10/12/2024
We all know how to pat a dog....right❓ Pat, pat, rub, rub...right on top of the head.
What if they are giving signs they don't like it?
Would that make us stop or would we continue because WE like to pat our dogs?
Yup, we all know how, but do we know the signals shown when dogs are not appreciating it, or when it has gone on too long for their comfort?
So many dogs do not like being patted on the head.
We may have difficulty seeing they are uncomfortable because we are way up there ⬆️sometimes 4-5 feet or more above them, it can be tricky to see the changes in their posture and face....but when we do take notice and appreciate that dogs can consent and even take away that consent, there can be amazing changes.
Some anxious dogs will become LESS anxious.
Some dogs will seek out comfort WHEN they want and need it.
It can give some dogs MORE confidence around people because when someone asks we can say "no thanks, please no pats" or "sure, but not on the head".
If you are in doubt...look at an old video or two, they can be very enlightening.
Yep, this graphic is available abcdogsnz.com
