contact, it’s a sign they’re calm and want a belly rub.
Do Some Dog Breeds Like Belly Rubs More Than Others?
While the link between dog breed and behaviour is unclear, Neale says there is research about how breed-specific traits might correlate with a dog’s affection-seeking behaviours.
Breeds known for being social and loving, and who might enjoy belly rubs more, include:
- Golden Retrievers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Bichons Frisés
- Beagles
But remember, Rosenberg says every dog is different, and their love for belly rubs can vary, no matter their breed.
When Do Dogs Not Want Belly Rubs?
Just like dogs show us when they want tummy rubs, they also show us when they don’t. Janet Cutler, a dog behaviourist and owner of Canada-based Landmark Behaviour, says signs that a dog doesn’t want belly rubs include:
- rolling over but looking stiff
- having a tense or stiff body
- licking their lips
- showing the whites of their eyes (called ‘whale eye’)
- wagging their tail in a way that looks stressed or scared
Even though we love giving our dogs attention, it’s important to respect their feelings and not force any pets if they don’t want them.
iStock/AlexanderFord
How to Give the Perfect Belly Rub
Want to become your dog’s personal pro-belly rubber? Cutler shares these tips on how to give the perfect belly rub:
- Check if your dog enjoys belly rubs. (This is the most important part!) First, make sure your dog enjoys tummy rubs. Look for signs that they’re relaxed and not uncomfortable.
- Rub their belly briefly and watch their reaction. Rub their belly for a short time, then see how they respond. Cutler says if they like it, they might nudge you or move to a new spot with their belly up, asking for more.
- Stop and change to a different strategy. If your dog seems stiff or unsure, stop and try a different way to interact. They might not want a tummy rub right now for various reasons, like if they’re in pain or something else is bothering them.
How Do Belly Rubs Make the Bond With Your Dog Better?
Spending time doing things you and your dog both enjoy, like tummy rubs, can help you get closer.
Cutler says some dogs love this attention, which helps strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
What Other Ways Can You Show Your Dog Love?
If your dog isn’t a fan of belly rubs, don’t worry! There are plenty of other fun ways to show them you love them. Cutler says these include:
- Petting other spots. Some dogs like being petted on the head or back. Cutler says to watch your dog’s body language to see what they enjoy. Pause now and then to see if they want more attention.
- Grooming. Brushing your dog is another great way to spend time together. Plus, it keeps their coat clean and healthy.
- Playing. Cutler says playing games like fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek gives your dog exercise and makes your bond stronger. Find games that match your dog’s personality.
- Training. Teaching your dog new tricks or doing training exercises keeps them mentally sharp and helps build your bond. Cutler notes that clicker training can be fun, and it can help you learn new things together.
