Owning a dog comes with all kinds of surprising benefits—studies show that dog walking correlates to increased happiness (both the dog’s and the owner’s) and that dogs rush to help their humans in times of distress. But perhaps the greatest benefit of all is the loving relationship you build with your pet. And now, we have even more reason to believe that this love is mutual.
Most dog owners have likely experienced your dog pawing at your legs. While you may brush off this act as a mere annoyance, it’s actually your pup’s way of trying to communicate with you. How do you tell what your dog is trying to say? It all depends on the context. Ahead, an expert explains exactly what your dog may be trying to tell you.
Meet Our Expert
Rebecca Forrest is an assistance dog trainer for The Dog Clinic.
They’re Showing Affection
If your dog puts his paw on you, it can be his way of saying “I love you.” We pet our pups to show our love and affection. Turns out they do the same. “By putting his paw on you whilst you are stroking him, he is further extending contact and reciprocating affection back,” says Rebecca Forrest, an assistance dog trainer, for The Dog Clinic.
They’re Anxious
While this act can be interpreted as an expression of love, your dog pawing at you can also be attributed to numerous other feelings, including anxiety. “Look at the rest of your dog’s body language,” Forrest advises. If you’re just cozied up on the couch or rubbing his tummy, chances are they’re just showing love in return. But if your pup is showing signs of anxiety, “such as lip smacking, yawning, and flat ears,” it could mean they’re feeling insecure and are looking for affection. Your dog may just be feeling a bit stressed out and want to be comforted. When your pup is feeling this way, take it as a sign to show Fido a little extra love.
They’re Hungry
Another reason could also be your dog saying they’re hungry. Signs that your dog is hungry may include circling, barking at, or nudging their food bowl, staring at and following you, licking and chewing objects, increased alertness, or whining. If they do any of these in conjunction with pawing at you or trying to get your attention in other ways, your dog may just be hungry.
Forrest advises that if continual pawing is related to food, it’s best not to respond. “If you allow your dog to decide when they get fed, they could become overweight which will impact their health,” Forrest says.
They Need Something
Like trying to tell you they’re hungry, your dog may want something else from you. When your dog puts their paws on you, they could be trying to tell you that they want to play, need to go potty, need a refill on water, or want a toy that is out of reach. To decide what they are trying to tell you, look at their other actions. Are they signaling to be let outside? Are they barking at a toy? Are they nudging their water or food bowl? Usually, you’ll be able to decode exactly what your pup is trying to tell you based on their behaviors.
Why does my dog paw at me when they sleep?
Dogs like to sleep close to their humans for a sense of comfort, protection, security, and warmth. Pawing at you while you sleep is a way for your dog to know you are close and also have their own independent space.
Knowing why your dog puts their paws on you can help you communicate better with your fur friend. Next time your dog puts their paw on you to say “I love you,” give them a good head scratch and show them some love back.
Read the original article on Southern Living