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Petting Dogs - Part 2 - Consent Testing

In the previous blog we looked at the pressure dogs can feel from the ways we show them affection. What we view as us showing our love for them can be downright unpleasant for dogs.
Please check out the previous blog here: PettingDogs

This time we are going to take this further and look at how we can check with our dogs if they want affection from us at any given time. This is known as 'consent testing'.

“Hold on, we have to get our dog's consent to pet them?!”

Well, yes, if you want your dog to enjoy the petting it has to be when they feel like it. First of all, here are just some examples of when they may NOT feel like it:

  • If your dog is engaging in some interesting activity of their own – sniffing about, watching someone through the window, playing with a toy, eating their food, etc. – Forget it! They won't want you petting them.
  • If a dog is resting or sleeping– Leave them be.

A word on the word 'Petting'

When we are using the word 'petting' this doesn't mean 'patting' a dog (on the head for example). Dogs don't like that – see the dog in the cartoon above!

Nice 'petting' for a dog is more about stroking them, 'massaging' them - that kind of thing. It will of course depend on the individual dog – whatever it is they like.

What is 'Consent testing' when petting a dog

Consent testing is petting your dog for a few seconds, stopping the petting and watching your dog's reaction. Do they look at you in a nice relaxed way, do they move closer to you or lean closer to you, or do they paw at you when you stop? If so, these are good signs that your dog liked what you were doing, so you can resume the petting. But keep checking as they can have had enough at any stage.

If your dog moves away, or doesn't react in any way when you stop the few seconds of petting, leave them be.

Great video which explains all this

I could spend ages trying to explain consent testing for petting dogs, but there is a fantastic video by 'Dogkind' which does it much better than I ever could. Please watch it here:


“This petting dogs business isn't what it used to be”

I know why people would have that reaction. I used to think that just by being dogs they welcomed people petting them anytime. Like we were doing them a favour or something! I abandoned these assumptions a few years ago.

Sentient beings living their own lives

Dogs are sentient beings, living their own lives just as we are. Each one is an individual with their own likes and dislikes. It is important for their well-being to be able to have a say in what happens.

Please Note

If a dog looks hostile or aggressive obviously don't try to touch them.

If a dog looks scared or is trying to get away from you, don't think you will make them feel better by trying to pet them. You will be scaring them further. Give them space.


Ursula Linton

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