More than feel-good: why dogs invite belly rubs

Every pet deserves a loving and respectful home: please only consider acquiring a pet if you will be able to take care of its long-term needs. Also, consider choosing your animal companion from a shelter, where there are so many wonderful furry friends who need a forever home.

Families with dogs will appreciate the tender opportunity to bond when their furry companions roll onto their backs to have their bellies rubbed.

But the posture is not always an invitation for us to share our affection with them.

This video explores the other psychological motivations that may fuel the classic belly reveal by dogs we know, or don’t know, and suggests appropriate responses that keep the canine’s wellbeing in mind.

View the original video here.

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