How Do Dogs Show Affection? 11 Ways Dogs Show Affection

Watch for these eleven behaviors that show that your dog loves you:

1. 1. Cuddling: Some dog breeds are more independent than others, but even the most independent breeds enjoy snuggling with their favorite people. Physical contact releases oxytocin, a love hormone, in your dog’s brain. Petting and cuddling strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
2. 2. Following: Dogs are pack animals by nature, and as their provider, you ostensibly become the pack leader. One way dogs express their loyalty is by following you around and looking to you for guidance.
3. 3. Tail wagging: A dog’s tail often reveals their true feelings. When a dog feels happy and affectionate, their tail will wag back and forth.
4. 4. Playing: Playtime is essential for bonding with your furry friend. This includes roughhousing; though aggressive biting, scratching, and barking are not signs of good behavior, a little playful roughhousing can be a way for your dog to show love. Sometimes dogs will bring their owners their favorite toy to play with. They may even bring you a broken toy as a sign of trust.
5. 5. Eye contact: Dogs use body language to say, “I love you.” Eye contact is one way your canine companion will show that they desire your attention.
6. 6. Licking: There are many reasons that dogs lick their pet parents. Dogs may lick to show submission. They may also be grooming you—the same way their mother groomed them when they were a puppy.
7. 7. Nose-nudging: Nuzzling mimics the maternal affection that a dog received as a puppy. It’s a way to get your attention and ask for physical affection.
8. 8. Leaning: Leaning up against you is one of the most subtle ways dogs choose to show affection. Sometimes they may lean their entire body weight into you as a sign that they want to snuggle.
9. 9. Rolling over: Rolling over is a display of affection and submission. It shows that your dog trusts you and feels at ease in your presence. It also can mean they want a belly rub.
10. 10. Jumping: Though jumping up on people is not the best dog behavior, especially for bigger breeds, it is a sign of affection. Dogs like to greet one another face to face, and jumping up is a way of getting closer to your face. Consider these dog training tips to help your dog choose a better way of showing their affection.
11. 11. Facial expressions: If it looks like your pooch is smiling, they probably are. Just like humans, dogs have a wide range of facial expressions that reveal their emotions. From longing gazes to smiles to frowning, dogs use their facial expressions to show that they love you and want more of your attention.

Your dream of having a dog who understands words like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and—crucially— “no” is just a MasterClass Annual Membership away. The only things you’ll need to train up a well-behaved pup are your laptop, a big bag of treats, and our exclusive instructional videos from superstar animal trainer Brandon McMillan.