Dogs have long been known as humankind’s best friends, and the bond between dogs and their owners is nothing short of extraordinary.
Research by Canine Cottages shows that a dog’s heart rate increases by 46.2% when being told “I love you”. This backs up what dog lovers have always felt in their hearts—our canine companions truly do love us.
With Valentine’s Day approaching, to help dog owners better understand their furry friends’ expressions of love, Dr. Emma Scales-Theobald, Canine Behaviourist and resident dog expert at Canine Cottages, explains the gestures that mean “I love you” in dog language, from telling tail wags to heartfelt cuddles.
Key Signs Your Dog Loves You:
Nudging you – If you stop giving them attention, some dogs will nudge your hand or arm with their nose to encourage more petting or cuddles. This is their way of saying “Don’t stop!” A nudge can be playful, persistent, or gentle, depending on their personality. Responding positively to these nudges reassures them that their affection is reciprocated.
Sitting on or near you – Dogs are social creatures, and being close to you—even without direct contact—shows their trust and affection. For some dogs, sitting on your lap is their ultimate display of love, while others may prefer to lie nearby. Watch for their choice of proximity, as this often reflects their comfort level and love for you.
Leaning into you – When dogs lean into you, they’re looking for closeness and security. This behaviour often occurs when they’re seeking reassurance or simply enjoying the physical connection. A dog sitting on your feet might also be a sign of affection and a subtle way of ‘claiming’ you as theirs.
Belly rubs* – Dogs that roll onto their backs and expose their bellies are showing a high level of trust and affection. A wagging tail and relaxed posture typically mean they’re asking for a belly rub as a sign of love. *However, if their ears are pinned back, tail tucked, or body tense, they may be showing submission or anxiety rather than seeking affection. Always read the entire body language for context.
Following you – A dog that loves you will want to be near you, often following you from room to room. This behaviour, sometimes called ‘Velcro dog syndrome’, is especially common in breeds with strong loyalty traits. It’s their way of saying “You’re my person, and I want to be where you are.”
Sharing their toys – When dogs bring you their toys, they’re not just inviting you to play; they’re also sharing something valuable to them. This behaviour is a sign of trust and affection, particularly in breeds like Labradors or Golden Retrievers. Celebrate this gesture by engaging in play or praising them for their generosity.
Asking you to play – The ‘play bow’—lowered front end, raised hindquarters, wagging tail—is a universal invitation to have fun. When a dog does this, they’re expressing excitement and joy in your presence. Responding with play strengthens your bond and keeps your dog mentally and physically stimulated.
Jumping up at you* – Jumping is a natural way for dogs to greet people they love. It allows them to get closer to your face, which is their way of connecting. *While it’s an affectionate gesture, jumping can be unsafe, especially with large dogs or small children. Training your dog to greet calmly ensures their affection is expressed appropriately.
Sleeping on or near you – Dogs are most vulnerable when sleeping, so choosing to rest near you shows they feel completely safe and comfortable. Some dogs may snuggle on your lap, while others prefer sleeping just outside your reach. Either way, this behaviour is a testament to their love and trust.
Licking you* – Many dogs will lick you as a sign that they love you. Licking releases endorphins and dopamine, making them feel happy and relaxed. However, if they do it obsessively, it could be a sign they are in pain. *Licking isn’t always a sign of love and could be a sign of anxiety. Watch the dog’s other body language to tell the difference. They are anxiously licking if their ears are back, they’re showing whale eye, and they are tense .
Dr. Emma emphasises the importance of paying attention to body language to differentiate between loving gestures and signs of stress or unease.
“Understanding your dog’s behaviour can deepen your bond and help you respond to their emotional needs,” says Dr. Emma. “Knowing the difference between affection and stress signals ensures you’re tuned into their well-being.”
Shannon Keary from Canine Cottages also adds “If you’d like to show your dog love this Valentine’s Day through a trip away, these are the perfect last-minute getaways to take with your furry friend.”
