The Benefits of Human-Animal Touch

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Did you know that the touch between a human and a dog can have therapeutic benefits for both species?  It has been shown that, when humans pet a dog it can trigger the release of the bonding hormone oxytocin.   It actually can lower your heart rate and blood pressure.    Just sitting, spending time with and petting a dog, can have a tremendous calming effect on humans.

Many dogs enjoy the interaction as well.   Remember, there are some areas they prefer to be petted and some they’d like you to avoid.    For MANY dogs, there are areas they don’t particularly like being touched or petted; like ears, paws, end of tail, top of head, muzzle or belly.   If you don’t know the dog, do not pet them in these areas.    Most dogs prefer being rubbed on the the chest and shoulders or some the base of the neck or just behind the ears.   If you know your dog well, where they like to be petted varies, you will learn what your dog loves the most by watching his body language.

Touch is a very strong way of praising your dog, letting them know you are happy with them.   It is much more powerful than any verbal praise we give.    If you want to let your dog know you are happy with them, their behavior, etc. use your verbal praise but add in a nice scratch behind the ears as a bonus!