A belly rub or tummy rub is the act of gently touching a dog's stomach area.[1][2][3][4][5][6][7] 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 it 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]

Chiweenie dog receiving belly rub

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b Fratt, Kayla (2023-09-25). "Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs So Much?". thesprucepets.com. The Spruce Pets. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
  2. ^ "Why do dogs like belly rubs and tickling so much?". barclondon.com. Barc London. 27 April 2022. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
  3. ^ Mitchell, Sandra (2023-11-07). "Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs?". petmd.com. PetMD. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
  4. ^ Smargiasso, Claudia (29 October 2021). "Dogs and Belly Rubs: A Love Story Worth Reading". petcube.com. Petcube. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
  5. ^ "Rolling Over: Does Your Dog Want Belly Rubs?". dogkindtraining.com. Dogkind Training. 2022-05-23. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
  6. ^ "Belly Rubs: Here's Why It's A Pupper's Ultimate Weakness". canineactivitycenter.com. Fast Tracks Canine Activity Center. 2023-06-07. Retrieved 2024-03-10.
  7. ^ "What does it mean when a dog lets you rub their belly?". dearpet.in. DearPet. 2021-12-10. Retrieved 2024-03-10.