What Does It Mean if a Dog Pokes Your Leg With Its Nose?

Although your dog's actions usually might be endearing, they might not always be clear to you. If your dog nudges your leg using his wet little nose, it can be difficult to determine what he's trying to convey or request. In many cases, canine nose nudging is an attention-seeking gesture.

  1. "Love Me"

    • By poking your leg using his nose, your pooch could be asking for a little bit of love and cuddling, courtesy of you. Dogs can't ask for kisses and petting sessions using words, but they can poke your legs to get those things. If you suspect this is what your pet wants, snuggle up with the furry guy.

    "I Want Some of That Yummy Food"

    • If you're peacefully sitting at the dinner table enjoying a meal of chicken cacciatore or something equally tasty, your dog's poking your leg with his nose could mean that he wants to join in on the food fun. He smells the delicious chicken, and he wants a little piece of the culinary excitement. Since he's probably at least close to eye level with your legs, poking on them using his nose isn't an illogical tactic. Note that giving in to begging behavior might encourage him to make a habit of it. Also abstain from allowing your pet to eat any "people food" unless you're certain it's safe for him to eat.

    "Acknowledge Me!"

    • Nose nudging often signifies the desire for attention in general, as a rather assertive behavior. Even if your pet is nowhere near the dinner table or sofa, his poking at you could denote his need for you to do something for him. Maybe he wants you to take him for an excursion at the local dog park. Maybe he wants you to play fetch with him. Maybe he wants you to open the door to his favorite room in your home -- the downstairs den. He might be telling you that he has to go to the bathroom.

    "You're Obstructing Something Important"

    • If you're lounging around on your comfy easy chair watching the weekend news, your dog nudging your legs could mean that you're blocking him from gaining access to something he considers important. Maybe that specific cozy chair is his preferred site for leisurely napping. Perhaps he sees one of his most beloved toys on the side of the chair and wants you to stand up so he can play with it again.