5 Signs Your Dog Loves You: Understanding Dog Love Language
As a dedicated pet parent, you spend countless hours doting on your dog, but how can you tell if your furry friend loves you back? Signs your dog loves you can range from overt gestures to more subtle signals. By understanding your dog’s body language, you can distinguish when they’re displaying unconditional love versus simply angling for a treat.
They Seek Out Physical Contact
One of the most common ways dogs show affection is by seeking physical contact. Does your dog like to lean on you? While it may seem like a goofy or lazy tendency, it’s actually a sign of affection. Experts suggest that dogs seek out physical contact with the ones they love, which is why they enjoy doggy piles or why even giant breeds often try to be lap dogs. So, the next time your pup leans on you, lays against you, or rests their chin or paw on your leg, remember that this is their love language.
They Expose Their Belly
Your dog’s underside is their most vulnerable area, and they don’t expose it to just anyone. Typically, dogs only show their bellies when they feel submissive, confident, and secure. This behavior is a sign of comfort, whether your dog is playing with canine pals or enjoying snuggle time at home. An exposed belly is a clear indication that you make your dog feel loved and secure, and they return the sentiment.
They Shower You with Licks
Licking is another common way dogs show affection, although some might find it gross. According to experts, licking is an integral part of canine socialization. Dogs lick one another as an act of affectionate submission or to get another dog’s attention. They engage in the same behavior with humans. If your dog can’t reach your face, they’ll likely settle for any exposed skin, whether it’s your hands, feet, legs, or elbows.
Their Tail Wags, A Lot
Tail wagging is perhaps the most obvious way a dog shows love. There’s nothing more infectious than a dog with a happily wagging tail. While dog tail language can be complex, it’s usually clear when your dog is positively wagging their tail. A vigorous tail wag, often accompanied by a full-body wiggle, is typically a sign of affection and excitement. According to the VCA, dogs tend to wag to the right when they feel happy and affectionate.
They Jump on You
Although jumping up can be an annoying habit, it’s often a sign of adoration. If your dog starts jumping and bouncing when you get home, it’s because they can’t contain their joy that their favorite person is finally back. They’re eager to shower you with all the love and affection they’ve been holding in all day long. While it can be tough to correct this habit, especially when guests are around, most trainers advise waiting until your dog calms down before petting them.
Understanding Your Dog’s Love Language
These are just a handful of the many ways dogs show us how much they love us. Each dog has its own unique body language and mannerisms, so your pup may have additional quirky ways of expressing their love and affection. For instance, some dogs will bring you a favorite toy to throw; others may grunt or howl with joy when you get home. By paying close attention to your dog’s love language, you can better understand how they show their affection.
Janine DeVault is a pet writer, animal rescue advocate, and former celebrity dog walker. She has worked with a variety of pet-industry clients and specializes in writing pet lifestyle content. Janine lives in Canada with her rescue cat, Kesi.
References:
