I recently lost my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Her name was Bailey. She was a great friend, and she most definitely loved her belly rubbed. Her passing prompted me to wonder just why she loved belly rubs so much. I did a little research online, and here’s what I found out.
There Is The Scientific Explanation
“Mammals have a brain neuron that responds to hair follicle stimulation,” says one scientific journal. And what’s interesting about this neuron – is that it is only activated by the stroking of hair. Scientists believe this reaction encourages good hygiene and social grooming in highly social animals, ie. dogs, cats, humans etc.
There Is the Sociological Explanation
Dogs use touch to find their place in the pack. They nuzzle and sniff when they trust, and they snap and nip when they don’t trust. A belly rub mimics one of these important interactions. Think of the amount of trust that it takes for a pet to bare their vulnerable underside. It says, “I trust you.” And when you rub their belly, you say back, “I love you, I care for you.” You can feel an animal completely relax during a belly rub, and for that brief few moments, their anxieties all dissipate.
There Is the Groomer’s Explanation
Dogs have a rough and textured tongue which helps them do a better job of grooming, however there are just certain spots on their body that are hard to reach. When you rub their belly, you are in essence helping them to groom their normally off-limits and protected underbelly. Your hand loosens and sweeps away loose fur, and spreads the natural oils in the skin.
And Then – There Is My Preferred Explanation
Belly rubbing is a comforting action. It’s an opportunity to deepen the bond with your dog. A good belly rubbing session can release endorphins and oxytocin in dog and owner alike, strengthening the bond between them. Dogs may interpret a belly rub as a display of affection and enjoy the experience because they feel loved and cared for.
I certainly know for my Bailey and me, this much was true. When she lay on her back looking up at me as I rubbed her belly, there was a communication passed in silence between us. She knew that she was special in my life, and I in hers, that our bond was deep and with her passing one that is sorely missed.
May she rest peacefully.
