The bond between a dog and its owner is one of the most rewarding relationships life can offer. For dog lovers, there’s no greater feeling than knowing your furry friend trusts you completely. Trust isn’t built overnight, but through consistent love, care, and understanding. While dogs may not express their feelings through words, they have their own unique ways of showing that they trust you. Let’s explore 12 small gestures that indicate your dog has placed their trust in you wholeheartedly.
They Follow You Everywhere
Have you ever found your dog trailing behind you, no matter where you go? This action is more than just curiosity. When your dog shadows you from room to room, it’s a sign they feel secure in your presence. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and being close to their pack leader provides them comfort and safety. Your dog sees you as their leader and protector, and following you is their way of staying close to safety.
Moreover, this gesture indicates that your dog enjoys your company and values your presence. Whether you’re heading to the kitchen or just sitting in the living room, they want to be by your side. This behavior also stems from their natural instinct to protect and be protected. It’s a small yet significant gesture that says, “I feel safe with you.”
They Make Eye Contact
Eye contact can be quite powerful, and in the world of dogs, it’s a significant trust indicator. When a dog looks deeply into your eyes, it’s akin to them giving you a warm embrace. This kind of gaze releases oxytocin, the love hormone, in both you and your dog, strengthening your bond. It’s a gesture that shows your dog is comfortable and secure with you.
However, it’s essential to note that not all eye contact is the same. A soft gaze filled with warmth and affection differs greatly from a hard stare, which might indicate stress or discomfort. When your dog looks at you with those gentle, loving eyes, it’s a surefire sign that they trust you deeply. It’s their way of saying, “I’m happy here with you.”
They Bring You Their Toys
When your dog brings you their favorite toy, it’s not just an invitation to play. It’s a gesture of trust and affection. Dogs often view their toys as valued possessions, and by sharing them with you, they’re offering you something special. This behavior signifies that your dog trusts you with their prized belongings and wants to share their joy with you.
Furthermore, this act can also be interpreted as your dog seeing you as a companion. They want you to be a part of their world, to engage in their playtime, and to share in their happiness. By bringing you their toys, they’re saying, “You’re important to me, and I want to share my happiness with you.”
They Sleep Next to You
When a dog chooses to sleep beside you, it’s a profound gesture of trust. In the wild, dogs sleep close to their pack for protection. By snuggling up next to you, your dog is expressing that they feel safe and secure in your presence. It’s a vulnerable state for them, and choosing you as their sleep partner is a testament to their trust in you.
Sleeping near you also signifies companionship and comfort. It’s their way of saying, “You are my safe haven.” This behavior indicates that your dog feels protected and cherished, allowing them to rest peacefully without worry. It’s a simple yet powerful gesture that speaks volumes about the trust they have in you.
They Expose Their Belly
A dog’s belly is one of their most vulnerable areas. When your dog rolls over and exposes their belly to you, it’s a significant sign of trust. This gesture means they feel safe enough with you to let their guard down completely. It’s an invitation for you to give them a belly rub, which is a delightful way to bond with your furry friend.
Additionally, this behavior indicates a high level of comfort and relaxation. Your dog is expressing that they feel no threat or danger in your presence. It’s their way of saying, “I trust you with my life.” When your dog shows you their belly, they’re offering you the ultimate gesture of trust and affection.
They Lean Against You
When your dog leans against you, it’s a clear indication of trust and affection. This simple act shows that they are comfortable enough to relax and let their guard down around you. Leaning is a bonding behavior, indicating that your dog sees you as a reliable source of support and security.
Moreover, leaning is often a way for dogs to seek comfort and reassurance. It’s their way of saying, “I need your presence to feel safe.” This gesture is a testament to the strong bond you share, showing that your dog trusts you to be there for them, no matter the situation.
They Lick You
Licking is a natural behavior for dogs, often used as a form of communication and affection. When your dog licks you, it’s a sign of love and trust. This gesture can be compared to a gentle kiss, expressing their fondness for you. It’s their way of showing that they care deeply for you and feel comfortable in your presence.
Additionally, licking can also be a way for dogs to seek attention or comfort. It’s their way of saying, “I trust you, and I want to be close to you.” This behavior is a heartwarming indication of the bond you share, highlighting the trust and affection your dog has for you.
They Wag Their Tail
A wagging tail is often associated with happiness, but it can also be a sign of trust. When your dog wags their tail in your presence, it indicates that they feel safe and content. It’s a gesture that shows they are comfortable and happy around you, trusting you to provide them with love and care.
However, it’s important to understand the context of the wagging. A loose, relaxed wagging often signifies happiness and trust, while a stiff, rapid wag can indicate anxiety or excitement. When your dog wags their tail with joy and ease, it’s their way of saying, “I trust you, and I’m happy to be with you.”
They Bring You “Gifts”
While it might not always be pleasant, when your dog brings you “gifts,” such as sticks, leaves, or even the occasional bug, it’s a gesture of trust and affection. This behavior stems from their instinct to share their findings with their pack. By offering you these treasures, your dog is showing that they trust you with their valued discoveries.
Moreover, this gesture is a sign of friendship and loyalty. Your dog wants to include you in their world and share their experiences with you. It’s their way of saying, “You’re important to me, and I want to share my life with you.”
They Yawn With You
Yawning is contagious, and when your dog yawns in response to your yawn, it’s a sign of empathy and trust. This behavior, known as “contagious yawning,” indicates that your dog feels a strong emotional connection with you. It’s a subtle gesture that shows they are in tune with your emotions and feel comfortable around you.
Furthermore, yawning can also be a calming signal for dogs, indicating that they feel relaxed and at ease in your presence. When your dog yawns with you, it’s their way of saying, “I trust you, and I’m comfortable being around you.”
They Check In With You
When you’re out on a walk or in a new environment, does your dog frequently look back at you? This behavior is known as “checking in,” and it’s a sign of trust and security. Your dog wants to ensure that you’re nearby and that everything is okay. It’s their way of seeking reassurance and guidance from you.
Checking in also indicates that your dog values your presence and looks to you for direction. It’s a testament to the strong bond you share, showing that your dog trusts you to lead them safely. This gesture is their way of saying, “I trust you to guide me.”
They Show Relaxed Body Language
A dog’s body language can tell you a lot about their emotional state. When your dog displays relaxed body language, such as a wagging tail, soft eyes, and loose posture, it’s a sign of trust. These signals indicate that your dog feels safe and secure in your presence, showing no signs of stress or anxiety.
Moreover, relaxed body language is a sign that your dog is comfortable and content. It’s their way of saying, “I trust you, and I feel happy with you.” This behavior highlights the strong bond you share, emphasizing the trust and affection your dog has for you.
In conclusion, understanding these small gestures can help deepen the bond between you and your dog. Trust is the foundation of any meaningful relationship, and these signs are your dog’s way of expressing that they trust you completely. Recognizing and appreciating these gestures will strengthen the love and connection you share, making your relationship with your furry friend even more rewarding.
Born and bred in South Africa, a Capetonian at heart. Amy-Leigh’s love for nature and animals was inherited from her Dad. He loves taking the family on road trips to experience nature at its finest; Amy-Leigh’s favourite being whale watching in Hermanus and spotting Kudu along the West Coast. Amy-Leigh holds a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies.
