Does My Dog Love Me? 9 Ways To Tell

Dogs are affectionate and kind—and they’re usually ready for a good snuggle at the end of the day.

But it’s normal to wonder, “Does my dog love me?”

Here’s everything you need to know about your pup’s idea of love and where you fit into it, along with some signs your dog loves you.

Does My Dog Love Me?

While it’s impossible to say that dogs experience love just like we do, science would suggest that dogs love us in their own way.

For example, dogs get the same oxytocin rush that we do. Oxytocin is known as the “love hormone” for its role in securing bonds, and it can surge when pet parents gaze at, speak to, pet, or otherwise interact with their dog.

What’s more, dopamine can boost their reward center, signaling that the feeling they're experiencing is positive.

Still not convinced? If you’re really wondering how to tell if your dog loves you, here are some signs that they’re your biggest fan.

How To Tell If Your Dog Loves You

They Wag Their Tail When They See You

One way to decipher your dog’s feelings is by paying close attention to their body language, like the way they move their tail. A slightly upright, moderately wagging tail indicates happiness.

Another sign your dog loves you is a "helicopter tail"—when the wagging intensifies, causing the tail to whip about with excitement when they see you.

They Keep Eye Contact With You

Have you ever locked eyes with your dog to share a soft, loving look? The sentimental moment isn’t your imagination. Studies show that domesticated dogs have learned to use eye contact differently than their wild ancestors.

Soft eye contact is a special way that our dogs communicate with us, the same way humans connect with each other. What’s more, softly locking eyes with your pup triggers an oxytocin release, strengthening your special connection.

They Greet You When You Come Home

Few things compare to an exuberant greeting from your furry bestie upon returning home, even if only after a short absence. Their excitement isn't about wanting a walk or playtime; it's an expression of pure joy at your presence.

As long as your dog doesn’t suffer from separation anxiety—in which case you might want to play it cooler—go ahead and join the celebration.

They Lick You

There are a few reasons why dogs lick their people, but one of the most heartwarming is that it's a natural continuation of their puppyhood experience. Puppies lick to maintain relationships with their mother and littermates, and your dog does the same now with you because you’re family.

They Bring You Their Toys

You know your dog loves you if they bring you their favorite toy.

This behavior is an invitation to play and a sign of affection. It shows they trust you with their prized possessions, and they enjoy spending time with you.

Playtime with your dog strengthens your bond and provides them with much-needed exercise, so take them up on the offer when you can.

Each dog is different when it comes to favorite toys, so try a few different kinds—like squeaky toys, crinkle toys, rope toys, and chew toys—until you discover your dog’s preference.

They Raise Their Eyebrows at You

You might be an expert at reading other people’s facial expressions, but have you ever noticed your dog’s?

Dogs make more facial expressions when their human is paying attention, suggesting that these expressions are deliberate attempts at communication.

The most notable is the canine smile, a sign of a happy pup. The eyebrow raise can also be an expression of love.

When dogs raise their inner eyebrows, their eyes appear larger and even more puppy-like. Scientists believe this expression is a deliberate attempt to trigger a nurturing response in humans, persuading us to shower them with more attention.

They Follow You Everywhere

Ever feel like you’re never alone? If your dog follows you everywhere, it could be a sign that they love you.

While it’s always an honor to be so adored, if your furry shadow seems to be trailing a bit too much, offer them some mental stimulation like a puzzle toy while you go about your day.

They Sleep With You

Sleep is a vulnerable time for any animal, but your dog doesn't feel that way when curled up next to you. Studies indicate that dogs who have a secure relationship with their humans sleep better when they're close.

So next time your dog takes up half the bed, remember it's not just about the warmth—it's about the deep sense of security they feel nestled up with you.

They Wiggle When You're Around

Dogs wear their hearts on their sleeves, and a full-body wiggle is a telltale sign that your pup is head-over-heels in love—they simply can't contain their excitement.

So, while we may never know exactly what our dogs are thinking, there’s no doubt in most pet parents’ minds that dogs are capable of love. It’s just one of the reasons why we love them right back.