Scientist Says Dogs Hate Hugs. Another Says He’s Wrong. Here’s Why.

Dogs are so adorable that it’s difficult to resist hugging and kissing them. We want to show them as much love as possible because they deserve it. However, most people have probably come across a study or article telling them to stop hugging their dog. A scientist has made it clear that dogs don’t like hugs, but most dog lovers would disagree. We know that our furry friends love cuddles, so could this claim be false? Image: Svenska Mässan Flickr What is the Claim? Stanley Coren, Ph.D., posted an article called “The Data Says ‘Don’t Hug the Dog!’”. The main conclusion drawn from this article is that hugs should only be for other humans. He believes that praise, petting, and treats are the proper ways to show dogs affection instead. After posting this information, many people became upset. They tried to defend their reasons for hugging and kissing their dogs. However, let’s take a look at his specific points before we get into what’s right or wrong. In his article, he claims the following things: Hugs Make Dogs Feel Trapped Dogs are cursorial animals, which means they are adapted specifically to run. When they get stressed, their first instinct is to run, not bite. But when they’re ...