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Writer's pictureVictoria

Do dogs really love us? Exploring the Bonds Between Dogs and Humans

Updated: Jan 5

Do dogs really love us

The relationship between humans and dogs is one of the oldest and most profound connections in the history of domestication. Over centuries, dogs have evolved from wild canines into loyal companions, earning the reputation of "man's best friend."


The question of whether dogs really love us is one that has intrigued pet owners, researchers, and dog enthusiasts alike. Let's delve into the fascinating world of canine emotions to explore the depth of the bond between dogs and their human companions.


Learning the meaning behind the things your dog does can be complicated. How do you tell what your dog is saying when it doesn’t even speak the same language? Luckily, there are plenty of visual signs that your dog actually loves you. Here are a few.


Do dogs really love us......HEre are some tell-"Tail" signs your dog actually loves you


Your dog will never write you a letter or come up and hug you as they tell you how much they love you. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t doing similar things to show affection. Nicole Ellis, a certified dog trainer with Rover, says there are plenty of signs you can look for that prove your dog loves you. Most of them are something you see every day


One of the most common signs your dog loves you is tail wagging – something dogs do almost all the time. Sure, dogs wag their tails whenever they’re happy. But, if your dog wags its tail when you enter the room, you’ve got a companion that wants you to know it loves you. Science says having a dog helps us live longer, so you’ll see a lot of tail wags over the years.


Another easy-to-see sign that your dog loves you is when they signal for affection. You can tell that a dog loves you whenever they try to get affection. This can come in the form of signaling for belly rubs, regular pets, or even parking to get your attention. If your dog actively tries to get your attention, that’s a sign that it loves you.

Excited to see you and doggy kisses


Another easy one to pick up on is when your dog gets excited to see you. If you own a dog, chances are you’ve come home from a trip to the grocery store and been greeted by wide eyes and excited dances. If your dog acts like this when you enter a room or seems genuinely excited to see you, you’ve got a dog that loves you.


Dog kisses can also be another great sign that your dog loves you. Yes, dog slobber isn’t always a great feeling on your cheek, but if your dog greets you with kisses, you can rest easy knowing that your best friend loves you with all its heart.


Sleeping close to you and being vulnerable


Have you ever awakened in the middle of the night to find your dog sleeping soundly beside your side of the bed? Sure, it might be a bit inconvenient for those nighttime bathroom trips, but this is another great sign that your dog loves you. Ellis says that sleeping or relaxing near you is a dog’s way of showing they can’t stand to sleep away from you.


Dogs, like people, have to trust someone to be vulnerable with them. One of the primary ways that dogs show their vulnerability and trust in a person is to roll over. If your dog does this, it’s a good sign that it loves you.


Additionally, dogs will often check in on the people they love. Sometimes that means coming up to you during a work call. Other times, it might mean waiting at the bathroom door to you to come out. These are signs that your dog loves you and wants to ensure you’re okay.


Eye contact and gifts are other great signs your dog loves you

Ever had your dog bring you a toy or drop a dirty sock at your foot? Well, one of two things is happening. Either your dog is asking to play or it’s delivering the item as a gift. Either way, both are signs that your dog loves you and wants you to be involved in its life. So, next time your dog drops the ball at your feet, give it a toss. They’ll love you even more for that.


Finally, one of the last easy-to-read signs that your dog loves you is if they make eye contact. Ellis notes that Nervous dogs don’t trust their owners yet will have a hard time making eye contact. But, if you’ve worked with your companion a while, and they trust you, they’ll have no problem meeting your eyes and holding that gaze. And what a loving gaze they can offer, too.


The question of whether dogs truly love us is one that may not have a definitive answer in the human sense of the word. However, the emotional connection, loyalty, and affection displayed by dogs towards their human family members are undeniable. The unique bond forged between humans and dogs transcends language and cultural barriers, creating a relationship that is rich in companionship and mutual understanding.


As dog owners, we are fortunate to experience the joy and comfort that comes from sharing our lives with these remarkable animals.

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