Does Your Dog Nuzzle You? The Many Meanings of This Sweet Behavior

It's another form of communication.

Of the countless reasons to love dogs, their willingness to express how they feel is near the top of the list. With wiggling bums and tip-tapping feet, it's easy to tell when a pup is feeling happy—the same way their heart-wrenching whimpers make it clear when they're sad.

But in between the tail whips and howls of despair, dogs have a whole vocabulary for their emotions. Humans simply need to learn their language.

We know that pups put their paws on us to show their love and will even move their eyebrows to pull on our heartstrings. But did you know that dog nuzzling behavior is yet another form of communication?

So, what exactly is Fido trying to get across by rubbing his face all over you? Any number of things, it turns out. Interpreting dog nuzzling is, really, all about the context of the gesture.

Inviting Friendship

If your canine nuzzles and rubs its head against a new person after giving them a sniff, it's likely an indication that it likes what it smells. In this context, that adorable nuzzle is actually an invitation of friendship.

As for why a dog might nuzzle its doting and devoted human, there are a number of possibilities. Fortunately, almost every one of them means it likes you. A lot.

Leaving Their Scent

If your dog runs the roost, this cute little behavior might be a way of displaying ownership over you. Dogs have scent glands in their faces, so when your furry child rubs its head on you, it might actually be an attempt to mark you with its scent. This kind of territorial marking serves as a signal to other dogs to steer clear.

A Show of Comfort

Nuzzles and head shoves in the context of a good old snuggle session, however, are much more straightforward. Puppies nuzzle their mothers for comfort, and when they grow up, they might nuzzle their humans similarly. It's a sign of affection and happiness. (Aw, he really does love you!) Dogs are also highly attuned to our emotions and have been shown to want to help their humans in times of distress. A sweet little nuzzle when you're feeling down could be your pup's way of cheering you up.

A Secret Scratch

And then there are the utilitarian nuzzles. We hate to put a damper on the romance here, but dogs also like to rub their faces on things when they're itchy. That's right. What might look like an act of affection could simply be a sneaky attempt to get a good scratch in. Some dogs even nuzzle their humans after they eat or drink as a way to wipe their faces! Sneaky, sneaky. Be wary of what's going on in your surroundings, though. Sometimes, when a dog is anxious or scared, it'll nuzzle its head into you for safety and comfort.

So, the next time your precious pup rubs his cute little face all over you, take it as a reminder that he's your number one fan.

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