While scientists are still cautious about using the word "love" to describe dogs' emotions, years of research into animal behaviour have only confirmed what we dog parents already knew: our dogs truly love us.
By using MRI scans to study canine brain activity, neurologist Dr. Gregory Berns discovered that when dogs experience something positive, their caudate nucleus - a brain region associated with pleasure and social rewards - becomes active. The caudate nucleus is similarly central to human experience - further indicating that dogs' feelings aren't radically different from our own.
But while their brains may be similar, dogs express love in their own unique ways. And what better time to explore these signs than in February - a.k.a the month of love? 💕
Eye Contact
While prolonged eye contact with unfamiliar people and animals is often perceived as a sign of dominance or even a threat, when it comes to their favourite human, soft, relaxed eye contact is a powerful display of trust and affection.
Research shows that when dogs gaze into their humans’ eyes, both experience a boost of oxytocin - the same “love hormone” that strengthens bonds between human parents and their babies.
So, if you regularly find your dog looking at you with soft, gentle, and relaxed eye contact, take it as a sign they feel safe, secure, and deeply connected to you.
Tail Wagging
It’s often said that dogs wag their tails with their hearts - and it turns out it's more than just a popular anecdote!
While tail wagging is not always a sign of happiness, a loose, full-body wag - one that makes their whole backside sway - is a sure sign of excitement and love.
So, if your dog’s tail starts wagging wildly the moment they see you, it’s their way of saying, "You're my favourite human!"
Sleeping Near You
As descendants of wolves, dogs are instinctively drawn to sleep near those they trust.
Whether they curl up at your feet, rest their head on your lap, or snuggle under the covers (Vivienne and Trixie, I’m looking at you 👀), it’s their way of saying, "I feel safe with you."
Even if your dog prefers their own bed, choosing to sleep in the same room as you still speaks volumes. In the wild, dogs sleep close to their pack for warmth and protection, and this behaviour carries over into their bond with humans.
Excited Greetings
Regardless of if you’ve been away for five minutes or five hours, if your dog greets you with excited jumps, happy tail wags, or joyful barking, it’s a clear sign of love. When they see you, they experience an oxytocin rush, reinforcing their emotional bond with you.
Some dogs may even bring their favourite toy when they greet you, offering you their prized possession as a sign of trust.
"Velcro Behaviour"
It's often said that behind every strong woman is a dog that follows her to the bathroom - and it turns out there's a good reason for that!
If your fur baby often feels more like a four-legged shadow, even when you’re simply moving from room to room, it’s a sign that they feel so bonded to you that they want to be around you at all times.
Some breeds are more prone to this behaviour than others, but in general, if your dog is almost constantly by your side, it means they feel safest when you’re nearby.
Licking (A.K.A Doggy Kisses)
For dogs, licking is a sign of nurturing and care. It’s also a way to soothe themselves as it releases oxytocin, helping them feel connected to you.
So, if your dog regularly licks your face, hands, or even your feet (Trixie’s personal favourite 🙈), they’re not just looking for attention - they’re showing genuine affection.
Sharing Their Toys
If your dog is anything like Trixie, they’ll rarely be found without a toy in their mouth!
But bringing these toys to you isn’t always an indication they want to play - sometimes, it’s their way of sharing something special with you. If your pup drops their favourite toy at your feet, it’s a sign they trust you enough to share their prized possession.
For dogs, play is also a form bonding, and offering a toy as an invitation to engage with them is a clear sign of their love for you. Even if they’re not toy-motivated, they may still instigate play in other ways - like jumping up and “bowing” or pretending to run away from you when you put their lead on!
Recognising Your Name
One of my favourite things about the film, Lady and the Tramp, is how the dogs refer to Jim Dear and Darling by their pet names - and it seems it's not too far from the truth!
A truly devoted dog doesn’t just respond to their own name - they respond to yours too! Many dogs perk up when they hear their human’s name mentioned, even if they’re not in the room.
As with Jim Dear and Darling, this might not be your actual name - if, for example, you’re commonly referred to as “Mum” or “Dad” around the house, your pup will likely associate those words with you instead.
Showing Their Belly
A dog exposing their belly is one of the ultimate signs of trust.
In the wild, this is a vulnerable position, so if your pup lies on their back near you, they’re not just looking for tummy rubs (although, let’s be honest, we’re more than happy to oblige) - they’re showing that they trust you.
Final Thoughts: Love in Every Wag & Wiggle
They say actions speak louder than words, and when it comes to our dogs, this couldn’t be more true!
Unlike us, they don’t need grand gestures or special occasions to show how much they care. Whether they’re following us from room to room, sharing their favourite toy, or simply choosing to sleep nearby, every small action is a testament to their love.
And perhaps the best way to show them love in return is simply to be present - offering them the same trust, devotion, and companionship that makes our bond with dogs so special in the first place.
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