You have an immense affection for your dog, but do you think they share these sentiments? A specialist in canine behavior offers crucial indicators to understand your pet’s genuine emotions.
You’re sure your dog loves you. You’re likely correct. After all, they’re called ”
man’s best friend
” for a reason!
However, what methods ensure accuracy? Additionally, how do dogs convey their fondness? Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, an expert in canine behavior, shed light on how our four-legged friends show love, aiding pet owners in understanding their pets more deeply.
11 indicators your canine genuinely adores you
To understand your dog’s feelings, Dr. Scales-Theobald pinpointed 11 particular behaviors that signify affection. Should your puppy show these signs, there’s absolutely no question that they have fondness for you!
1. Seeking physical affection
What’s a better way to reinforce a bond than with some snuggles? Dogs look for love to feel more connected to their human companions. Stroking them doesn’t just deepen your relationship; it also triggers the release of oxytocin, frequently referred to as the
“love hormone
This enhances trust and builds connections. During these interactions, dopamine is also released, fostering joy and decreasing stress.
2. Nudging
When your dog pokes you with their snout or pushes your arm after you’ve stopped petting them, they’re essentially telling you not to quit. According to Dr. Scales-Theobald, certain dogs exhibit this behavior in an enthusiastic and persistent fashion, whereas others might be more understated about it. Acknowledging these gestures strengthens your connection and lets your canine companion know how much you care for them.
3. Seated beside you
If your dog suddenly sits next to you without any obvious cause, this is an unspoken gesture of trust and affection. Regardless of whether they choose to be right beside you, rest their head on you, or just remain near, their closeness indicates a strong bond with you.
4. Relying heavily on you
When your canine companion presses up against you, places their head in your palm, or perches on your toes, they’re looking for solace and reassurance. As noted by Dr Scales-Theobald, such actions can sometimes be interpreted as these pets asserting ownership over you, particularly evident when they prefer resting on your footwear!
5. Requesting tummy strokes
If a dog flips over onto its back and shows you its belly, it generally indicates trust. Nonetheless, this action might also point towards submission or unease. Distinguishing between these involves looking at their overall demeanor; if they have a loose stance with a wiggling tail, they’re probably asking for some rubs. Conversely, should their ears flatten down and tail tuck in, it may signal discomfort or fear.
6. Following you everywhere
A dog that accompanies you from one room to another, often referred to as a ”
Velcro dog
has a strong attachment to you. Although this loyalty is heartwarming, too much clinginess could suggest separation anxiety. Should your dog seem upset whenever you depart, seeking advice from a trainer or behavior specialist might be beneficial.
7. Sharing toys
Toys rank high as your dog’s favorite belongings (next to treats, which they likely keep for themselves). When your furry friend offers you a toy, it’s more than an invitation to play; it signifies trust and affection.
8. Initiating play
A playful bow from a dog, accompanied by wagging tails, is an invitation for you to partake in the enjoyment. Participating in such activities enhances your connection with them and offers crucial physical and mental enrichment.
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9. Jumping on you
While jumping can be an annoying habit, it’s often a dog’s instinctive way of greeting and expressing excitement. Since this behaviour can be problematic, especially with larger dogs, it’s best to train them to greet you more calmly.
10. Sleeping near you
Dogs feel most vulnerable when they sleep, so if your pup snoozes close to you, it’s a sign of deep trust. Even if house rules prevent them from sleeping in your bed, their preferred sleeping spot can reveal how secure they feel with you.
11. Licking you
Dogs often lick as a sign of affection, but excessive licking can also signal anxiety or discomfort. If your dog’s ears are pinned back or their body seems tense, they may be stressed rather than affectionate.
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Ways to demonstrate your dog’s affection in response
Now that you know the signs of canine affection, you can respond in ways that make your dog feel loved in return. And don’t underestimate the power of words! A study by Canine Cottages found that a dog’s heart rate increases by 46.2% when they hear
“I love you.”
So, go ahead, tell your furry friend how much they mean to you!
