For us humans it is easy to show our dogs how much we love them, belly rubs, snuggle time, treats. Those are all ways we show our affection and love for our pets. Have you ever wondered how your dog shows his love and appreciation for you?
Dogs communicate very clearly, if you know what to look for. They use their bodies to let us know how they feel, from nose to tail. Keep reading to learn how our dogs show us their affection.
Nosing
One of the ways your dog shows affection is when he comes up and nudges you with his nose, have you noticed him doing that? That’s a way to say “I like you”. It can also mean that he is looking for attention, or even that you are in his way. If the nose-nudge is followed by a soulful stare or ends on a more full-body contact that’s when you know he is expressing affection and not only that you are on the way.
Eye Contact
For many dogs eye contact is an intimate way to display trust and affection. When your dog maintains eye contact on a regular basis with you, your dog is showing you a high degree of attachment. Their brain releases oxytocin (the hormone that helps new mothers bond with her babies) every time your dog looks at you and your brain does the same thing.
Note: there is a difference between affectionate and threatening eye contact, is not recommended to stare-down at an unknown or nervous dog. Look for opportunities to make and hold eye contact with your dog throughout the day, that will help create trust over time.
Sighing
Sighs and low groans are soft vocalizations that are a sign of contempt, like when she comes over and stretches out next to you letting out a long happy sigh, that means that she feels safe and comfortable by your side.
Licking
Licking equals kissing in dog language, and kissing is an universal sign of affection. Most of the times when your dog licks you, he is just telling you that he likes you too much. It might also be a way to let you know that he respects your authority (and that he loves you) since licking can also be a way to signal lower social status.
Jumping
Jumping might be an annoying way of showing affection and for many people it is a frustrating habit. Remember that for your dog is a loving act of showing you how much he cares. Dogs are drawn to human faces, by jumping, they get closer to it and look closer into your eyes or even reach for your face easier for a welcoming lick.
Leaning
Leaning is the equivalent of a full-body hug for many dogs. Every time your dog comes up to you and leans her full body weight against your legs, she is letting you know she trusts you. A slightly open mouth, soft eyes and a gently wagging tail are all signs of an affectionate lean that is calm and relaxed.
Rolling
When your dog rolls into his back and asks for a belly rub, he is telling you straight up that he really likes you. Rolling over shows a high degree of trust and relaxation reserved only for those that earned it.