How to understand that a dog loves and understands you: 9 signs of affection
If you have a dog, you definitely want to reciprocate. Understanding certain behavioral patterns can help determine the level of comfort and attachment your pet has to you. SSPDaily told you about nine signs that your dog loves you.
Devoted presence
A clear manifestation of affection is that your dog follows you wherever you go in the house. This shows that he is at ease and happy in your company.
Gentle eye contact
A deep look into your dog's eyes can reveal his affection for you. If the gaze remains calm, kind and gentle, it indicates trust. In the hierarchy of the dog pack, direct eye contact means dominance or trust. Therefore, your dog's ability to maintain eye contact reflects respect and trust in you.
Constant interest
A loving dog is always interested in keeping an eye on his owner. He may often enter the room where you are for no reason, look forward to your return at the door, and regularly look back at you while walking.
This behavior will also help you identify your favorite family member if you live in a large family. Pay attention to who the dog looks at most often during walks. It is likely that this person has a special place in his heart.
A source of comfort
When your dog is frightened by sudden noises or meets a person with a large bag, does he look to you for comfort? This behavior indicates that your dog trusts you and feels at ease with you. However, remember that not all dogs seek comfort in the same way. Some of them may prefer solitude and non-physical affection when they are stressed.
Saves your scent
It may seem unpleasant that your dog often sleeps on your things or drools on your slippers, but it's actually a great sign of affection. It indicates that your dog loves your scent and can distinguish it from others to show his love.
Enthusiastic greetings
When your dog greets you after a long absence by barking and jumping on you, it's a clear expression of affection. However, if he shows indifference upon your return, it indicates that you are not his main object of attention. In addition, sociable dogs can show equal joy to any visitor, as they naturally extend their warmth to everyone who enters the house.
Shared bedding
If your dog prefers to sleep next to you rather than alone, this is a clear indicator of his love. The family member he sleeps with most often is likely the closest to his heart.
The desire to please
Although dogs can obey commands from different people, if he responds quickly and enthusiastically to your instructions, it indicates that he wants to please you. However, refusing to obey a command does not mean that your furry friend does not love you.
Imitation of remorse
Dog trainers say that dogs are not capable of feeling real guilt or shame because these emotions are too complex for their cognitive abilities. However, they do mimic the expression of guilt or shame when caught in the act. This pantomime serves as a calming strategy to reconcile with a disgruntled owner, a testament to his or her care and concern for you.
However, experts warn against frequently shaming your dog, especially for past misdeeds. The animal may not fully understand the reason for the reprimand, and as a result, it may experience significant stress.