Research Finds Hugging Your Dog Makes It Sad

Doggies. We love 'em. But researchers say you shouldn't be showing your love to them by hugging them. 

It makes them sad.

When you enclose your pet in your arms, their animal reaction is to run away, meaning you are making them anxious by trapping them, researchers claim.

In a study of dogs, 81 per cent appeared to be stressed and uncomfortable when they were in a human's arms.

Noooooo we're making our babies sad!? :'(

Dr Stanley Coren, a canine expert and professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia, in Canada, examined 250 pictures of dogs being hugged by adults and children, and analysed them for signs of stress.

When canines are especially anxious, they bare their teeth or bite, but Dr Coren said there are also subtler indicators.

Signs include flattened ears, half moon eyes, avoiding eye contact altogether or when a dog licks its lips. Yawning or raising one paw are other giveaways.

In an article in Psychology Today, Dr Coren wrote that "[there are] many pictures of happy people hugging what appear to be unhappy dogs", adding: "Dogs are not human children."

So, next time you need to show your dog just how much you love him, perhaps show it with a pat.