Dogs are known as man’s best friend, and for good reason.
They’re loyal, protective, and always happy to see us. But one of the most endearing things about dogs is their tendency to want to be close to us all the time.
This is especially evident when they start holding our hands.
So why do dogs hold hands with us?
Dogs use touch as a way of communicating with humans. So when your dog takes hold of your hand, he or she is trying to connect with you and show that they care. Many dogs will also hold their owner’s hand for reassurance and comfort.
There are a few different reasons why your dog might start holding your hand.
One possibility is that they’re trying to show you affection.
Dogs use touch as a way of communicating, and this is one way they can express their love for you.
Another reason could be that they’re seeking comfort.
If your dog is feeling anxious or stressed, taking hold of your hand can be a way of feeling reassured.
Leaving the house
My youngest Cocker spaniel Betty will often hold my hand or arm when I am getting ready to head off to work before I leave the house.
I suspect that this is a form of anxiety where she is trying to hold onto me to stop me from going or it’s her way of attracting attention to say that she is there.
Coming home
In the same way Betty also holds my hand or arm when I return.
Maybe this is a form of greeting or again, a way for her to get reassurance.
Some dogs are naturally mouthy
Mouthing is a normal dog behaviour that puppies use to explore the world around them.
They mouth things to investigate them and they also mouth as a form of play.
This behaviour often continues into adulthood, but some dogs are more prone to it than others.
If your dog is a bit mouthy, they may start to hold your hand as a way of getting your attention.
Reassurance
Some dogs may start to hold your hand as they get older as a way of seeking reassurance.
As they age, they may become more anxious and clingy, and holding your hand is a way of feeling close to you and feeling safe.
Dogs are oral creatures
Dogs spend a lot of time chewing when they are youngsters and this is one way that they explore and understand the world around them.
They also experience lots of touch from humans, in the form of strokes and cuddles – which involves human hands.
As a human hand often represents petting then it’s possible and plausible to think that dogs hold hands with humans to show affection and to get reassurance.
Why do dogs hold your hand with their paws?
When a dog puts their paw on you, it can be a sign of affection.
They may do this to show you that they care about you and they may also do it as a way of seeking attention.
Pawing can also be a way of asking for something, such as food or attention.
If your dog puts their paw on you, it’s a good idea to ask them what they want and to try to decipher their body language.
Why do dogs put their head on your hand?
When a dog puts their head on your hand, it’s often a sign of affection.
They may do this to show you that they care about you and they may also do it as a way of seeking attention.
Why do dogs hold your arm when you pet them?
When a dog holds your arm while you’re petting them, it’s often a sign of affection.
They may do this to show you that they care about you and they may also do it as a way of seeking attention.
It can also be a way for them to get closer to you and to feel more connected to you.
Final words
Dogs are amazing creatures that have a special ability to form close bonds with humans.
One of the ways they do this is by holding our hands.
There are a few different reasons why your dog might start holding your hand, but it’s generally a sign of affection.
If your dog starts holding your hand it’s a sign that your dog cares about you and wants to be close to you.
Read Next
- Can Dogs Find Their Way Home? Understanding Canine Navigation Abilities
- Do dogs dream?
- Unraveling the Myth. Do Dogs Eat Homework?
- Understanding Dog Zoomies: Why Puppies and Spaniels Run Around Like Crazy
- Why Do Dogs Sleep on Their Backs? Unveiling the Sleeping Habits of Dogs
- Do dogs remember where they bury things?
