Dogs Send Signals When Overwhelmed by Petting
• Many dogs don't actually enjoy being petted and hugged even though humans assume they do
• Signs a dog isn't enjoying petting include anxious body language like tucked tail and ears back
• Aggression like growling is a dog's way of clearly communicating "stop" with petting
• Safe alternatives are brief pets on the cheek, chin, avoiding the back area
• Look at dog's body language to understand their feelings; videos can teach owners how to read dogs better