Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could speak in dog language and have a full-blown conversation to tell them how much we love them? And know that they understand us?
While you can say it directly to them (and they may just tilt their head and look back with confusion), there are other ways to say ‘I love you’ in dog language that will actually convey how much they mean to you.
Here are 5 of them:
#1 Stare (at the right time…)
Long eye contact at the wrong time can be perceived as a threat but if your pooch is calm and initiates a long stare with you, it’s their way of saying “I trust you and I love you”.
So, why not reciprocate by taking a quiet moment to stare back and enjoy the ‘love hormone’, Oxytocin, that’s released in both of you! Cuttteeeeeeeeee.
#2 Walk & talk
‘Walkies’ is the perfect time to bond with your pooch and let them know how much you love them. Share some lovely memories together by visiting your favourite spots and sharing time together.
And, talking to your doggo as you trot is a bonus! Research has shown that dogs feel happier and calmer when they hear their human’s familiar voice, so why not strike up a conversation as you walk?
#3 Raise those brows
A study by Azabu University in Japan found that doggos raise their eyebrows – especially the left one – when they are greeted by their most loved humans. When strangers approached them, however, they’d respond with the twitch of an ear.
The science behind it? The right side of the brain controls the left side of the face and it just so happens that the right side of the brain also controls emotions. So, in other words, when your doggo sees you and is happy, the left side of the face is stimulated too.
To show your dog that you love them, try to be expressive with your eyebrows, particularly when you greet them. If you’re talented enough to raise just your left brow, that’s even better!
#4 Scratch their ears
Do you ever scratch your doggo’s ears and feel them really pressing their head into your hand? That’s a surefire way to show them how much you love them. Dogs’ ears are packed with nerves and a good ear scratch releases the ‘happy hormone’ endorphins.
So, what’re you waiting for? Find that sweet spot and get scratchin’!
#5 Learn their love language
Knowing how your dog is feeling and reacting appropriately is a great way to show him that you love him. You may not speak the same language but your pooch’s body language can tell you all you need to know!
Read our tips on how to read dog body language and you’ll be ready to play when he’s playful or comfort when he’s sad.
…And finally, the most important way to show them you love them in dog language:
Perhaps the one that’ll get their tail wagging most of all – Book a Mad Paws dog walk to break up their day, and come home to a happy, relaxed furry friend. They’ll LOVE you for it!
