Why Do Dogs Like Scratches?

Most dog lovers can’t help but give every good boy and good girl they meet some scratches. Head, chest, and belly scratches are very satisfying to give, and most dogs love receiving them.

Feeling that urge to pet a dog whenever you see one is an automatic response for most dog lovers. But why do dogs love to be scratched so much, and why do we so happily oblige?

Dogs like scratches because it releases the oxytocin hormone in their brains. It is also a sign of affection and helps increase their bond with their humans. Petting your dog can also help decrease anxiety in stressed-out pets. 

Scratching Is a Sign of Affection for Dogs

Petting and scratching your pooch is a sign of love and attention, and being social animals, most dogs eat that up like their favorite treat!

When you take the time to scratch your dog, you show them affection in a way that they understand. Communicating with your dog can sometimes be challenging, but they understand pets and scratches.

Especially when you first meet your dog or if you are meeting a new dog for the first time, making friends is really important. Petting is a universal sign of affection that all dogs and humans understand.

If you want proof of just how much dogs like scratches, please take a minute to watch this super-cute video:

 

NOTE – You might enjoy reading this post looking at why dogs rub against you as a cat does.

Other Ways To Show Dogs Affection and Love

Though most dogs like being scratched, some dogs don’t like being touched as much as others.

If you are looking for some additional ways to show your dog some love, try one of these:

• Spend time with them. There is nothing dogs like more than spending time with their owners. Dogs enjoy quality time just as much as their humans do. Snuggling on the couch and watching your favorite TV show together is a great way to tell your pup you love them.
• Take them for a walk. Ensuring your dog stays active is also a great way to show affection. Taking them on a walk, hiking, or visiting a local dog park will help keep them active, healthy, and happy.
• Buy them a new toy. Everyone loves presents, and dogs are no different! So showing your dog some love by bringing home their new favorite toy is a great idea. Especially if it is one that you can play with together or one that will keep them company while you are away from home.
• Keep their mind active. Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as physical activity. Giving your dog ways to exercise their brain with items such as puzzle toys are a great way to show them you care.
• Attend training classes. Training classes are always a good idea with pups. Training not only increases the bond between you and your dog, but it also helps you communicate with each other and builds trust. If you just got a new puppy or adult dog, consider finding a local training class to attend.

Bonding Between Dogs and Humans Increases During Petting

Petting your dog also increases the bond between the human and canine. When you pet a dog, the chemical oxytocin is released in your brain and your dog’s brain.

This chemical is often referred to as the “love hormone” or “attachment hormone,” It helps strengthen the bond between a human and their furry friend.

Other behaviors such as eye contact, cuddling, and hugging can also release this hormone. When we are petting our dogs, we often do a combination of these other acts. This further increases our bond with our pets.

So next time you meet a new dog or want to show your own dog a little extra love, give them some scratches, and they will love it!

Scratches Can Be Seen as a Reward by Dogs

In addition to the extra attention and affection, scratching can also be a reward. Just like when we give our pups a treat for doing something good, petting can also signify a job well done.

If you happen to be caught with no treats on hand and want to reward a specific behavior, giving a good pet and saying “good boy” or “good girl” is a great alternative.

Not only will they enjoy the love, but they will associate the behavior with the release of the oxytocin, further enforcing that good behavior.

Scratches Help Relieve a Dog’s Anxiety

The benefits of a good scratch don’t stop there; petting your dog also helps relieve anxiety in both you and your pet.

Going back to that feel-good hormone oxytocin, if your pet is feeling anxious, some loving scratches can help them release some of that chemical and ease their nerves.

It is essential to have a good bond with your dog before approaching them when anxious. Every dog acts differently in stressful situations.

If your dog acts out aggressively or is uncomfortable being touched when stressed, it is best not to overwhelm them with pets or scratches and let them come to you for affection when they are ready.

Where To Pet or Scratch a Dog

Now that we’ve discussed why it is an excellent idea to pet your dog, we need to discuss where you should pet them. Some dogs like being touched in certain places more so than others. The best places to pet your dog are:

• Back
• Shoulders
• Chest
• Belly
• Under the chin
• Butt
• Hips

Where Not To Pet a Dog

If you are getting to know a new pup, the areas named above are the best places to pet them to build the initial bond and trust.

There are certain areas of a dog’s body, such as the top of their head or ears, that they only allow trusted humans to touch. If you are unfamiliar with the dog, you may want to avoid these areas until you have formed a bond.

Other areas of your dog that you will want to stay away from include their face and paws. While your dog may be okay with the occasional touch on the face or paw, they typically don’t like contact in these areas for an extended period.

Petting them extensively in these areas may make them uncomfortable.

Final Thoughts on Dogs and Scratches

Petting your dog is a great way to show affection and attention to your pup. The act also releases the oxytocin hormone, which increases bonding and decreases anxiety.

Giving your dog a good scratch is one of the best ways to show them you love them. Just be sure to pet them in the areas they like best and avoid areas that may make them uncomfortable.