Belly Rubs Anyone? Why Do Dogs Need Belly Rubs?

A man’s bond with a dog is one of the strongest between humans and animals. It has a very long history. Ever since, the bond has been robust. Even today, dogs are considered one of the most trusted companions. Over all these years, humans and dogs have increased the effort to build a stronger relationship. It has now become an inseparable bond and a foundation of trust. 

The connection you build with a dog is so strong, whether it is the pet you have had for ten years or whether it is a puppy you just met. The ability to understand each other’s body language and emotions is fantastic. The body language is the determining factor that makes the bond stronger. 

Image credit: Samson Katt

It would be best if you had a better understanding of the dog’s body language. Do you understand what it is trying to say rolling over its back? Are they just trying to get your attention or expecting a belly rub? Take time to observe your puppy to understand what he is trying to say. Having a greater understanding of what he is trying to say will help you build a good relationship, and it will help you improve the communication between the two in the long run.

Usually, dogs use body language to communicate their feelings and needs. Since they do not have an exact vocabulary, it is essential to understand your pet’s body language. It is the only way they voice out their thoughts. So here is why your dog flops on its back and his legs up in the air.

There are a couple of reasons. One may be that it is nervous and needs your protection. And the other is it might be inviting for you to give it a perfect belly rub. But note that some dogs may like the belly rub, and some might find it a bit threatening. So, you need to know the difference between the need for a belly rub and a threat. 

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Do you know why a dog shows its belly when you are near him? 

It might be for a belly rub. But also, it is a way of letting you know not to harm him. The dog is in a very vulnerable position. The dog’s timid behavior can be further noticed if he licks his lips, tucks his tail, and opens his eyes so that you can see the whites and tension throughout the entire body. Also, some dogs turn their belly out to you not to get a belly rub but to avoid conflict. 

But some are more than happy to get a belly rub from you. It is their way of inviting you to it. They would turn their belly to you, wag their tails, and smile at you. They would try to use their whole body language to communicate it to the master or anyone they are comfortable with. 

Why do you think a dog needs a belly rub? As humans enjoy a massage, dogs enjoy a belly rub, too. They feel it soothing as it is an area that they cannot scratch themselves. The hair on their stomach gets stimulated, and it feels great. Also, when you rub your pet’s belly, the Oxytocin boost increases in both parties, so it is a win-win situation. The dogs demand affection, rolling on their backs, and building trust. 

Like humans, dogs require attention. 

They seek positive attention and love from those who love them. So they require it by asking for a belly rub. So, the owners must understand the demand and what type of belly rub they need. It might be an attention-seeking, playful, or just a rub to ease an itch. 

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How should you give a belly rub? 

Before you get near the dog for a belly rub, it is essential to understand the dog’s body language. You can rub your puppy’s belly well if all the signs are positive. Some dogs might not like the timing. Our timing might be different from theirs. So, it is essential to know your dog’s body language well. Like the dog, you, too, should have positive body language for the dog to come to you for a belly rub. 

Here are a few tips to make your pet realize you are ready to give him a belly rub.

When the dog turns its belly up for a rub, go down to its level and relax to let them know that you accept the invitation so that it will allow you into its personal space. After a free second of the rub, see if the dog wants it to continue. Some may wish to continue, and others may get tired after a few seconds. Try changing the pressure you apply, positions, and speed to check the dog’s response. 

You might have seen the dogs start kicking their legs repeatedly, their tongue handing out to the side when you rub their belly. It is called the stretch reflex. It indicates that you have hit the sweet spot of your puppy. A body mechanism happens when that particular spot is scratched, where the nerves communicate to the signal code to engage in the stretch reflex. 

The belly rubs are interesting, you see! The dogs love it; it is an excellent way to build a strong bond with your pet.