6 Surprising Ways Your Dogs Show They Love You

There's nothing not to love about dogs. They're loyal, cuddly, and bring their so much joy into any home. They’re always there for you and they love us more than they love themselves! Showing our love and affection for them can be as easy as a belly rub, treat, or snuggle session on the couch but do you ever wonder how your dog shows you they love you? We’ve rounded up some behaviours and signs that may surprise you!

They rub their faces on people they adore

If your dog does this to you, it might potentially be marking you as theirs! This is a common sign of affection that dogs show.

They make eye contact with you

Eye contact is an intimate act. To many dogs, this displays trust and affection. If your dog makes eye contact with you frequently, it shows that they’re showing a high level attachment. When your dog looks at you, it releases oxytocin in their brain, the same hormone that helps newborn babies bond with their mothers. 

Note: An affectionate stare is different from a threatening eye contact. We do recommend starting a stare-down with a nervous or aggressive dog as it could trigger them.

Leaning

An adorable way of showing their love - the lean. If your dog ever comes up to you and leans its whole weight on your leg, it is actually showing its love for you! It may also mean it is feeling anxious, wants something, looking for a cuddle or some extra comfort. Whatever the reason is, leaning against you makes your dog feel safe and secure, and it's another way of showing their love.

Stays Calm When You Leave the House

Although most dogs hate it when you leave them to go out, if your dog stays calm when you leave the house, it is a subtle way of showing their love by trusting that you will return home.

Smiling

Dogs can smile? Yes they can. If you ever thought your dog was smiling at you, well, you are not imagining it! Your dog’s open and relaxed mouth (or smile!) is a sign that your dog is happy and affectionate.

They will nose-nudge you

Does your dog ever come up and nudge you with their nose? This can also be a sign of affection and a way for your dog to say “Hey, I like you!”.  Of course, nose-nudging is also a way for dogs to seek attention, or to let you know you’re in their way. You’ll know your dog is expressing affection if the nose-nudge is accompanied by a soulful stare, or leads to more full-body contact.

Although the way our furry friends show their love is different from ours, there are similarities. When a canine shows their love, it’s genuine, unconditional and forever. Some of the ways dogs show they love you are obvious – but some are more subtle and may surprise you.

Do you want to learn more about the temperaments of different dog breeds? More information may be found here! 

Tags: Dog Behaviours