A belly rub or tummy rub is the act of gently touching a dog's stomach area. Numerous dogs enjoy belly rubbing, but not all of them. When a dog rolls on their back, it may be an indication that the dog wants a belly rub, however this is not always the case. A dog’s stomach is an immensely vulnerable part of their body. Some body language that indicates that a dog wants a belly rub includes vocalization, tail waggling, open (or squinty) eyes, relaxed and open mouth, while their body is wiggly and loose. If the dog kicks their leg or both legs during belly rub, it is completely normal, and the phenomenon itself is called a scratch reflex.[1][2][3]
While some cats enjoy belly rubs,[4] many do not. If a cat rolls onto its back, exposing its belly, it may be finding a comfortable position to sleep, or inviting another cat to play fight.[5]
See also
References
- ^ Fratt, Kayla (2023-09-25). "Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs So Much?". thesprucepets.com. The Spruce Pets. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
- ^ Mitchell, Sandra (2023-11-07). "Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs?". petmd.com. PetMD. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
- ^ "Rolling Over: Does Your Dog Want Belly Rubs?". dogkindtraining.com. Dogkind Training. 2022-05-23. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
- ^ "Hoping for a home". The Nutley Sun. Nutley, New Jersey. January 26, 2012. p. A12. Retrieved 10 March 2025.
- ^ Steinrock, Karen (November 10, 2012). "Give your cat a belly rub at your own risk". The Patriot-News. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. p. 14. Retrieved 10 March 2025.
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