Hug Your Dog Day!

Oxytocin is a neurochemical that helps us build trust, that somewhat “dissolves” short-term memory, and that makes you feel, well, warm all over. Studies show that even a brief touch of the hand from someone who cares can start your oxytocin pumping. So when you offer a bear hug to someone in pain, or receive a big old bear hug when you are in pain, you not only begin the healing process, but you also allow your body to shut down memories of the painful stimulus. In both humans and dogs, oxytocin, a hormone associated with love, attachment and trust is released from the brain when you hug your dog.

Some dogs however are actually stressed out by hugs. To figure out if your dog likes hugs be certain to look out for signs of anxiety, like turning head away to avoid eye contact, whining or barking, yawning, licking, or ears down and back and other body language signs. If your dog stays relaxed or even wags his tail, feel free to celebrate Hug Your Dog Day at your own risk, (we had to put this in here for legal reasons) every day.

Some dogs may not like hugs. But a noggin pet and ear scratch are always appreciated! Do we need to say more? Do we really need to ask for photos?!