Behaviour Vets author Lauren Novack believes dogs who do enjoy hugs are a complete ‘exception’, reports Daily Paws.

She said: “When dogs don’t like something and politely ask for space over and over again to no avail, they’re likely to escalate their communication to growling or biting.

“I don’t want dogs to be stressed, and I don’t want humans to get bitten. For most dogs, hugs are stressful.”

Stanley previously analysed 250 photos of dogs being given hugs, and he found that in 80% of the images, the dogs showed signs of looking stressed.

And he noted that this can be indicated by a dog lowers their ears, closing their eyes, or turning away from the source of anxiety.

And the psychologist has now revealed some much better alternatives.

He said: “The clear recommendation to come out of this research is to save your hugs for your two-footed family members and lovers.

“It is clearly better from the dog’s point of view if you express your fondness for your pet with a pat, a kind word, and maybe a treat.”

And the last thing we want to do is upset our furry babies, so we’re definitely going to take this advice on board!