Animal behaviourist names key sign your dog loves you – ‘strong signal of affection’

The bond between a dog and its owner is incredibly special, but have you ever wondered what your furry friend is thinking about you and whether or not they actually love you?

Whether you're a dog lover or a cat enthusiast, having a pet is an incredibly rewarding experience. These four-legged companions bring so much joy and love into our lives.

But have you ever pondered what they're thinking about you? It's only natural to wonder what goes on in their minds and if they're content – especially when they spend so much time gazing into your eyes. Another common question that might cross your mind is whether they truly love you.

Axel Lagercrantz, a pet behaviourist and CEO of Pets4Homes, has named the key signs that indicate your dog genuinely loves you. “One of the great things about dogs is that their love is simple and unconditional,” he explained.

“They don't overthink relationships the way humans do, they just show how they feel through their behaviour. While every dog has its own personality, there are a few key ways they commonly express love and attachment.”

Axel pointed out that the first key sign to watch for is eye contact. He explained that if your dog looks at you with “a soft, relaxed gaze”, it's actually a bonding mechanism.

“When dogs and their owners share eye contact, both experience a release of oxytocin, the same hormone that strengthens social bonds between humans, making it a sign of deep trust and affection,” he added.

Axel remarked on the affectionate nature of dogs, explaining how physical proximity is a key sign they hold you dear. “Whether they lean against you, follow you from room to room, or settle next to you when you sit down, this is their way of saying they feel safe and connected,” he explained.

“Dogs are naturally social animals, and their instinct is to stay close to those they trust.”

He added that offering their favourite toy is more than an invitation to play; it's an expression of trust, reports the Express. “Bringing you their favourite toy is another strong signal of affection. While it might seem like they're just asking for a game, it's also a gesture of trust, they're sharing something valuable with you.”

Some furry friends show their bond through silent gestures. “Some dogs even present their toys without expecting you to throw them, which is an even stronger sign of attachment.”

Delving deeper into canines' emotional intelligence, Axel explained that our four-legged friends are profoundly attuned to human feelings, providing comfort when we need it most. He continued: “Dogs can read human emotions remarkably well and often adjust their behaviour accordingly, which is a big part of why the human-dog bond is so special.”

In his concluding thoughts, Axel underscored the simplicity and sincerity in how dogs express love. “Ultimately, dogs don't love in complicated ways – they just show it through their actions, and if you pay attention, you'll see plenty of small but meaningful signs of just how much they care.”