"The Surprising Truth About Petting Your Dog: What Every Owner Needs to Know"
According to Dr. Emily Levine, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, many dogs don't actually enjoy being petted, hugged, or kissed, and may only tolerate it at best, with some even becoming frustrated and growling. She advises pet owners to pay attention to their dog's body language to determine if they are enjoying physical affection, and suggests alternative ways to express affection such as petting the cheek and chin. Dr. Levine emphasizes the importance of understanding a dog's communication and ensuring a balance of activities that the dog finds enjoyable, while also cautioning against hugging, which can make dogs feel suffocated.