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Hugging Border Collies is a simple yet powerful way to strengthen your connection with these intelligent and affectionate dogs. They thrive on attention and physical touch.
Border Collies are highly sensitive to energy and emotions, so a gentle hug can help calm their nervous system and build trust. This can be especially beneficial for high-strung or anxious dogs.
By hugging your Border Collie, you're also showing them love and affection, which can strengthen your bond and create a lifelong connection.
Why Border Collies Hug
Border Collies are known to be a breed that's smart, affectionate and energetic. They're also blessed with the ability to literally hug each other.
It's incredibly rare for dogs to hug like humans, but two rescue Border Collies named Envy and Zain are an exception. They live in Pennsylvania and share a truly remarkable bond.
These two dogs know how to hug by jumping up and using their paws to embrace. It would be so reassuring to have them around when you're having a bad day and just need a hug.
Border Collies are a popular breed, and Envy and Zain are a huge hit on Instagram with 150,000 followers. Their photos showcase their playful and lovable sides.
If you've ever owned a Collie or watched the classic TV show "Lassie", you know how special they are.
Benefits of Hugging a Border Collie
Hugging a Border Collie can have a profound impact on both you and your furry friend. They are highly social dogs that thrive on interaction and affection.
Their intelligence and trainability make them quick learners, and they often form strong bonds with their owners. This bond is strengthened through physical contact, like hugging.
Border Collies are known to release oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone", when they receive affection from their owners, which can lead to feelings of calmness and relaxation.
Additional reading: Are Border Collies Good for First Time Owners
Physical Characteristics That Encourage Hugging
Border Collies are naturally inclined to be affectionate, and their physical characteristics play a significant role in this trait. Their medium to large size makes them perfect for cuddling and snuggling.
Their muscular build and athletic physique allow them to comfortably wrap their bodies around yours, creating a sense of security and warmth. This physical ability also enables them to maintain a tight hug for extended periods.
Their medium-length coat is soft to the touch, making it a pleasure to be hugged by a Border Collie. Their double coat also provides a natural layer of insulation, keeping you warm and cozy during a hug.
Their large, expressive eyes are often described as "puppy-like", which can melt even the coldest of hearts.
Consider reading: Rough Coat Border Collie
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Hugging a Border Collie can be a powerful stress-reliever. According to research, interacting with dogs can lower cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone.
Physical touch is a key component of this stress-reduction. Studies have shown that physical contact with dogs can increase oxytocin levels, often referred to as the "cuddle hormone", which promotes feelings of relaxation and calmness.
The physical act of hugging a Border Collie can also have a profound effect on our nervous system. The gentle pressure and warmth can stimulate the vagus nerve, helping to regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
Border Collies are highly attuned to their owner's emotions, making them excellent emotional support animals. By sensing their owner's stress and anxiety, they can provide comfort and reassurance through physical contact and affection.
Strengthening the Bond Between Owner and Dog
Strengthening the bond between you and your Border Collie is crucial for their emotional and mental well-being. Regular hugging can release oxytocin, the "love hormone", which strengthens the bond between owner and dog.
Border Collies are highly social animals that thrive on interaction and attention from their owners. They have a unique ability to form strong emotional bonds with their family.
Hugging your Border Collie can help reduce stress and anxiety in both you and your dog. Research shows that physical touch can lower cortisol levels and heart rates.
Consistency and patience are key when building a strong bond with your Border Collie. With regular hugging and interaction, you can develop a deeper understanding of your dog's needs and personality.
Border Collies are intelligent and responsive to their owner's emotions, making them highly attuned to nonverbal cues. They can pick up on subtle changes in your mood and body language.
How to Hug a Border Collie
Border Collies are known for their intense gaze, so be prepared for them to stare intensely while you're hugging them. They can maintain eye contact for up to 30 seconds, so don't be surprised if they keep looking at you.
To hug a Border Collie, start by approaching them calmly and gently. They have a strong prey drive, so sudden movements can trigger their instinct to chase.
Border Collies are highly intelligent dogs and can pick up on subtle cues, so be mindful of your body language and tone of voice. They thrive on interaction and attention, so they'll likely enjoy the physical contact of a hug.
Approaching and Initiating Hugs
Border Collies are naturally inclined to lean against their owners, so if they're leaning against you, it's a good sign they're open to a hug.
Their tails will often wag in a loose, open motion, indicating excitement and friendliness.
Approach your Border Collie from the side, rather than directly from the front, to avoid overwhelming them.
They're highly attuned to body language, so be sure to keep your arms relaxed and open, rather than stiff or rigid.
If your Border Collie nuzzles their head against your chest, it's a clear sign they're ready for a hug.
Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Hug
When hugging a Border Collie, make sure to approach them calmly and quietly, as sudden movements can startle them.
Border Collies are highly sensitive to touch and pressure, so be gentle and soft in your hug.
A good rule of thumb is to let the dog initiate contact, as they will often nuzzle or lean into you.
Border Collies often prefer hugs that are shorter in duration, typically around 10-15 seconds.
For a more comfortable hug, try hugging your Border Collie around the chest or shoulders, as this is where they tend to relax the most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Border Collies like to be hugged?
Border Collies are known to be affectionate and love physical contact, making them a great match for hugging. However, their affectionate nature is best expressed through cuddling rather than being physically restrained.
Are Border Collies possessive of their owners?
Border Collies can become possessive of their owners if not properly trained to control their instinctual behaviors. Proper training and socialization can help prevent possessiveness and strengthen the bond between dog and owner.
How clingy are Border Collies?
Border Collies are known to be highly clingy due to their high energy and strong instinct to follow their owners' movements. This breed's strong attachment to their owners is often described as "Velcro-like
Sources
- https://www.petcompanionmag.com/have-you-had-your-hug-today/
- https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/rescue-border-collies-obsession-cuddling-153000329.html
- https://littlethings.com/pets/two-rescue-border-collies-lovingly-hug-eachother
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/border-collie-hugs-her-brother-203100500.html
- https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/lifestyle/2011/07/01/beloved-border-collie-brings-liveliness/49981549007/
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