A video of a small dog pawing at its owner while being petted has gone viral on social media, with some people claiming it's a sign of dominance – but is there another reason?
Dog owners are often convinced they have a perfect understanding of their pets, yet it's not uncommon to misread the unique ways dogs communicate. Famed for their unwavering loyalty, abundant affection, and natural protective instincts, dogs are treasured additions to many families.
The UK is home to around 13 million dogs, according to a study published in Nature Scientific Reports, proving the nation's love affair with these faithful companions. A great swath of dog owners is keen on gaining insights into their furry friends' thoughts and emotions.
Over on social media the hashtag “dog body language” gets used regularly by both dog fans and professionals. A particular clip on Instagram has struck a chord with many viewers, depicting a petite pooch tapping its owner during a cuddle session.
The caption on the video reads: “Did you know that if your dog paws you while petting them, that's their way of petting you back. Laying their paw on you is a sign that they love you and trust you.”
Users in the comments section discussed their thoughts and theories on what this behaviour really means.
One Instagram user commented: “Yes, it means please don't stop, I like when you pet me”. Another remarked: “So sweet! I too always thought it's their way of telling us that they like it and not to stop!”
A third person suggested: “it's a sign of dominance over you”, while another shared a personal story: “I love when [my] Bella does that to me. Favourite moment of us together I will cherish forever”.
There's some truth to the idea that when a dog paws you, it's a sign of affection, but there could be more your pet is trying to communicate. PetMD explains that dogs use their paws in a variety of behaviors such as tapping, patting, pouncing, pushing, and more.
This instinctive, natural behavior starts when they're puppies – pawing at their mothers for milk – and it aids in their communication. They quickly realize that if they want something, pawing can help them get it because their caregivers usually respond to this action.
PetMD suggests that when dogs paw you, they might be seeking your attention. It explains: “You may have heard the phrase ‘demand behaviour'. It's a dated term describing a dog that uses behaviours like pawing to get something.
“The current theory is that a dog uses pawing to communicate an unmet need. People typically reinforce this behaviour by instantly providing the wanted outcome for their dog.”
However, it's crucial to understand that not all pawing is a request for attention, so it's important to pay attention to what else your dog may be doing.
Observing their other actions and behaviors can help determine if they are stressed, need to go outside, are hungry, nervous, or more. Experts also agree that pawing is one way dogs express their love.
PetMD elaborates: “A paw resting on your arm while you are petting them communicates that they are experiencing love. Because you are providing this reaction, you become associated with your pup's positive feelings.”
