The human and dog relationship has stood the test of time. We have been together even before history was recorded. But what exactly do our furry companions want to tell us? Dogs communicate in a lot of ways and each dog will act differently. In this listicle, we will take a look at some of the ways our dogs show us their appreciation, undying love, and loyalty. Let’s dive right in.
12. Your Dog Follows You Around
Perhaps the most basic of all signs, dogs have evolved to follow humans around. The reason being, that we were a source of food for them. When early humans hunted, we left behind bones and meat scraps after eating. In return, they would alert us of incoming danger such as predators.
Not much has changed in modern times, our symbiotic relationship with them has become more of an emotional bond. We have become a source of security, stability, and affection.
So when your dog follows you around it isn’t always about food, it’s a sign that they have grown to trust you and they accept you as a member of the pack.
How To Respond: Talk to them in a soothing tone. By acknowledging their presence, it reinforces that you like what they are doing. Praise them when they go up the stairs with you or say “hello” followed by their name when they have just arrived in the kitchen to look for you.
11. They Wait For You At The Door
Have you ever experienced going out for a while only to go home and find out your dog has been waiting patiently by the front door? This is because they are attuned to your presence. Dogs are very observant and are creatures of habit. They memorize your actions at home and they can sense that you’re planning to go out.
Whenever you leave the house your scent weakens in their environment as time passes by. Then, whenever you come back, the sights and smells that go along with you are created, and a dog’s sharp senses pick up on those signals. This tells them that you are near and they are eager to welcome you back home.
How To Respond: Say “hello” to them, followed by their name. Give them head pats or ear scratches. They waited for you, and nothing would reward them better than physical touch and the sound of your voice.
10. Just Chilling Out Or Having A Slumber Party
This is a form of security and companionship for your dog. In the wild, animals stick close to each other to look out for potential danger. It’s no different for our canine friends; when you’re on the couch, they look out for you and are curious about what you are doing.
The same goes for sleeping. They choose a spot near you for security. This gives your dog better access to you if and when it senses something is off during the night. In addition, if you allow them to stay in your bed, you share body heat with them, which keeps both of you warm during snowy or rainy days.
How To Respond: If you’re sitting on the couch, caress them or if they’re on the floor, put your foot against their body. This signals that you’re both safe and that they can relax.
If you are going to bed and your dog has chosen a spot near you, place a piece of your clothing there. This will make them relax more when they sleep because they can smell that you are near. If they’re on the bed with you, caress them gently until they get sleepy. Who would say no to cuddles?
9. They Like Your Stuff
A dog’s sense of smell is a few hundred or thousands of times stronger than ours. It’s their way of learning about their environment. So when a dog grabs your stuff or rolls around in it, it’s because you have your scent there and they’re trying to learn more about you.
How To Respond: Give your pet a piece of clothing, whether it’s a sock or a handkerchief. In this way, he’ll know that you’ve given them the thumbs up to own one of your belongings.
8. They Present You With Their Toys
It’s no secret that dogs are playful creatures, but they can also be possessive of their resources, such as food, water, and toys. When your dog brings you their toy, it’s not just that they want to have playtime, but it’s a “gift” for you. They are showing you what they like and that you can borrow it if you want.
How To Respond: Don’t just grab the toy and throw it away. Examine the object they have given you to show that you appreciate it. Make it squeak if it’s that kind of a toy. Lovingly talk to your dog by saying “thank you” followed by their name, then return it to them gently or you can play fetch with it.
7. They Stare At You And Holds Eye Contact
“Puppy eyes” are only reserved for the people that are important to a dog. When they feel uncomfortable, they will look away instead. This is a way that your dog is telling you, they’re at ease with you, and they’re observing what you’re doing. This goes the opposite way as well. If your dog is observing a stranger it means that he’s wary of an unknown presence and is guarding his and your territory.
How To Respond: Smile at them and talk to them. Dogs can sense emotion. If you express to them that you’re happy when they’re around it gives them a sense of contentment.
6. Tail Wags Are A Good Sign
A dog’s tail position and its motion are communication tools for us and them. A dog hides its tail whenever it feels anxiety, sadness, or fear. When the tail is raised up it’s a sign that your dog is content, curious, or even happy.
When a dog wags his tail, it is a sign of extreme joy or excitement. Depending on how intense the wagging is, shows how much excitement he feels. If he wags it from side to side fast like a fan, it means they can’t hold it in anymore and they need you to acknowledge them by petting them and talking to them.
How To Respond: When your dog begins to get excited, talk to them in a calming manner and caress them with long strokes along their body or scratch their ears. This signals to them that you understand what they are feeling.
5. Asking For Tummy Rubs
A tummy rub is a sign your dog trusts you. The tummy is a vulnerable part of the body as it holds a lot of vital organs, and a dog lying down on his back asking for a tummy rub means that he trusts you and wants affection from you.
It’s also a form of play for our fur babies. They feel ticklish around the rib area just like us and they want you to tickle them. This releases happy hormones for your dog when they shake their legs in response to your touch. It’s their form of laughter.
How To Respond: Don’t ignore your dog, tickle him! This will be a form of bonding for both of you. Knowing that it pleases you to touch them playfully makes them happier and they will ask for more every time.
RELATED: Dog Talking Buttons: Teach Your Dog How To Talk
4. They Rub Against You Or Touch You With Their Paws
It doesn’t matter what your dog’s age is they will do this to you no matter what. Rubbing against you is a sign of affection and a way of marking you with their scent. He’s telling you that they love you.
If your dog touches you with their paws it could mean a lot of things. They could be asking to get your attention, maybe they’re anxious and want you to reassure them, and lastly, they just might want your touch as well. Having any of their body parts on you is a way for them to stay connected.
How To Respond: Acknowledge your dog. Calmly talk to him and give him pats on the head, chest, or back. Your dog might just want that physical connection with you.
3. You’re More Important Than Food
If your dog chooses you for food, you’re the most important thing in his life. Whether he hears your voice calling or sees you across the room and approaches you, he thinks that leaving his meal to get your attention is vital to him.
Remember that not all dogs are the same and you will get different reactions. But if your dog doesn’t leave his bowl, let him finish his meal first and then try getting his attention. A dog loves a little snuggling after a good meal.
How To Respond: Don’t immediately play rough with your pet. Avoid playing fetch, tummy rubs, or playing tag. Just calmly talk to him and give him pats on the head or little rubs around the ears. Say that he’s a good boy for finishing his meal.
2. Zoom Zoom!
When your dog does the zoomies they feel a sudden burst of excitement. They will run around in circles with their tails up in the air and a playful expression on their face. They will do this for a number of things like when you arrive or when you give them attention.
How To Respond: Smile and laugh at his antics. Wait for him to calm down and give him head pats or a hug. Remember, dogs can sense your emotions and if you show them that you’re happy to see them it’s rewarding for them.
RELATED: Decoding Your Dog’s Body Language
1. It’s Slobberin’ Time!
Dogs show love in many ways and licking or “kissing” you is a way to show their affection. In nature, licking is a nurturing and intimate act. A parent licks their young to add their scent to the kids and to keep them clean.
For a dog, it’s a way of telling you that you are part of their family and they want to keep you clean. This act also passes their scent to you, “marking” you as their own.
How To Respond: Hug your dog! This is the most affectionate they can get. Some dog parents even kiss their dog on the forehead or the cheeks. This exchange of intimacy is the best reward to give to any dog. It will strengthen your bond and trust in each other.
From The Club
Having a dog’s unconditional love is priceless. I’ve kept several dogs in my life and each one will always be special to me. If a dog shows affection towards you respond positively in a way that he will understand. This will encourage him to express himself more to you and together you will make beautiful memories you will cherish forever.
