7 Ways Dogs Show That They Love You

7 Ways Dogs Show That They Love You

We show affection to our dogs by petting them, hugging them or giving them a belly rub. Sometimes, we also tell them the words “I love you” while looking at their eyes lovingly. However, have we wondered how our beloved furry friend show affection to us? What

Fortunately, dogs know how to communicate these things. We just have to look for the clues from nose to tail. Dogs use their body to convey their message to us. In order to know if your dog loves you, continue reading.

Holds Eye Contact With You

Long, sustained eye contact is reserved for people we love, trust, and feel safe with. When someone makes us feel uncomfortable, unsafe or threatened, we will not stare deeply into their eyes. The same goes for our furry friends.

The same goes for dogs. Most of us know that we should not gaze into dogs eyes because it is a sign of intimidation to them and they might get aggressive. Maintaining eye contact isn’t just a useful tool while you’re training your dog–it can help you create a deep bond, too. Did you know? when your dog looks at you, its brain releases oxytocin. Known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is the same hormone mothers’ brains release when they’re first bonding with their babies.

The key is to maintain natural eye contact while you’re playing or cuddling. If you force eye contact with your dog, it’ll probably get a little uncomfortable and look away.

Leans Against You

Like maintaining eye contact, you’re probably not going to lean up against someone you don’t know or trust–and neither will your dog.

Whether you’re sitting on the floor or couch, if your dog leans against you, it means it feels safe, secure, and totally comfortable. Sometimes dogs will lean against their humans when they’re feeling scared or anxious, but that only means it sees you as its protector.

Sleeps in Your Bedroom

If you don’t allow your dog to sleep in your bed, but it still likes to sleep in your bedroom, it really loves you. Why? Wanting to be close to you while you’re sleeping signals that it’s totally loyal and doesn’t want to be separated from the pack.

(And if you’re not going to allow it in the bed, why not invest in a super comfy dog bed? Check our store at www.puppiesgear.com)

Gets Happy When You Get Home

Does your dog jump up and down, lick your hands and face, bring you its favorite toy or even “excited pee” a little bit when you get home from work, school, or errands? Yep, it’s absolutely thrilled to see you! And, chances are, you’re very excited to see your pup, too.

Checks up on You

More independent dogs may not always be right at your side or curled around your feet, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t love you. If your dog “checks in” on you from another room, during a walk, or in a new environment, it’s making sure you’re nearby.

Seekis Physical Contact

You’ve probably read that dogs hate being hugged; one study actually claimed to prove it. But in reality, this “study” was based on observations by a single researcher and was not found in any hard science.

The truth? Dogs actually love physical affection and often seek it out from their favorite people.

We’re not saying you should pick up your dog and give it a super tight bear hug. Rather, pets, cuddles, leans, and maybe even gentle hugs are strong signals that you and your dog are truly bonded.

Brings You Its Favorite Toy

If your dog brings you its favorite toy, it doesn’t just mean it wants to play—although wanting to play is a major sign of puppy love, too. As your pup’s pack leader, it’s presenting its most prized, most beloved possession to you. Talk about an honor, huh?