Nuzzle

To touch or rub gently as a sign of affection.

Reach for it when describing a gentle rubbing or pressing gesture of affection or comfort

The old dog would nuzzle each visitor's hand for affection.

• playful

  nose

  an animal pushes or investigates with its nose

  not when Nosing can be curious rather than affectionate.

• playful

  snuggle

  settling closely for warmth and comfort is meant

  not when Snuggling can be still rather than a rubbing motion.

• everyday

  rub

  the physical back-and-forth contact is all that matters

  not when Rub loses the affectionate intent.

• warm

  cuddle

  close whole-body affection is central

  not when Cuddling need not involve the face or nose.

• formal

  caress

  a deliberate gentle touch expresses affection

  not when Caress is often done with a hand and can sound intimate.

• literary

  nestle

  settling into a sheltered position suits the scene

  not when Nestling does not require touching with the face.

• recoil
• shove
• avoid

• nuzzle gently

  The foal began to nuzzle gently against its keeper's sleeve.

• nuzzle into

  The sleepy child would nuzzle into the wool blanket.

• nuzzle someone's hand

  The old dog liked to nuzzle each visitor's hand.