You know your dog probably enjoys belly rubs, playtime, and treats the most, right? And your dog does adore them. But what if there were things you did, without a second thought, that your dog actually loved even more? The way that you look at them when you come home, the moments you just sit next to them doing nothing, the small, everyday movements you hardly even notice. Your dog is witnessing, sensing, and taking it all in. To them, every small action that you do is a component of your history together. These instants make their day, some build their love for you, and others build trust. Guess what these seemingly ordinary moments are? You’ll be surprised at how much they mean to your dog.
1. When You Make Eye Contact Without Saying Anything
Looking at your dog warmly means more than you realize. When your dog stares at you and you stare back, oxytocin, the love hormone, is released. The same hormone that deepens two humans’ relationships. One look is the assurance they need to feel safe, loved, and seen. Something that they won’t forget quickly.
2. When You Come Home and Greet Them First
Your dog has been waiting all day for you to come home. Who you greet first says it all. When you greet your dog first before looking at your phone or speaking to anyone else, you’re telling them that they count. It’s a small gesture, but they notice.
3. When You Sit on the Floor With Them Instead of on the Couch
Dogs don’t simply want to be around you: they want to connect. Sleeping or lying on the floor rather than the couch lowers you to their level, where you’re more available. To them, it’s an open invitation to interact, to share space. It makes them connect more deeply with you and feel like they’re part of your life.
4. When You Let Them Sleep Near You
Dogs are at their most vulnerable when they’re sleeping. Opting to have them sleep next to you encourages them to keep trusting you and strengthens the bond between you and them. It’s not only for comfort: it represents security in the “pack”.
5. When You Laugh or Smile at Something They Did
Your dog won’t ever get the joke of a punchline, but they sense joy. They know it when you smile or laugh at something silly they did. Positive reinforcement will help them remember what pleased you and will make them likely do it again, because making you happy makes their world.
6. When You Invite Them Along to Everyday Life
Folding the laundry, typing on your computer, or cooking: these activities may be boring to you, but to your dog appreciates every moment he can spend at your side. They don’t require exciting adventures to feel close to you. They simply need to be included in your day, included in your world.
7. When You Reach Out and Touch Them Gently Without Prompting
Affection is sweeter when it comes as a surprise. A quick head scratch or a rushed scratch behind the ears when they didn’t even request it? That’s love at its finest to your dog. It reminds them that you’re thinking of them, not just reacting to their attention need.
8. When You Notice Their Small Wins
Dogs want to be noticed for their efforts. Maybe they keep quiet when they would have typically barked. A tap on the head or a thank you will tell them that you acknowledge their effort and it will strengthen your connection.
9. When You Meet Their Energy Instead Of Correcting It
If they’re in play mode, play. If they’re loose, sit with them. Meeting their energy communicates that you’re aware of their moods. Rather than always training or correcting, sometimes just getting on their energy level is the best approach to establishing trust and building your relationship.
10. When You Say Goodnight the Same Way Every Night
Rituals provide reassurance. A nightly goodnight word or ritual assures your dog that the day is ending in a predictable and secure manner. To them, it’s not just habit: it’s reassurance. It reminds them that they’re loved, safe, and where they’re supposed to be.
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