12 Ways Dogs Show Love
A wagging tail is commonly seen as a sign of a dog's affection, yet there are numerous other ways your canine companion might express their love for you. While dogs can't embrace you in their arms, they demonstrate their fondness through actions like leaning against you, offering you a toy, or even carrying around items that carry your scent, such as your frequently worn socks.
Dogs also show their affection through various other behaviors, such as wagging their tails or lifting a paw. Their emotions are primarily conveyed through body language, which can range from very subtle to quite pronounced. Deciphering pets' feelings based on their actions might not always be straightforward, but certain behaviors are clear indicators of their comfort and love towards you, and their desire to share those feelings.
Here we've compiled a list of 12 typical signs of affection dogs show, helping you recognize the moments your furry friend is telling you, "I love you."
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Holding Eye Contact
For dogs, engaging in prolonged eye contact is a gesture they reserve for those they trust, love, and feel secure around. Eye contact isn't only beneficial during training; it's also a powerful way to strengthen your bond with your dog. Remarkably, when your dog gazes into your eyes, it triggers the release of oxytocin in their brain. Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," is the same hormone that surges in mothers' brains during the initial bonding moments with their newborns.
The secret lies in sharing natural, relaxed eye contact while engaging in playful or affectionate interactions. Attempting to force eye contact might make your dog uneasy, causing them to look away.
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Leaning Against You
Just as with sustained eye contact, it's unlikely you'd lean against someone unfamiliar or untrusted, and the same principle applies to your dog.
When your dog presses their body against yours while you're seated on the ground or a sofa, it's a sign they're feeling protected, at ease, and entirely content in your presence, often seeking some affection or attention in the process. At times, a dog might lean on you during moments of fear or anxiety, indicating they view you as their safe haven and guardian.
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Sleeping in Your Bedroom
Choosing not to have your dog sleep in your bed, yet finding they prefer to slumber in your bedroom, is a strong indication of their affection for you. This desire to remain near you during the night reflects your dog's deep sense of loyalty and their instinctual preference for staying close to their pack members, avoiding separation.
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They’re Happy When You Get Home
When you return home from work, school, or running errands, does your dog greet you with jumps, hand and face licks, present you with a toy, or perhaps even show a bit of "excited peeing"? These behaviors are clear signs of their immense joy at your return. Likely, you feel just as delighted to reunite with your furry friend.
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They Carry Your Shoes and Stinky Socks Around
Dogs that form strong bonds with their owners often develop a fondness for their owners' smells, leading them to forage through your collection of shoes or laundry for items carrying your scent, such as socks, T-shirts, or underwear.
While taking shoes and laundry items might not be ideal, particularly if your dog has a habit of chewing on them, you can deter unwanted chewing by providing your dog with a variety of stimulating toys or chew toys designed for safety.
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They Check Up On You
Dogs that exhibit more independence might not constantly stick close to you or snuggle by your feet, yet this doesn't imply a lack of affection. When your dog glances over at you from a different room, looks back at you during a walk, or seeks you out in unfamiliar settings, it's their way of ensuring you're within reach.
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Seeking Physical Contact
Physical closeness plays a significant role in strengthening the bond between you and your dog. This doesn't mean you should scoop up your dog for a tight bear hug, but softer forms of affection like petting, cuddling, leaning, and gentle embraces are clear indicators of a deep connection between you and your canine companion.
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They Pee When It Sees You
It's not an indication of a setback in house training. Dogs, particularly young puppies, might have a slight accident out of excitement, but this is a behavior they typically outgrow, learning to control their bladder even when overjoyed. Should your dog continue this habit beyond puppyhood, it's wise to speak with your veterinarian to eliminate any underlying health concerns.
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They Bring You Their Favorite Toy
When your dog offers you their favorite toy, it's more than an invitation to play, though the desire to engage in playtime is also a significant expression of affection. By giving you their most treasured item, your dog is acknowledging you as the leader of their pack and sharing something deeply valued with you—a true gesture of honor and trust.
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They Smile at You
You're not imagining things! Indeed, certain dogs have mastered the art of "smiling" by drawing back their lips to display a broad, toothy grin. Responding with an enthusiastic smile and a cheerful tone will communicate your affection to your dog in return.
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They Wag Their Tail
Tail-wagging is often seen as a display of joy or fondness in dogs, but research suggests it can signify various feelings. A notable 2007 study in the journal Current Biology revealed that dogs tend to wag their tails more to the right when they're happy to see someone they recognize.
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Their Ears Are Relaxed
Floppy ears in dogs indicate they are at ease. When a dog's ears are perked up, it usually means they are on high alert, whereas ears that are pinned back or tense often denote anxiety or fear. Ears that hang loosely and comfortably suggest your dog is in a relaxed state, likely ready to enjoy some affectionate ear scratches.
