Ahhh, the belly rub. Does your Chihuahua love a good ole’ fashion belly rub? Maybe yours demands one? Not all Chihuahuas love them. But have you ever stopped to wonder WHY they love belly rubs? Does it mean something when they do?
My Chico did not like lying on his back, even for a belly rub, but he enjoyed them if he was standing on his back legs. He would never voluntarily roll on his back. Unless, of course, he was rolling in something irresistibly smelly in the grass. Even then it was more of a one-side roll.
My Remedy and Cora LOVE belly rubs and would like me to do it all day long if I could. Winston is just like Chico was, doesn’t like being on his back at all. Huh? maybe it’s a female thing and males don’t like being on their backs? Tell me in the comments below; does your Chihuahua love belly rubs? Male or Female?
But, why do they love them? Is there something wrong if your Chihuahua doesn’t love a belly rub?
What Does It Mean?
When a dog rolls over on his back it is a sign of submission. But, not always! According to PetMd: “Belly rubbing is a comforting action.” “It’s an opportunity for bonding and part of our relationship with our dogs.”
Scientists agree that when you rub your Chihuahua’s belly it stimulates the hair follicles. That sends a message to the brain that is unique to dogs. It’s pleasurable, satisfying, and a great reward. When training your Chihuahua instead of a treat, occasionally give them a belly rub. Actually, affection is one of the greatest training tools to have in your “training toolbox”. It’s better than a treat to them.
It is also a sign that your dog trusts you. When they roll over on their back to you, it’s not just a sign of submission. They will be vulnerable this way to you because they trust you.
Is It Always A Sign of Submission?
Not always. Especially when interacting with other dogs. Researchers have watched videos of dogs playing and have discovered that although dogs may roll over while playing together, that is not always the reason. They noted that dogs rolling on their backs in front of other dogs have used that position to block playful bites or to launch an attack on the aggressor.
What If Your Chihuahua Doesn’t Love A Belly Rub?
Does it mean he doesn’t trust you? Not necessarily. A bad experience in their past could affect whether your Chihuahua likes a belly rub. Chihuahuas are little individuals. If your Chihuahua doesn’t like a belly rub, it could just not be his preference.
A Word of Caution
Keep in mind though if your Chihuahua has always loved a getting one, but suddenly he doesn’t it could mean a sore belly or a problem with their back that may be causing them pain.
Never Ever Try To Force It
You should never force a dog onto his back. All that will do is create distrust of you and an anxious Chihuahua.
If you are not sure if your Chihuahua enjoys a belly rub or not, look for signs that he is uncomfortable. If he is relaxed he will look loose and floppy. If he tucks his tail between his legs or hutches up his body, stop immediately and move away.
Another signal he is not comfortable is if he moves away or seems to relax when you stop rubbing his belly. Your Chihuahua will let you know. They are masters of asking for what they want.
