How to Pet a Dog: Benefits of Petting a Dog

Petting is beneficial for dogs as well as the humans performing the act.

1. 1. May reduce cortisol: Having a dog can be a therapeutic experience. Just a few minutes of petting a dog may reduce the cortisol levels (also known as the stress hormone) in your body, which is part of what makes dogs such excellent emotional support companions. They may also help lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and alleviate muscle tension.
2. 2. Relieves stress in dogs: Petting a friendly dog can soothe them and potentially increase their affinity for you. (However, avoid petting anxious dogs because they can react aggressively to unwanted touching.). If a dog initiates contact with you, it is a sign they may find your touch calming or want attention.
3. 3. Strengthens your bond: Petting a dog releases the oxytocin hormone in human beings, which increases your affinity for your pet. Strong bonds with your beloved pets can help establish a rapport, making routines and training easier in the future. It can also increase the pet owner’s overall happiness and quality of life, easing symptoms of loneliness or depression.

Whether you’ve just gotten a new dog or want to pet someone else’s pooch at the dog park, here is how to pet a dog the right way:

1. 1. Approach with caution. Before petting an unfamiliar dog, ask the owner for permission first. The dog may have aggressive tendencies or not enjoy pettings from strangers. If the dog has no owner, do not approach it. Watch the dog’s body language for any signs that indicate aggression, anxiety, or fear. Let the dog approach you and initiate contact first rather than approaching the dog first. This rule also applies to your own pooch, as surprising a resting or otherwise occupied dog may scare them and cause them to bite.
2. 2. Get down on their level. The dog will feel more comfortable with you if you squat down to meet them at eye level (but avoid making prolonged eye contact, which they can view as a threat). Get low and stick out your fist to start the interaction, which will allow the dog to sniff you. Use a closed hand rather than an open hand, because the dog may confuse your fingers for treats.
3. 3. Pick a neutral area. The best place to pet a dog for the first time is a neutral area on its body: The chest or shoulders are good places to start. Do not pet the top of a dog’s head immediately. Some dogs may cower or become fearful if you reach or bend over them, so it’s always best to pet a dog underhand on their chest or from the side, at their shoulders first.
4. 4. Pet other areas. If the dog likes getting petted in the neutral areas (evidenced by a wagging tail or nuzzles), move your hands to more sensitive areas. Try petting the dog at the base of the ears, the back of the neck, or the base of the tail. A comfortable dog may flop onto its back. However, another reason a dog shows its belly may be out of submission, due to anxiety. Exercise caution when petting a dog’s belly. Continue to monitor the dog’s reactions and body language for signs of discomfort. Exercise caution when petting vulnerable areas, like a dog’s paws, legs, or footpads.
5. 5. Pet along the grain. Pet a dog’s fur in the same direction that it grows. While some longer-haired dogs may enjoy getting their fur ruffled, it might be uncomfortable for short-haired dogs. Stroke your dog’s fur gently in the right direction. You may also apply a light massage to your dog’s face and back.

Do not pet a dog if it shows signs of aggression or fear. Aggressive dogs will growl, bark, or snarl, or show their teeth when they want to be left alone. Signs of fear include pinning their ears back, lip licking, or tucking their tails between their legs. Pay attention to any changes in dog behavior, and avoid sudden movements. Back away if the dog reacts fearfully or aggressively when you initiate contact.

Avoid kneeling near an aggressive or anxious dog, and keep your fingers away from their mouths or face. If a dog wags its tail or licks your hand, it’s a sign they are enjoying the interaction, but continue to pay attention to their behavior if you decide to initiate physical contact.

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