Do Dogs Like Kisses and Hugs? How to Tell What Your Dog Really Feels

To us, a small kiss on the cheek or forehead is a way of showing love. So, it’s no surprise that many dog owners kiss and hug their dogs to show affection. But do dogs see kisses and hugs as loving gestures, or do they just put up with this strange thing humans do? How can you tell if a dog doesn’t like being kissed or hugged? And is it even safe or clean to kiss a dog on the mouth? Let’s break it all down together.

Why We Feel the Need to Kiss and Hug

It’s natural for us to kiss the people we love. Humans are social creatures who connect through hugs and kisses. We do this with family and friends, so it’s normal to want to do the same with our pets. But we must remember that dogs are a completely different species with their own communication methods.

In dog language, kissing and hugging don’t exist. You might think licking is a dog’s version of a kiss, but it’s not the same. When we kiss a dog, we bring our face close to theirs, making them feel nervous. To a dog, a face so close to theirs can seem like a threat.

Wrapping your arms around them in a hug can also make them feel trapped or unsafe. If a dog doesn’t fully trust you, they might see a hug or kiss as an invasion of their space. Especially if you just adopted a dog, trying to kiss or hug them immediately might scare them. They could back away, freeze, growl, or snap if they feel uncomfortable.

Teaching Your Dog That Kisses Are Safe

They might not understand your kisses and hugs if you brought a dog home. They could feel confused or even scared with your face so close to theirs. But with patience, dogs can learn to connect kisses and hugs with positive feelings.

One way to help them is by pairing kisses with gentle petting, a happy tone of voice, and yummy treats. Positive reinforcement like this teaches dogs that your kisses aren’t a threat. Over time, they might even come to enjoy everything that comes with the kissing experience.

Some dogs eventually see kisses as a sweet gesture and may even lick you back. Licking is something puppies learn early. Mother dogs lick their babies to keep them clean and comfortable. So when your dog licks you, it’s often their way of grooming you and showing they care.

Dogs also learn a lot about the world through licking. By licking your face, they can tell what you’ve eaten, where you’ve been, and even pick up on your mood and health. So, when your dog licks you after a kiss, they show love and gather information about you simultaneously.

Is It Safe to Kiss a Dog on the Mouth?

There’s a lot of debate about whether it’s okay to kiss a dog. Some people say dogs carry germs that can make you sick, while others believe kissing a dog might help strengthen your immune system.

Most bacteria in a dog’s mouth prefer living inside dogs, not humans, which means kissing a dog might be less risky than kissing another person. Still, it’s important to remember that dogs don’t brush their teeth. They eat things off the ground, dig in the trash, and sometimes even snack from the litter box.

Some of the germs in their mouths can be passed to people. These are called zoonotic bacteria. However, people with strong immune systems might not get sick easily from these germs. So, whether kissing your dog is safe depends a lot on the dog’s mouth and your health.

Signs Your Dog Doesn’t Want Kisses or Hugs

Dogs are good at telling us when they’re uncomfortable, but we must know what to look for. If dogs don’t want to be kissed, they might lean or look away, lick their lips, or freeze up. They might also stop wagging their tail or even show their teeth.

Many people miss these little signals and keep trying to kiss the dog, which can lead to a snap or bite. Never force a dog into close contact if they’re uncomfortable, especially when you’re meeting a new dog or a rescue.

Studies have shown that getting too close to a dog’s face—bending over them, making eye contact, and kissing—are some of the biggest reasons bites happen. Sadly, more than two-thirds of bite victims are kids. Young children treat dogs like stuffed toys and don’t see the warning signs.

Another study found that dogs show more stress when touched on the head or muzzle. They might yawn, freeze, lick lips, or have faster heartbeats. If your dog wags their tail, licks you, or acts happy when you kiss them, they’re probably okay with it. If not, finding another way to show them love is better.

Better Ways to Show Your Dog You Love Them

There are lots of ways to show love to your dog that they’ll appreciate even more than kisses or hugs. Most dogs love just being close to their favorite people. You can cuddle with them, pet them gently, and use a happy, loving voice.

Spending time together is what matters most. Play games, relax on the couch, and let them snuggle next to you. Going for walks or hikes together is another great way to bond. Some dogs even love running beside their owners.

Teaching your dog new tricks is also a fun way to connect. Training sessions with treats keep your dog happy and help strengthen your bond. When you make each other happy, it’s a beautiful way to show love.

Another way dogs show love is by leaning against you. If your dog leans their body into you, they’re saying they trust you. You can lean gently back to show you feel the same way. Just don’t push too hard—keep it soft and natural.

And above all, giving your dog your attention is one of the best gifts you can give. Nobody feels loved when they’re ignored, and that includes your furry friend.

Final Thoughts

What matters most is building trust and love with your dog in a way they can understand. Some dogs love kisses, some prefer cuddles, and some want to sit quietly by your side. Listen to your dog, respect their comfort zone, and find the ways they like to connect. That’s the heart of a truly special bond.