Did you know that cuddling and petting your dog enriches their lives?Â
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Dogs who cuddle with people have increased levels of oxytocin (happy hormone!) released and therefore creates relaxation, trust, and reduces their stress responses, like anxiety.
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It also makes you more in tune with your pet physically which means you can notice if something is wrong sooner.
But, there are a couple of ground rules for dogs who cuddle with you:
Let your dog decide if they want to engage with you- and when they want to leave
Avoid petting them when they are doing something you don't like
Allow them space when they are are eating or playing on their own
The most important thing is to stay in tune with how your dog is perceiving the petting, playing, and cuddling.
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If they are giving you signs that they are wanting to move away, or, conversely, if they are showing you where they'd like to be pet... go with it!
