A wagging tail usually indicates that a dog is happy and loves us, but that is just one of many cute ways a dog shows affection!
A dog may not always show the obvious signs; however, it has many more adorable ways to say “I love you.” It can lean on you, give you its favorite toy, or even run around with one of your socks as if it’s a prized possession.
The body language of dogs tells us how they feel. Sometimes they are very obvious, and sometimes very subtle. It’s not always so easy to understand, but there are clues that show you when that furry face feels safe, happy, and full of love.
In this blog, we’ve rounded up 7 common signs of affection that dogs show so you know exactly when your pet is saying, “I love you.”
1. Holding Eye Contact
For humans, gazing intently into each other’s eyes is considered one of the most profound gestures of love, and the same holds true for dogs, too.
To show that he trusts, feels safe with, and loves you, your dog will subtly gaze into your eyes longer than any casual glance.
For your dog to build that “I trust you” moment, maintain eye contact during their training to develop a deeper bond. In fact, when the dog looks at a person, oxytocin is released into the dog’s brain. Referred to as the “love hormone” in dogs, it’s the very same hormone ‘Mothers’ brains release while first bonding with their babies.
2. Leaning Against You
If you try to lean on someone you don’t know or trust, it just feels awkward, right? It’s the same for your furry friend! Dogs only lean on the people they truly feel safe and comfy with.
If your dog leans against you while you’re sitting down on the floor or couch, it symbolizes that your dog feels safe and secure with you and is comfortable enough to solicit some petting or attention.
There are times when dogs will lean against their people when they feel scared or anxious; in this case, it may be a gesture symbolizing that they regard you as a protector.
3. Sleeping in Your Bedroom
If you don’t let your dog sleep in your bed, but they still curl up to sleep in your bedroom, it’s a sign that they really are attached to you. This speaks a lot about their loyalty and how much they enjoy being beside you.
(And if you are not exactly into bedtime snuggles, a dog bed that is also soft and snuggly will make a great substitute!)
4. They’re Are Super Excited When You Get Back Home
Does your furry friend jump up and down, lick your face and hands, bring you their favourite toys, or even do a little “excited peeing” after they get to greet you when you have been away from home?
Yep, that shows how over-the-top they are to see you after so long.
5. They Carry Your Shoes and Stinky Socks Around
Most dogs who are attached to their owners love the scent of their owners, to the extent that you might find them stealing your stinky socks, T-shirts, or even underwear, shoe piles or laundry baskets.
Stealing shoes and dirty clothes may not always be the best thing, especially when your dog has a habit of chewing on everything. However, inappropriate chewing can be avoided by keeping your dog occupied with engaging toys or safe chew toys.
6. They Check Up on You
Not all dogs are clingy, and that is fine! Some like their space, yet love you just as much. When your dog sticks its nose in from another room or glances back at you during a walk, it is like saying, “Just making sure you’re still there!”
7. Snuggling and Cuddling
Your dog may not be the type to give tight hugs, but they do enjoy being close to you.
Resting their head on your lap, leaning softly on you, or curling into a puppy cuddle- all those are affectionate touches that basically tell you, “Buddy, I feel safe with you and attached to you.”
Conclusion
Dogs never use words, but you can feel their affection and love toward you with every nuzzle, wag, and cuddle.
The more we understand their sweet gestures of love, the better we understand how deeply our furry friends adore us every single day, every single minute.
