From giving them special treats and taking them on long walks to playing fetch, there are so many ways we show our dogs we love them every day. But have you ever wondered what your pet thinks of you?
It’s only natural to question what exactly they’re thinking and if they’re happy – especially considering how long they can spend just staring into your eyes. If you’re after some reassurance, Axel Lagercrantz, pet behaviourist and CEO of Pets4Homes, has explained the key signs to look for that show your dog really loves you. “One of the great things about dogs is that their love is simple and unconditional,” he said.
“They don’t overthink relationships the way humans do, they just show how they feel through their behaviour. While every dog has its own personality, there are a few key ways they commonly express love and attachment.
“One clear sign is eye contact. If your dog looks at you with a soft, relaxed gaze, it’s not just a random habit, it’s actually a bonding mechanism.
“When dogs and their owners share eye contact, both experience a release of oxytocin, the same hormone that strengthens social bonds between humans, making it a sign of deep trust and affection.
Explaining a second common sign your dog loves you, he continued: “Another way dogs show love is by choosing to be close to you. Whether they lean against you, follow you from room to room, or settle next to you when you sit down, this is their way of saying they feel safe and connected. Dogs are naturally social animals, and their instinct is to stay close to those they trust.”
The expert continued: “Bringing you their favourite toy is another strong signal of affection. While it might seem like they’re just asking for a game, it’s also a gesture of trust, they’re sharing something valuable with you.
“Some dogs even present their toys without expecting you to throw them, which is an even stronger sign of attachment.
“Finally, dogs are incredibly in tune with human emotions. If they sense you’re feeling down, they may quietly sit beside you, rest their head on you, or even nudge you as a way of offering comfort.
“Dogs can read human emotions remarkably well and often adjust their behavior accordingly, which is a big part of why the human-dog bond is so special.
“Ultimately, dogs don’t love in complicated ways – they just show it through their actions, and if you pay attention, you’ll see plenty of small but meaningful signs of just how much they care.”
