11-29-2017, 04:20 AM
Lots of dogs I have experience with who were not even abused don't like hugs or cuddling. Of course it depends on the individual but as a whole dogs don't usually like hugs or cuddling where we put our arms around them/etc. When dogs communicate with each other, when they put forelegs on another dog it's usually an aggressive or threatening signal, so a lot of dogs are wired to interpret similar actions from humans as a threat or something that makes them nervous. In my experience most dogs also just don't like having their personal space invaded that much. I cuddle with my dog and cat how it's more natural to them, letting them lie down against me or press their bodies against mine. Most animals seem much more comfortable with that than hugs. If your dog doesn't enjoy hugs, cuddles, or having you in his "personal space bubble," maybe try letting him show affection in his own way. My best friend's dog doesn't like lots of physical affection but he shows he cares about her in other dog ways.
