If you're a dog owner, it's normal to bless them with countless hugs and love.
But did you know cuddling your pets too much could have a negative effect on them?
Experts revealed why you should never snuggle your pooch as it could trigger stress.
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It most causes, the dog tries to communicate their discomfort by barking or growling.
Psychologist Stanley Coren said the majority of dogs actually become distressed when they feel immobilised by a hug.
He told Psychology Today it's because a pup's primary defence is to run away.
It's worth remembering some hugs can be more harmful than others.
Expert Patricia McConnell said in her blog, The Other End Of The Leash, that it's not really "hugging" for them.
She wrote: "Yes, your dog may leap into your lap and kiss your face, cuddle against your neck, and beg you to rub her belly. But that's not 'hugging'.
"In my experience, many dogs don't enjoy having a human move one or two arms around their shoulders and squeeze. That's the hug we are talking about."
Meanwhile Behaviour Vets author Lauren Novack believes dogs who do enjoy hugs are the "exception", reports Daily Paws.
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She explained: "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."
But Stanley previously analysed 250 photos of dogs being hugged and found over 80% of the photos demonstrated stress or anxiety.
He revealed stress can be indicated when a dog lowers their ears, closes their eyes or turns away from the source of anxiety.
The psychologist said there are better ways to show affection.
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."
It doesn't mean that you have to completely stop giving your dogs affection.
Other forms of this could include quality time and gentle touch.
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