Dogs aren’t like humans, where they can say « I love you » with words, but their actions often show it, even if we may not realise it. Most people assume that wagging tails and happy licks are the go-to signs, but there are subtle ways your pup may be showing just how much they adore you.
Luckily, dog experts at Pet MD have revealed five non-obvious signs your dog loves you the most. The expert commented: « Studies suggest that dogs might feel love for their people. While their understanding of love may differ from our own, the underlying mechanisms are remarkably similar. »
5. Raising eyebrows
Dogs have their own way of speaking to us—through facial expressions. According to experts at Pet MD, they actually make more expressions when their human is paying attention, suggesting it’s a deliberate way to communicate.
One of the most obvious signs is the classic doggy smile, which usually means they’re happy and content. Another subtle gesture is the raised inner eyebrow, which can indicate « love. »
« When dogs raise their inner eyebrows, their eyes appear larger and even more puppy-like. Can’t help but say « aww »? Scientists believe this expression is a deliberate attempt to trigger a nurturing response in humans, persuading us to shower them with more attention, » said the expert.
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4. Sharing a bed
« Sleep is a vulnerable time for any animal, but your dog doesn’t feel that way when curled up next to you. Studies indicate that dogs who have a secure relationship with their humans sleep better when they’re close, » shared the dog specialist.
According to Vital Essentials, a survey conducted in 2022 by the American Kennel Club found that 45% of dog parents let their dogs sleep in bed with them at night.
They also noted that sleeping next to your dog is not unhealthy. « Sharing your bed with your pooch at night is no more unhealthy than sharing the sofa with them during the day. Of course, for basic hygiene, you’ll still want to brush your dog frequently and not let them jump on the bed with muddy paws. »
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3. Eye contact
Dogs use eye contact to connect with us in a special way. The expert at PetMD revealed: « A hard stare from a dog can still signal a threat, so give them space if the look is intense, accompanied by stiff body posture, or they’re guarding a resource such as food or a toy.
« However, soft eye contact is a special way pet dogs communicate with us, like how humans connect with each other. What’s more, softly locking eyes with your pooch triggers an oxytocin release, strengthening your special connection. »
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2. Nuzzling
Dogs nuzzling their faces against us is more than just an adorable display of affection; it’s their way of offering comfort and connection. Studies show that this kind of physical contact lowers cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, in both humans and dogs.
Pet boarding service, Charlotte Kennels, also admits that this is a sign of love from your pooch. They said: « In the event that you become angry about something while your dog is there, you shouldn’t be startled if they nuzzles you softly in an effort to console you.
« And if you’re unwell and lie up in bed or on the couch, there’s a strong possibility that they’ll give you regular nuzzle-checks to reassure you and maybe even try to figure out what’s wrong with you by using their nose. This is because they’re concerned about your well-being. »
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1. They will follow you
Dogs sticking close to you isn’t just clinginess; it’s a sign of love. As pack animals, they feel safest near their favourite human.
An expert at the Kennel Club admitted: « Having a constant companion can be comforting, endearing or sometimes downright annoying. »
They continued: « Dogs are incredibly social animals and love to spend time with their owners. You are your dog’s whole world, and being with you is a big part of their life.
« You make them feel happy, secure and safe, and they enjoy spending time with their best friend. Whilst they may not always know the meaning of ‘personal space’, the fact that they want to be around you is really quite a compliment. »
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