It is generally accepted that you can safely pet a dog on the head.
This is exactly how many people behave when they want to establish contact with an unfamiliar dog.
It would seem that everything is correct. After all, this is a classic way of interacting with a barking animal.
But in reality, everything is not so simple. It turns out that touching a dog's head is not advisable.
Keep this in mind when trying to "make friends" with a friend's or relative's pet.
Why you shouldn't pet a dog on the head
By placing a hand on a dog's head, a person will likely think that he has demonstrated a friendly gesture.
But the dog will perceive this movement differently.
The dog will most likely begin to feel that the stranger is trying to show his dominant position.
The thing is that wild animals behave similarly: if a representative of the canine family wants to show that he is “in charge” and suppress the will of another individual, he will put his paw on its head.
Therefore, never pet unfamiliar dogs on the head: there is a risk that the animal will react negatively to this gesture.
Is it okay to pet your dog on the head?
Yes, this is acceptable. But only if your pet is already accustomed to such petting and reacts to it normally.
If you, while stroking your dog on the head, feel that your four-legged friend does not like what is happening, then stop.
