Do Dogs Like to Be Petted on the Head?

Most dogs dislike being touched on top of the head and on the muzzle, ears, legs, paws and tail. Slow petting, similar to gentle massage or light scratching, can calm a dog down. Place your hand on an area where the dog enjoys being handled and gently move your hand or fingers in the same direction the fur lies.

Why should you not pet a dog on the head?

Patting a dog on the head can, in fact, be perceived as threatening behaviour by the dog. Sarah Bartlett, a qualified international dog training instructor, told The Mirror: "The wrong way to approach a dog is to walk up to them head on and just lean straight over them and go down and [stroke them].”

Why do dogs like to be pet on the head?

Still, "I find that most dogs (especially when their owners are handling them), love their head and ears scratched — it is a sign of affection, bonding and attention," Kaplan said.