Gestures speak louder than words: at least with dogs, this is clearly the case. Putting on the infamous paw has different meanings.
For most dog owners, there's nothing quite like relaxing on the couch with their furry companion after work. The same situation occurs again and again: The dog suddenly puts its paw on the arm or leg of its owner. You've probably already wondered what the reason for this behavior is. In fact, there's more to it than just attachment. Dogs want to tell us something important.
1. Your dog expresses his love
First of all, it may simply be that your four-legged friend feels just really comfortable and comfortable. Since he cannot express his affection with words, he resorts to body language. After all, we humans also hug or kiss each other to communicate our love to the other. It's the same with the dog: When your faithful companion gently puts his paw on you, he means "I love you" in dog language. How cute!
Dogs seek physical contact with their mistress or master in many moments. (Symbolic image) © IMAGO
2. Your dog craves attention
Dogs are social animals and need lively interaction with their owners in order to be happy. Unfortunately, due to other commitments, we don't always have time to play and cuddle extensively with our pets. If the dog puts his paw on you, it can be a sign that he wants attention or a stroke. Have you recently spent less time with your four-legged friend? Then make a special effort to respond to the needs of your hairy pet and give him the attention he needs.
3. Your dog wants to eat
Dogs remember exactly when they are fed. If you miss the time, your four-legged friend may become restless and touch you with his paw. Nevertheless, you should not jump at the signal right away. Otherwise, the dog learns that the gesture is rewarded with food every time and he himself determines when he is allowed to eat. Some dogs have also learned from the command "Give Paw" that they get a treat thanks to the gesture. However, you should only reward your furry friend if the command has actually been given. If that's not the case, just ignore your dog.
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4. Your dog wants to give comfort
There's a good reason why dogs are called "man's best friend." The four-legged friends have a keen sense of the mood of their owners and instinctively feel when they are sad or stressed. By putting down their paws, they want to give comfort and express their sympathy. Are you going through a difficult time right now? Fortunately, you are not alone: your faithful companion is always there for you.
5. Your dog is scared
Noise, strangers or an unfamiliar environment are a stressful situation for many dogs. If, in addition to the raised paw, there are other signs such as trembling, ears or smacking noises, then this means that your four-legged friend is afraid. In this situation, you as the owner are called upon: Distract your dog with games or cuddles and show him that he is safe. Your Bello now needs an extra dose of love and affection to get her mind off things.
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6. Your dog feels dominant
It may also happen that putting down the paw is a sign of dominance. If the dog makes eye contact with its owner in the process, it may mean that it considers him a submissive part of its pack. This behavior usually only occurs in dogs that have not been adequately trained or socialized. It can also occur in breeds that, due to their temperament or personality, are more likely to exhibit dominant behavior. In these cases, the dog must learn clear rules and boundaries. A dog trainer can help with education.
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What can I do against the paw?
Of course, it is cute when the dog seeks physical contact and thus expresses his affection at best. However, if it gets your favorite white pants dirty or disturbs you while you're working, the fun is over. Your four-legged friend should learn that he must follow your rules. It is best to ignore the paw and avoid eye contact. Position yourself so that your dog can no longer touch you. If he then stops giving the paw, you can praise him or reward him with a treat.