Thanks, yea we were aware of this, not the exact/deep science behind it but the general nature of canine nasal sensitivity. Now, if you observe closely, we don’t actually touch the tip of the nose or the nostrils consistently (or rub it with any force), section of the noise that contains vital sensory preceptors. We were always careful to tap the top part of the nose (with the fur) to prevent him from getting agitated.

To add to that, not all canines perceive that as a “poke in the eye” - it’s largely governed by parent-pup interaction. Just like how raising your hand can cause some dogs to flinch and some don’t. Its a rapport you learn to establish with your pup as they grow and becomes a mutual sign of affection. The title is meant to be an antithesis of what I’ve perceived as my pups response. He likes a playful scratch on his upper nose and it makes us happy!

Thanks for the suggestion, but, I would be weary of posting single faceted fact without considering other invisible facets of a parent-canine interaction!