SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dog-kids-where-to-pet

With the owner's OK, where is the best place to pet a dog you do not know?

The chest, side or back, not the top of the head.

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  1. The top of its head
  2. Its chest, side or back ✔
  3. Its tail

Why: Let the dog sniff your hand first. Then gently rub its chest, side or back. Many dogs do not like strangers patting their heads, and pulling ears, hair or tails hurts.

Huh, didn't know that: Sniffing is a dog's way of saying hello, like a handshake.

The dad joke
Why did the dog love belly rubs? They were tummy-thing special.
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References

Answer: Its chest, side or back. Let the dog sniff your hand first. Then gently rub its chest, side or back. Many dogs do not like strangers patting their heads, and pulling ears, hair or tails hurts.

  1. University of Illinois Extension, Playing It Safe web.extension.illinois.edu/dogs/playingitsafe.cfm?Slide=6
    Rub the dog on the dog's chest, side or back
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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