Some, but not all, dogs are ticklish. In most cases it manifests itself as an involuntary twitching of the legs. However, there is no laughter or outcry.
Touch activates nerves under the skin that are connected to the spinal cord. These in turn send a signal to the corresponding muscles, causing a twitch.
Basically, tickling in mammals can manifest itself in 3 different forms:
- Involuntary laughter
- Involuntary crying out
- Involuntary twitching
While you usually see a combination of all three forms in humans, tickling in dogs usually only manifests itself as an involuntary twitch.
Dogs can laugh, but it usually only manifests itself through forced exhalation. According to studies, they also show joy by barking, howling and growling. [1]
The intensity of the tickling depends on your individual mood and the location.
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Where are dogs ticklish?
Dogs are most commonly tickled on the underside of their paws. More precisely, the hair sticking out there.
Dogs with long hair in their ears – such as a Siberian Husky – also often allow themselves to be tickled. They then usually scratch behind their ears with their paws.
The same goes for bearded dogs. Here, stroking the side of the beard is enough to trigger an involuntary head shake.
People, on the other hand, are more likely to be ticklish on their backs, armpits and neck. This is not the case with dogs. For example, our dog “Alex” is only ticklish on his paws.
In addition, dogs – just like people – are not always ticklish. Because it depends on your mood. When you are angry or sad, you usually don't twitch.
Why are some dogs not ticklish?
Even in humans, this question has not yet been fully answered. Some dogs are said to simply have less sensitive nerves on their skin. However, the research on this is still unclear.
The exact reason for the tickling is also still unclear. However, there are several theories:
- A) Tickling could be a function of building a social relationship.
- B) Tickling could be a relief after a non-threatening touch. [2]
This phenomenon can only be observed in some mammals. Reptiles, birds, amphibians and fish are not ticklish.
How can you tickle your dog?
It is best for this when your dog is completely relaxed – such as when sleeping. Then just sneak up and stroke the hair underneath the paw.
This video shows it:
Do dogs like to be tickled?
Here too, there are individual differences – just like with us humans. My dog “Alex” and my two previous labradors weren’t a fan of it.
I know this because after the 2nd or 3rd time they hid their paws under their muzzles. Tickling is then no longer possible.
Other dogs lie on their backs and enjoy the additional attention of their master.
Even among people, opinions are very mixed. According to studies, only 32% like being tickled, 32% have a neutral opinion and a full 36% don't like it. [3]
However, you should refrain from tickling if you receive the following signals:
- Deep growl
- Tense posture
- Baring your teeth
- Rigid fixation on the other person
- Raised fur
In this case, your dog feels threatened by the touch.
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