Belly Rubs Explained: Why Dogs Adore Them
When you play with your dog, there is one action that they seem to truly love more than anything else. That is the famous belly rub. Most dogs go crazy for a belly rub, and most owners view it as one of the best things they can do for their dog.
So, why is this the case? Why do dogs like belly rubs? Keep reading to uncover some of the reasoning behind belly rubs for dogs.
Why Do Dogs Show Their Belly?
The first thing you will see most dogs do as they ask for a belly rub is roll over onto their backs and show their belly. However, this isn’t the only reason dogs do this behavior.
For one, rolling onto their backs is a sign of submission in dogs. It is a way to show another dog that they present no threat to them and that they are willing to let that other dog take charge. This is an action that can be done out of fear, which is often seen in nervous or anxious dogs. It can also be done out of a deep level of trust, which is seen in dogs that really know and trust their owners.
A dog may also roll onto their back and show their belly for practical reasons. This position allows the heat in a dog’s belly and paws to escape into the air. So, it is effectively a way for your dog to cool down on a hot day.
Finally, your dog could be in pain. A leg injury may leave them lying on their back to avoid their leg. Look to see if they are showing other signs of an injury, like a leg limp.
Related: When Old Dogs Stop Eating: Understanding the Reasons and Taking Action
Does Your Dog Want a Belly Rub?
Since there are multiple different reasons why a dog may roll onto their back and show their belly, this position doesn’t always indicate that they want a belly rub. There are plenty of times when giving them a belly rub like this isn’t what they want and will actually upset them rather than make them happy. Like yawns, there is a lot of versatility behind belly rubs.
For example, giving them a belly rub while they are nervously presenting their belly in submission isn’t a good idea. This throws them off and tries to force them to do something enjoyable when they are actually in an anxious place mentally. Similarly, giving a belly rub while they are trying to cool down throws them off as well. This prevents them from cooling off as effectively as they could.
So, you want to look for indications that your dog wants a belly rub. These include:
- Moving physically closer to you and then turning onto their back
- An appearance of relaxation rather than anxiousness
- A relaxed or wagging tail
- An open mouth and the appearance of a smile
- Open eyes
Want to help your clients find solutions to their dogs’ anxiety issues? Find out how you can become a veterinary partner with Rooted Owl.
Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs?
While many determining factors go into whether a dog will enjoy a belly rub, if they are in the mood for one, they will adore it. So, why is this the case?
Well, there are a few things that make belly rubs enjoyable. The feeling of rubbing or scratching releases some oxytocin, a hormone that produces good feelings. In addition, dogs, as incredibly social pack animals, are hard-wired to enjoy social interactions. So, they like that someone is paying attention to them while they rub their belly.
However, the biggest reason dogs like belly rubs is that belly rubs just feel good. You probably like plenty of things just because they feel good, so why shouldn’t the same be true for your dog?
Why Dogs Kick During Belly Rubs
If you’ve ever given your dog a belly rub and been surprised when they suddenly start kicking, you aren’t alone. This is a common reaction to belly rubs for many dogs.
The reason these kicks occur boils down to the dog scratch reflex. This is an involuntary reaction that many dogs exhibit when they are scratched on their belly. The reaction is entirely natural and is something your dog can’t control. It isn’t a sign of anything bad and, in fact, is an indication that their nervous system is operating properly.
So, if your dog starts kicking when you rub their belly, don’t worry about it. It doesn’t mean that they want you to stop.
Related: Sleep Twitches: Why Dogs Move at Night
Giving Your Dog the Best Belly Rubs
If you want to give your dog the best belly rubs possible, you can follow a few simple steps. These will ensure your dog wants a belly rub and that they enjoy it the entire time.
To give a good belly rub:
- Make sure they want a belly rub. Look for the signs that they want a belly rub. Never force them onto their belly and start giving one, as this will be uncomfortable for them.
- Approach your dog’s height. Crouch down so you are on the same level as your dog. This allows you to connect with them on a deeper level.
- Start the belly rub. Get the belly rub going by rubbing their belly in a circle. After a few moments, stop.
- See if they enjoy it. At this point, you should take a moment to see if your dog looks like they are enjoying the belly rub. If they look happy and relaxed, you can keep going. If they look anxious or start whining, then you should stop.
- Keep going, or stop. If your dog is enjoying itself, you can keep rubbing their belly for as long as you want. Eventually, one of you will get tired, so make sure you still look for the signs that indicate they are done.
Is your dog unable to relax for a belly rub? Try some calming hemp oil to see if it will help them overcome their issues.
Calming Your Dog Before Time Together
If your dog always seems like they are on edge, it can be hard to get them to calm down for a belly rub. However, with a holistic approach from Rooted Owl, you may find some serenity. Our calming hemp oil utilizes THC and other organic ingredients to lull your dog into comfort. Formulated by animal health experts and made with USDA-certified organic ingredients, you can trust Rooted Owl to provide the best products for your pup.
The Details Behind Belly Rubs for Dogs
Dogs like belly rubs because they feel good for them. However, they only like them when they are ready for them. By looking for the signs that your dog wants a belly rub and continuing to watch out for them while giving your dog a belly rub, you can make them even happier than before.
Related: Reluctant Rover: When Your Dog Won't Walk