A canine behaviour expert has identified the crucial indicators that your dog adores you. “A dog’s ‘love’ stems from trust, which can be built through the giving of affection and lures such as food and toys, including exercise and play, which can provide an important mental and physical outlet,” Adem Fehmi, dog behaviour specialist at Barking Heads, explained. “This is why a dog will often seem to have a greater attachment to their main care givers over others.”
“This makes sense as these ‘lures’ fulfil their needs as social mammals and many breeds and types of dog have been bred in this modern day to provide us with companionship.”
Seeking your company
He stated the primary indicator to watch for is whether they actively seek your company.
This can manifest in various ways, including welcoming you at the entrance, seeking you out if you’re in another room or cuddling up beside you on the settee during the evening. However, a desire to remain close isn’t always positive, with Adem warning: “If you feel like your dog has become your shadow, this may not be love but in fact a sign that your dog is experiencing anxiety and you should look to seek behavioural advice to help them become a more confident individual.”
Relaxing around you
A second indication your dog loves you is their willingness to relax in your space.
Adem said: “A happy and content dog will be able to fully relax in your presence.
“You may also see them relaxing in more vulnerable positions such as laying on their side or even on their back with their feet in the air. This is a sign that they trust you, which is a key component of love.”
Relaxed body language
Another element to observe is whether your dog displays relaxed body language.
Examples of this include wagging their tail, and wearing a soft expression on their face.
Leaning against you
Similarly, if they lean into you when you pet them, you can interpret this as another sign of affection from your dog.
“Whilst some dogs might not like being touched so much, many will lean back into you when being stroked if they are enjoying the experience and, particularly, if they have a strong bond with you,” Adem said.
Wanting to play
The final indication to watch for is that they enjoy spending time walking or playing with you and may even instigate a play game.
Adem explained: “A dog that is happy to engage with you is a dog who feels secure when you are around.
“Furthermore, instigating play is a way to gain your affection and attention, which can be a key indicator that your dog values your presence.”
