Did you know that dogs release oxytocin, the “love hormone,” when they interact with their owners? Dogs show affection in many ways that aren’t always obvious. Let’s look beyond those big, puppy-dog eyes, goofy grins, and incessant licking to the other clues that signal your pup is crazy about you.
Tail Wagging
When your dog sees you, pay attention to how it wags its tail. A relaxed, full-body wag with a “helicopter” tail is a clear sign of happiness and affection towards you. This type of tail movement shows they are genuinely pleased to see you.
Following You Around
If your dog follows you from room to room, it’s not just curiosity—it’s a sign of deep affection. Dogs who are attached to their owners want to be by their side as much as possible. This behavior, known as ‘velcro dog syndrome,’ indicates that your presence is desirable.
Jumping Up
While jumping up can sometimes be seen as poor manners, it’s often a dog’s way of showing excitement and love when you come home. Training can curb this exuberant behavior, but the impulse comes from a joyful and loving place.
Licking Your Face
Dogs show affection and respect through licking. If your dog licks your face frequently, it’s a sign they feel comfortable and loving towards you. This grooming behavior is a dog’s way of expressing fondness and a desire to take care of you.
Gentle Biting
Playful or gentle biting, especially as a puppy, can be a sign of affectionate play and bonding. This is a way for dogs to explore their environment and interact with their favorite people. It’s important, however, to train them to moderate their bite so it remains gentle.
Bringing You Their Toys
If your dog brings you toys, it sees you as their pack leader and trusts you with their prized possessions. This act is a token of their love and trust, showing they value sharing their most enjoyable moments with you.
Comforting You
Dogs are incredibly empathetic; they can detect sadness or illness in their owners and will often try to offer comfort. If your dog stays close to you when you’re feeling down, it’s because they love you and want to help you feel better. Their presence by your side is meant to be protective.
Sleeping in Your Bed
A dog that chooses to sleep in your bed wants to be close to you, indicating a significant level of trust and contentment, as sleeping is a vulnerable time for them. Sharing this space is one of the ultimate signs of affection.
Checking in on Walks
During walks, a dog that frequently checks in or looks back at you is showing it cares about your presence and guidance. This shows they consider you a leader and are reassured by your proximity. It’s also a sign of a well-trained and attentive dog.
Leaning on You
When a dog leans against you, it’s often seeking comfort or reassurance from someone it loves. This physical contact shows trust and contentment when they feel safe enough to put their weight on you. Consider this leaning as a big hug from your furry friend.
Eye Contact
Soft eye contact from your dog is a strong indicator of trust and love. When your dog holds eye contact, it releases oxytocin in both your brains, which strengthens your bond. This loving stare, devoid of aggression, is a true sign they see you as family.
Excited Greetings
An unmistakable sign of love is how excited your dog gets when you return home, no matter how long you’ve been gone. This joyous greeting, complete with a wagging tail and eager barks, shows they’ve missed you. Dogs who are indifferent to their owners’ comings and goings may lack a strong emotional connection.
Showing Their Belly
When a dog shows you its belly, it’s displaying vulnerability and trust, as the belly is a dog’s most unprotected area. This posture means they are comfortable enough around you to expose themselves in this way. Belly rubs are a bonus that most dogs love.
Calm Demeanor When You Leave
A dog that remains calm when you leave the house feels secure in your relationship and trusts that you will return. While some anxiety is normal, especially in younger dogs, excessive distress can be a sign of insecurity.
Protecting You
If your dog positions itself between you and strangers or stands alert, it’s acting out of protective instinct because it cares. This behavior shows they are invested in your safety and consider you as part of their pack. While protective behavior should be monitored to ensure it doesn’t become overprotective, it’s often coming from a place of love.
Responsive to Your Emotions
Dogs that are highly responsive to their owner’s emotions are displaying deep emotional connections. They can sense mood changes and will often react to try to improve your mood. This sensitivity is a clear indicator of their bond with you.
Yawning With You
Yawning is contagious among humans and dogs alike; if your dog yawns after you do, it’s a sign of empathy and attunement to your feelings. This shared behavior is a subtle yet powerful indication of connection.
Watching You Leave Peacefully
A dog that watches you leave through the window calmly and without distress shows they are secure in your relationship. This indicates they trust you’ll return and feel safe in their environment while you’re gone. It’s a sign of a confident and loving pet.
Wiggling Eyebrows
Dogs often move their eyebrows and ears to express various emotions. If your dog’s eyebrows wiggle when they see you, it’s a sign of recognition and affection. This facial movement helps communicate their feelings and shows they are happy to see you.
Patiently Waiting
A dog that waits patiently for you to wake up or come home demonstrates respect and affection. They value your presence and are willing to wait calmly for your attention. This patience is a testament to their loyalty and love for you.
Snuggling
A snuggling dog seeks physical closeness to stay connected with you, providing warmth and comfort to both. If your dog often snuggles up next to you on the couch or in bed, it’s a clear sign they love and trust you deeply.
