Your pet dog is one of the most precious you have. With just a smile and cuddle, they are able to lift your troubles and sadness away. For that matter, it is just natural to give it back to them. One way is petting them. Additional trivia about petting is that it not only makes your dog happy but also releases your stress and soothing, so it is a win for both of you.

It may seem a simple task, but doing it right will be great and avoid conflicts. 

1. Preparation

Dogs are interactive by nature and would like to be touched, but that does not mean it is all the time. So the best way to know is to have them initiate. It is easy to know right away. They will just come to you with a relaxed posture and is visible through their ears and tails. They will also sniff you. The biggest sign would be nuzzling you. With that, you can start petting them on the head then to other parts of their body they are comfortable with.

2. Right Timing

It is easy to say when you know your dog for long. But what if they are new or a puppy or if they someone else’s? Well, it is the same as above. Make sure that they are the one who is initiating the contact and not you. That way, you will learn if they are friendly for some dogs to tend to be aggressive to others and might harm you. If in case they are friendly, go for it. If not, you will have to be aware of them.

3. Favorite Spot

Every dog is different when it comes to their favorite spot. Some would be okay with just their head, shoulder, or neck. But you will know that it is different once they lie down and show their belly. This means they want it in a more personal way. Dogs indeed love their belly rubs, but there are also other spots like their chest. You will know it with their leg moving or kicking. It is a sign and a reflex. 

4. Alone Time

It is mentioned earlier that you are not the one who will initiate the petting. Even though they are friendly, just like us humans, they would want to be left alone. Also, be aware of dogs that are not your own. You do not know their nature. You will have to stay away from those who are caged or chained. There are also dogs that are anxious. This is especially for dogs from shelters with a history of abuse. So if you are planning to adopt a dog like that, do not worry for they will come around. Just let them know you care and they will be able to feel it and approach you in no time. This is the same for other dogs. Dogs can actually feel and have a good perspective when it comes to humans. You will just have to show it.