How To Know Whether Your Dog Loves You

The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue. – Anonymous

Let me tell you, expressing love as a dog is no walk in the park (though we obviously do love those too). We can't exactly pen sonnets or serenade you with a ukulele (although I've been practicing my rendition of "You Are My Sunshine" …only to be told to stop howling. That’s appreciation for you!).

Instead, we've had to get creative with our displays of affection. And by creative, I mean sometimes downright bizarre by human standards. Love comes in many forms, some more slobbery than others. So, here are 12 ways – in no particular order - we pooches profess our undying devotion to you, our beloved humans.

1. The Tail Tornado

When we see you, our tails go into overdrive, whipping around like a furry propeller. So, if your dog's tail wag could power a small city, you're doing something right.

2. The Face Wash Frenzy

Ah, the classic doggy kiss. We're not just trying to clean your face (though, between us, you could use it sometimes). This is our version of a heartfelt "I love you" - with bonus exfoliation!

3. The Lean Machine

When we press our bodies against you, it's not because we're tired. It's like a hug, but with our entire body. Efficiency at its finest!

4. The Eyebrow Dance

Those expressive eyebrows aren't just for looking cute in photos. When we raise them at you, especially with a head tilt, we're saying, "You're the most interesting thing in my world right now."

5. The Sock Thief Saga

Finding your socks in strange places isn't a sign of kleptomania. It's our way of surrounding ourselves with your scent when you're away. (It's either that or they just taste really good. The jury's still out.)

6. The Belly Flop of Trust

Rolling over for a belly rub is more than merely about the heavenly scratches. It's us showing you our most vulnerable side, saying, "I trust you with my life, and my ticklish spots." It's a big deal in the dog world - like sharing your Netflix password.

7. The Shadow Syndrome

When we follow you from room to room we’re not being clingy. Okay, maybe a little. But mostly, it's us making sure you don't get into any trouble without us. Someone has to keep an eye on you, after all.

8. The Toy Offering

When we bring you our favourite toy, it’s not just to initiate playtime. We're sharing our most prized possession with you. It's like us giving you jewellery, only slobberier and probably squeakier.

9. The Paw of Attention

Placing a paw on you is more than just a plea for treats (though, while we're on the subject, got any?). It's our way of reaching out, literally, to connect with you. It's the doggy equivalent of holding hands. Aww.

10. The Guard Dog Gig

When we bark at that suspicious-looking leaf blowing across the yard, we're not being noisy for the sake of it. We're protecting you from potential leafy assassins! You're welcome, by the way.

11. The Welcome Home Hysteria

Our over-the-top greetings when you come home is sos much more than just excitement. It's relief that our favourite human has returned from the great unknown (even if you were just getting the mail). Every reunion is like a puppy New Year's Eve party.

12. The Sneaky Snuggler

Lastly, when we curl up next to you on the couch or in bed, we're not just looking for warmth. We're saying, "You're my pack, my family, my everything".

Our ways of saying "I love you", my dear Cuddle Buddy, are as unconditional as they are – occasionally - inconvenient (sorry about those muddy paw prints on the clean sheets).

Remember, we may not have the words to express our feelings, but we've got tails, tongues, and an endless supply of fur to leave on your black pants as a reminder of our affection. So the next time your dog gives you that soulful look, know that what they're really saying is, "You're my human, and I wouldn't have it any other way".

Nose-to-tail dedicated to sniffing out your next revelation,

Truffle 🐾