Petting the dog is normal but, even if he is man’s best friend, many times our intentions can be misunderstood. There are several things we take for granted in living with our dogs. So, today we are going to tell you about the 6 things to know before petting a dog.
1.- Give him caresses that don’t seem like threats
Dogs are very good at interpreting body language, and for this you have to take into account some actions that could be perceived by them as aggression. Learn to pet your dog without them identifying you as a threat.
For example, don’t catch them off guard, especially when it’s aroused, or even stroke them by suddenly putting your hand on their head, as it may think you want to hit them, and it will react by becoming fearful or aggressive.
Instead, you can put your hand close to their face, and invite them to come towards you. So you will avoid discomfort and jolts.
2.- Never touch a dog that is aggressive
No matter how well trained it is, if the dog growls, is tense or ready to attack, you must not touch him; no matter if it is your dog, the body language of dogs is very clear, so better keep away and be very careful; this behavior can be a reaction to some wound on the body, to a fracture or internal bleeding, or something that causes pain.
3.- Lean down a little when it’s shy
If, after scolding them, your dog appears shy or frightened, and you want to make peace with them, you can kneel down and wait for them to approach; if the gesture has no effect, and the dog continues to be frightened, avoid looking at them, as your gaze may appear threatening. Try to call them and bring your hand closer, whispering a few sweet words.
This is always and only when you know the dog you are dealing with, since otherwise, in this position you will be more vulnerable and it will be difficult to avoid an attack.
4.- Wash your hands before touching your dog
While our dog stays safe in the house, we go everywhere, and many times we come into contact with different substances, which could be harmful to them. There are many diseases that dogs contract through contact, so if you have stroked a dog that had some unrecognizable disease, and when you get home you touch your dog, it is very easy for you to transfer it to them; therefore, it is best to wash your hands as soon as you enter the house, before saying goodbye to your dog. Washing your hands several times a day might seem like an exaggeration, but it will definitely save your friend’s health problems.
5.- Keep in mind what they like
After spending some time with your dog, you will be able to understand what types of caresses it likes and where it prefers to receive them. So, pay attention to body language, as some dogs like strong strokes, while others shy away from them; still others are happy with neck and leg massages, others will growl if you approach that area; so always observe if the muscles are relaxed and if the dog wags his tail: in this case, the dog is happy.
6.- Pay attention to the belly
It is customary to think that when a dog gets on his stomach, it is because it is looking for caresses; instead, this attitude actually means that your dog considers you the boss, the master, and perceives you as a threat, or is afraid and tries to calm you down. Putting on their stomach is a sign of submission, which the dog shows by showing their most vulnerable area.
However, there are also dogs that appreciate belly strokes. Therefore, take into consideration what is recommended in point 5!
