While owners fawn over their pooches, meeting all their needs and pandering to their every whim, dogs also have distinct ways of showing their humans that they love them.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your beloved Border Collie or gorgeous Golden Retriever has genuine affection for you – and not simply the delicious treats that are on tap – a vet has highlighted 10 behaviours that indicate your dog really loves you.
Natasha Watson, a vet at Vetfone – a company which provides round the clock support for pet owners via telephone or video call – explained: ‘Dogs have a unique way of expressing their love and affection.
‘From wagging their tails to giving you gentle cuddles, their actions speak volumes. They are very social animals who are great at understanding human emotions and will often learn to mirror them.
‘By recognising the signs your dog shows to let you know just how much they adore you, you can deepen your bond with your furry companion.’ Read below for the 10 signs that show your dog loves you:
1. A waggy tail greeting
While dogs use their tail to communicate many different emotions, a slightly upright side-to-side slow wag may indicate happiness and contentment, according to Natasha.
If your dog greets you when you walk in the room with this kind of happy tail wag, that’s a clear sign that they love you and are happy to see you.
And if you get a ‘helicopter’ tail – where a dog’s tail moves in a rapid, circular motion – then they are more than a little excited to see you.
From wagging their tail in a certain way to making eye contact, dogs have distinct ways of showing their humans that they love them, according to the vet (stock photo)
2. Eye contact
Dogs that feel trust and affection toward their owners often make prolonged eye contact.
Research has found that when a dog looks at you, it can trigger the release of oxytocin, the ‘love hormone,’ in both the dog and the owner. So, when your dog looks at you with gentle eyes, it’s a clear sign of their love.
3. They present you with toys
According to research carried out by Tesco Insurance, 31 per cent of dog owners report that their pup shares their toys with them.
Most dogs are good judges of character so if your furry companion brings you a toy to play with, then it is a sign that you have reached an unconditional level of trust and love with them.
4. Being close
Dogs will cuddle in and lean on people they feel comfortable with.
In fact, 39 per cent of dog owners report that their pup will shower them with cuddles and kisses – and this rises to 41 per cent when owners are upset.
This is because cuddles bring back feelings of maternal closeness and release pheromones that soothe the dog.
5. They follow you
If your dog follows you from room to room, they’re likely showing affection.
Dogs also show affection by following their owners, according to vet Natasha Watson (stock photo)
This behaviour signifies that they want to be near you and, since dogs are naturally pack animals, it’s a sign of attachment or loyalty. Whilst this can be cute, your dog should still be able to have some alone time.
6. Protectiveness
Dogs are naturally protective of those they love. Natasha explains that if your dog shows signs of guarding you or their home, it can be a sign of affection. They want to keep you safe and are demonstrating loyalty and love.
7. ‘Talking’ to you
Dogs communicate with their owners in various ways, and vocalisations are one of them, according to vet Natasha Watson.
While some breeds are more vocal than others, many dogs will ‘talk’ to their owners with barks or whines to get attention or express emotions.
If your dog barks or makes sounds when they see you or during moments of excitement, it could be a sign of love and attachment.
8. Jumping up
While jumping up can sometimes be seen as a sign of excitement or a way to get attention, it’s also a common way dogs show affection.
When your dog jumps on you, they may simply be expressing their joy at seeing you or seeking closeness.
Similarly, almost half (45 per cent) of dog owners say their furry companion sits on them when they want attention.
Jumping up can sometimes be seen as a sign of excitement or a way to get attention, but it’s also a common way dogs show affection (stock photo)
9. Recall and training
Natasha says that dogs that respond well to recall and commands are often eager to please their owners. Their willingness to obey shows trust and a desire to make you happy.
Training strengthens your bond as dogs enjoy the positive reinforcement and the satisfaction of making you proud.
Your dog wants to please you as well as receive their reward so next time they come back when called, give them an extra special ear rub.
10. Mirroring your emotions
Dogs are remarkably empathetic creatures. If your dog mirrors your emotions, it’s a sign they love you.
Natasha points out that they may sense when you’re upset or happy and adjust their behaviour accordingly.
For instance, if you’re feeling down, your dog might come and sit by you or offer comfort.
