🐕 Why We Don’t Pat Dogs on the Head
Many of us were taught to pat dogs on the head, but for lots of dogs, a hand coming down over them can feel uncomfortable or even scary.
🙅♂️ Why Reaching Over a Dog’s Head Can Feel Bad to Them
It can feel threatening
• Dogs talk with body language
• A hand coming down over them feels big and looming
• In dog-to-dog language, leaning over another dog can feel bossy or intimidating
They can’t see the hand properly
• Dogs don’t see well right above their head
• Sudden touches can make them jump or freeze
It removes their choice
• Head pats happen to them, not with them
• Choice helps dogs feel safe — just like people
Some dogs are sensitive around their head and neck
• It can be uncomfortable
• Many dogs simply prefer other places to be touched
✅ What To Do Instead
After checking the dog looks relaxed and comfortable:
• Turn your body slightly sideways
• Offer your hand low and let them come to you
• Move slowly and quietly
• Stroke under the chin, chest, or along the side of the neck
• Stop often so the dog can choose to continue or move away
Under-the-chin greetings feel safer and friendlier to most dogs
It’s our way of saying:
“I see you, I respect you, and you can choose.”
🧠 Easy way to remember it
Over the head = too much, too fast
Under the chin = calm, kind, and safe
🧡 Why this matters
When we greet dogs in a gentle way that lets them choose, they feel safe and understood.
Safe dogs relax, trust, and enjoy time with us much more.
Little changes in how we interact make a huge difference in confidence and comfort.
