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Do dogs like hugs? Can hugging cause them stress or anxiety?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 6 months old | 65 lbs

Is it true that when you hug your dog it increases their stress and anxiety level , I have a Labrador Pittbull mix

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 9th, 2017

Yes, this is unfortunately true. Hugging doesn't feel the same to dogs as it does to us, and it can make them stressed and anxious. Now keep in mind that not every dog reacts this way to hugs, so you can try hugging Granite to see how he reacts. Do it gently and slowly. If he pulls away or adopts a tense stance, then it is causing him stress and anxiety, and I would not hug him anymore.

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This depends on the individual dog. Many dogs feel threatened and restrained by what we perceive as a sign of affection with a simple hug around the neck. However, some dogs do not seem to experience any change in stress level with hugs. When in doubt, I'm sure Granite would be happy with plenty of ear scratches instead of hugs! :-)

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