If you’re a dog parent, you’ve likely gazed into your pup’s face and wondered, “Does my dog really love me?” Dogs can’t say “I love you” in words, but their actions say it all. From wagging tails to cuddle sessions, our furry companions have their unique ways of exhibiting love.

Here are 10 signs that your dog really does love you, not just because you’re the one with the treat bag!

1. Tail Wagging (the Right Way)
    
Tail wagging is typically the first thing people think of when discussing a happy pup, but it’s more nuanced than that. A diluted, mid-height, side-to-side wagging tail typically signifies affection and happiness. Bonus points if their entire body wriggles with it, that’s a happy dog who appreciates your presence!

2. Eye Contact With Soft Eyes
    
When a dog gazes at you with gently squinted eyes and slow blinks, it’s no coincidence, it’s their love. Fearful or anxious dogs will avoid eye contact. If your pup stares at you calmly, and softly, it’s an expression of trust and love.

3. Following You Everywhere
    
Is your dog literally your shadow? If they follow you from room to room or wait patiently outside the bathroom door, it’s because they want to be near their favorite human. Dogs are pack animals, and keeping close means they consider you their pack leader, or their best friend.

4. Excited Greetings
    
Whether you’ve been gone for five minutes or five hours, your dog may very well treat you like a long-lost traveler returning from a yearlong expedition. Jumping, spinning, wagging, barking — all of those are classic signs that your dog missed you. That over-the-top greeting is their way of saying, “I love you and I’m so glad you’re back!”

5. Cuddling and Leaning on You
    
Dogs are not snuggling with just anyone. When your pooch leans against you, puts their head on your lap, or snuggles next to you on the couch, they’re showing love and requesting comfort. Cuddling also triggers the release of oxytocin for yourself and your dog.

Other Important Links-

https://www.justiceforleia.com/blog/signs-k9-facility-not-right-lessons-from-leia/

https://www.justiceforleia.com/blog/signs-of-stress-in-dogs-body-language-cues/

6. Bringing Them Their Favorite Toy
    
If your dog brings you their favorite toy, it’s more than a request to play. It is a sign of trust and affection. They’re sharing something special to them with you, a kind of gift. It’s their message that says, “You matter to me.”

7. Licking Your Face or Hands
    
Though not everyone’s favorite kind of affection, licking is a natural form of love your dog may show. Puppies lick their moms for soothing, while grown dogs often lick their favorite humans. It's a canine kiss!

8. Sleeping Near You or On You
    
Dogs are most vulnerable when sleeping, so if yours opts to snooze near you or even on you; it’s a huge indicator of trust and love. You are their safe space.

9. They Check In With You
    
Even without a leash and in unfamiliar settings, a devoted dog will often check back toward you to make sure you’re close by. This is referred to as “checking in” and is a hallmark of a secure attachment. It means that your dog loves having you around and that he’s more self-assured when you’re nearby.

10. They Calm Down Around You
    
A deep emotional connection doesn't always manifest as excitement — at times, it manifests as peace. If your dog settles down when you are around, this shows they feel safe and loved. A relaxed dog around you is a happy, attached dog.

So, Does Your Dog Actually Love You?

If you’re noticing even a couple of these signs, your dog definitely loves you. Canine love is based on trust, loyalty, and shared experiences. You feed them, you walk them, you cuddle them and you protect them. In exchange, they give you a kind of unconditional love that’s hard to beat.

Though every pup has a different way of showing love, one thing is true: if you show them kindness, care, and attention, they’ll love you in ways you’ll feel deeply—even if they never say the words.

So the next time your pup cuddles up at your feet, “presents” you with a soggy tennis ball, or just stares lovingly into your eyes with a wagging tail, you will know — it’s love. We hope you find this blog helpful.