There’s no greater feeling in the world than that of knowing you’re loved. When you have the privilege of having a best friend with four paws, a wet nose, and a slobbery tongue, there are few forms of friendship that provide the same feelings.
Though dogs can’t speak, they still say “I Love You” in other ways. If your dog does any of these things, then you know that he or she loves you more than you will ever know. Some of them are obvious, but maybe you didn’t know some of these other behaviors are actually your dog showing love for you.
1/ Eyebrow Lifting and Wiggling
There are subtle cues that can be seen on your dog’s face that can indicate how much she loves you. This is particularly true for the dog’s eyebrows. In a recent study in Japan, dogs were introduced to their owner, a stranger, a toy, and something they didn’t like. Observers compared behavior in response to each stimulus. Far more eyebrow and ear activity was observed in response to their owners and the dog toy that they liked. On the other hand, the same dogs were more reserved around strangers and toys they weren’t fond of.
2/ Tail & Butt Wagging
A dog’s tail is one of its most useful appendages for expression. You’re probably already aware that a wagging tail can indicate excitement, but pay special attention to how your dog wags his tail. If your dog wiggles his whole butt, or if his tail wags and sweeps in a circular motion, you know your dog is truly enamored to see you.
3/ Following You Around The House
You know your dog is your best friend when she follows you as closely as your shadow. If she is always near you while you perform errands around the house or in the yard, you know your dog can’t stand to be away from you. Who needs alone time when you have a best dog friend?
4/ Licking Your Face
If your dog gently licks your face, you know he is trying to demonstrate how solid his bond is with you. This can be especially true if your dog is generally conservative about giving out kisses. However, even dogs that love us may be sneaking some spaghetti sauce off of your face, on occasion!
5/ Sleeping In Bed With You
Not everyone is a fan of having a dog in bed with them, but knowing this may very well change your mind. Your dog views the bed like the pack den – if he jumps in bed with you, and finds comfort by sleeping near you, then you know that he truly feels like he is a part of the pack. So, let him cuddle up with you!
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6/ Sensitivity To Illness or Sadness
Have you ever gotten the sense that your dog can tell that there’s something wrong? Maybe you had a bad day, or maybe you aren’t feeling well, and your dog seems glued to you a little more tightly, or you find him looking up at you with big, concerned eyes? Well, you aren’t imagining things – your dog can sense that you aren’t at your best, and it concerns him because he loves you.
7/ Leaning
While sitting on you could be a sign that your dog is being somewhat territorial or dominant, there is a more subtle form of physical contact that means something slightly different. If your dog gently leans against you, she may be in need of some petting or a nice scratch behind the ear. She loves you, and is looking for some affirmation. So, take a moment, let life slow down, and have a tender moment with your best friend.
8/ Behavior Changes When You Come And Go
If your dog can sense that your leaving, and becomes reserved, he is anticipating your imminent departure and isn’t too happy about it. Over time, your dog will be able to detect subtle cues that you’re leaving – such as you putting on your shoes or turning off the television.
9/ Bringing You His Favorite Toy
Of course wanting to play is a sign of affection, but this takes things one step further. If your dog has a toy that he is particularly fond of, and you find him bringing it to you, it is because he wants to share his most treasured possession with you.
10/ The Just Know You Love Them, And They Show Love In Return
Have you ever thought that dogs “just know”? Well, you’re right! They most likely can just tell that you love them. So, the more deeply you feel affection for your pooch, the more he or she will show it in return. As the old saying goes (and video below for proof!), you scratch your pup’s back, and she’ll scratch yours!
So, love your dog, and treasure every day together. Just as humans have different ways of expressing their feelings, so do dogs. Some of the very things that you may think your pooch is doing because he is misbehaving, may very well just be signs that he absolutely adores you!
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