[gemy]

Actually no I don't if a hug is two arms around your dogs torso. I teach my biggies to accept single arm hugs as part of either the vet exam or part of the conformation exam. For guard n protect breeds and probably others this is a very restrictive position and one of forced submission, the dog is not feeling free to move away from the contact.

I instead do a lot of stroking - which is deliberate petting with a purpose. And yes that purpose can be and is to show love. But it helps me to feel their body condition and any lump n bumps, and also not to whirl their hair around into a tangled mess....

The other thing I don't encourage is kissing, although hubby does it all the time. I personally don't like dogs licking my face. Although I have two that are really willing to do it and one that thinks he is about to die if you were to ask him for a *kiss*.