HomeArt of LivingDogs Like Belly Rubs

Dogs Like Belly Rubs

 

One of the best parts of having a dog is petting your dog. You both get joy from sharing the bond of all that attention. And when your pet rolls over on its back, dogs sure do seem to like belly rubs.

Researchers and dog behaviorists have several theories about why dogs like having their bellies scratched. It feels good. It shows they trust you. And they just can’t do it themselves.

 

 

It’s a Spot They Can’t Reach
When dogs roll over on their backs, they could be asking for a belly rub or they could be doing it as a sign of submission. The trick is knowing the difference, according to certified dog trainer and behaviorist Susie Aga of Atlanta Dog Trainer.
Aga thinks dogs like belly rubs because it’s a spot they can’t reach.
Petting Feels Good
The act of being touched or petted feels good to a dog. Just like people like to be touched by those they love, animals crave physical contact from members of their pack.
Submissive Behavior vs. Wanting a Belly Rub
Dogs also expose their bellies as a sign of submission, making themselves vulnerable to show that they’re not a threat.

In a submissive dog, you might notice the ears are back, their eyes are squinty or very wide open and averted from your gaze. They might be yawning or have their lips pulled back in a submissive grin.

If you see any of those signs, leave the dog alone. You’ll only stress them out more.

What Science Says About Submission and Playfulness
Researchers concluded that none of the rollovers were signs of submission, but were used primarily as either offensive or defensive tactical maneuvers during play. All the dogs used in the study were friendly and used to playing, so their rollovers were used to block playful bites and tackles or to get into better positions to wrestle or instigate play.

What If My Dog Doesn’t Like Belly Rubs?
Always let the dog make the decision about a belly rub. If they come close to you and flip over, relaxed, that means they are ready for some petting.

Instead, find that spot they really love — maybe behind the ears or at the base of the tail — and watch everyone’s stress levels drop.

- A word from our sponsors -

spot_img

Most Popular

More from Author

Exploring the Legacy of Captain James Cook in ‘The Wide Wide Sea’

Introduction to Captain James Cook's Final Voyage In Hampton Sides' captivating book,...

Zhu Lin: The Queen of Drama Revealed in New Book

Introduction to Zhu Lin's Life A new book titled Zhu Lin, the Queen...

The National Book Critics Circle Awards: A Milestone with the First-Ever Nonfiction Longlist

The NBCC Celebrates 50 Years The National Book Critics Circle (NBCC) is...

National Book Critics Circle Awards: Celebrating the First-Ever Autobiography Longlist

Introduction to the National Book Critics Circle Awards The National Book Critics...

- A word from our sponsors -

spot_img

Read Now

Exploring the Idiosyncratic Characters in Flannery O’Connor’s Stories

Introduction to Flannery O'Connor's Unique Narratives Flannery O'Connor, a notable Southern writer, weaves expansive short stories featuring characters whose idiosyncratic behaviors reflect a deep sense of otherness. Her talent lies in creating memorable tales that not only entertain but also provoke thought. Among her works, the most recognized...

Exploring Themes of Family and Femininity in Tara Isabel Zambrano’s ‘Ruined a Little When We Are Born’

Introduction to Zambrano’s Work Tara Isabel Zambrano’s collection, Ruined a Little When We Are Born, is a compelling compendium of human experiences, blending elements of flash fiction and traditional storytelling. This slim volume encompasses over three dozen stories that resonate deeply with readers. Zambrano navigates themes of family, femininity,...

Hwang Seok-Yeong: A Testament to Youthful Vigor in Literature

The Ageless Spirit of Hwang Seok-Yeong Veteran South Korean novelist Hwang Seok-Yeong has captured the hearts of readers both young and old with his profound storytelling that resonates deeply with modern stresses. Despite being in his 70s when he authored his acclaimed novel, At Dusk, Hwang’s writing reflects...

Barack Obama’s 2024 Annual Reading List: A Journey Through Literature

Introduction to Obama's Reading List On December 20, former President Barack Obama shared his 2024 annual reading list on Instagram. This year’s selection includes ten thought-provoking titles, comprising both fiction and non-fiction. Topics range from love and art to economic growth and mental health issues, showcasing the breadth...

Unveiling Ronald Reagan: A Definitive Biography by Max Boot

Introduction to 'Reagan: His Life and Legend' In 2024, Max Boot's monumental biography, 'Reagan: His Life and Legend,' has emerged as an instant New York Times bestseller, capturing the attention of literary critics across the nation. This compelling work has not only earned a spot among the 50...

Exploring the Legacy of Captain James Cook in ‘The Wide Wide Sea’

Introduction to Captain James Cook's Final Voyage In Hampton Sides' captivating book, 'The Wide Wide Sea,' readers are immersed in the enthralling account of Captain James Cook's third and final voyage. This journey, which culminated in Cook's tragic death in Hawaii, serves as a reminder of the complex...

Zhu Lin: The Queen of Drama Revealed in New Book

Introduction to Zhu Lin's Life A new book titled Zhu Lin, the Queen of Drama has been launched, narrating the inspiring journey of a remarkable figure in Chinese theater. Authored by Zhao Hongfan, this work intricately weaves the life of Zhu Lin, often revered as the "queen of Chinese drama,"...

The National Book Critics Circle Awards: A Milestone with the First-Ever Nonfiction Longlist

The NBCC Celebrates 50 Years The National Book Critics Circle (NBCC) is marking a significant occasion with the announcement of its first-ever longlist for the nonfiction genre, celebrating its 50th anniversary. The longlist, which was released on December 18, highlights the organization's commitment to honoring exceptional writing in...

National Book Critics Circle Awards: Celebrating the First-Ever Autobiography Longlist

Introduction to the National Book Critics Circle Awards The National Book Critics Circle (NBCC) Awards, renowned for their distinction in literary recognition, have embarked on a significant milestone for 2024. In honor of their 50th anniversary, the NBCC has announced its inaugural longlist for the category of autobiography,...

Exploring the National Book Critics Circle Awards: A First-Ever Biography Longlist

Introduction to the NBCC Awards The National Book Critics Circle (NBCC) Awards are a prestigious event in the literary world, celebrating outstanding writing and fostering a national conversation about literature. This year marks a significant milestone as the NBCC has announced its first-ever longlist for the genre of...

British Library Expands Chinese Web Novels Collection

Introduction of New Titles On November 21, the British Library took a significant step in enhancing its collections by adding ten printed copies of popular Chinese web novels, which were originally published online. Among the notable titles included are "Lord of the Mysteries," "Soul Land," and "Joy of...

Shanghai Online Literature Week: A Milestone for Global Literary Exchange

Introduction to Shanghai Online Literature Week The third Shanghai International Online Literature Week, held from December 16 to 18, showcased significant advancements in the online literature genre. The event brought together writers and industry professionals from 16 countries, marking a pivotal moment for the dissemination of Chinese online...