We love our dogs! Dogs are the family members who wait so patiently when we are away and treat us like rock stars every time we walk in the door. Dogs are there for us when we are having a not-so-good day, and they are right by our side to listen to all our issues and give us a warm cuddle! Of course, we want to show them how much we love them, so they truly understand.
Recently, I watched a few videos and read a few articles on the topic of how to show our dogs we love them, and I thought I’d share some top tips on how to reciprocate our love to them with you.
12 Ways to Tell Your Dog “I Love You”
Take Time to Cuddle
Allowing your dog to sleep on your bed or cuddle on the couch or floor shows them you are part of their pack. Close contact makes them feel safe and secure, and this, in return, strengthens your bond.
Talk to Your Dog in Your “Dog Voice”
Holding that one-way conversation with your pup is not as crazy as you think! You know we all do it! Your pup actually loves when you use that high-pitched tone because they know you are talking to them. Your pup might not understand what you are saying, but they certainly sense your love and affection.
Put Down Your Phone
They love all your attention and don’t understand why you are always looking at that weird thing in your hands so much. Put the phone in another room or on silent and spend some peaceful time with your dog. They’ll love the attention!
Respect Your Dog’s Nature
Many pet parents confuse caring for their dogs almost like human babies. But, dogs are dogs-they love to sniff other dogs’ behinds, eat dirt once in a while, and roll on interesting smells. They do need to express their true nature to avoid becoming anxious and confused. Just remember to love them for who they are!
Focus on Touch
Gently touching the spot right behind their ears triggers good impulses throughout their body. They love your full attention when you pet them. Respect your pup if he isn’t in the mood or is showing signs of wanting you to stop.
Prepare Their Favorite Food
Surprise them with their favorite food. Dogs really do like some variety in their diet, just like us. So, make them a homemade healthy meal or top their regular meal with something delicious as a way to show how much you care.
Eye Contact
Eye contact or a loving gaze (especially while cuddling) can produce oxytocin, or the bonding hormone between you and your pooch. But watch your approach on how you stare at a dog. Staring down a dog in a forceful manner can be a sign of aggression.
Dedicate Quality Time
This is probably the most important! Dog parenting is more than just feeding your pup and taking them for granted. You are everything to your sweet pup, so they love it when you take the time to show them they matter. Dogs are pack animals and crave attention. And, as we all know, their lives are much shorter than ours, so don’t let the time go by without spending quality time and creating amazing memories!
Lean on Your Dog
Your dog leans on you as a sign of love and trust. When you give your dog a full-body hug, it can feel threatening or make them feel trapped. If you just lean on them and let them lean on you, it’s a better way to bond. Just the right amount of lean will show that you trust them.
Raise Your Eyebrows When You See Your Dog
When a dog raises their eyebrows and sticks out their tongue, they are relaxed and happy, and they expect the same from you. They can really tell how you are feeling by your facial expressions!
Take Your Dog on a Dog-Friendly Vacation
Our furry family members deserve a trip to a new place, too. Traveling with dogs is so easy these days, with dog-friendly hotels and activities everywhere. Here’s my blog with tips on road-tripping with your furry friends.
Hang Out Together
Whatever you do during the day, try to incorporate your dog, too. Whether it’s a walk, gardening, cuddling on the couch while you are watching TV, a ride in the car, or a trip to the beach. They will love you for including them.
Danville, CA Pet Photographer
Our pets are truly part of our families! The bond I share with my dogs is such a special gift that I cherish. This is why I’m so passionate about lifestyle pet photography that captures your entire family – pets included. You’ll always treasure these images and portrait artwork and have a beautiful reminder of your best friend.
“Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them and filling the emptiness we didn’t ever know we had.”
– Author Thom Jones
