Ever wonder if your dog sees you as their number one human? Dogs have unique ways of showing affection and loyalty, and some behaviors reveal whether you’ve truly won their heart. Understanding these signals can deepen your bond and help you become the favorite they already think you are.
This article offers general observations about dog behavior. Individual dogs may express affection differently based on breed, personality, and past experiences. Always consult a veterinarian or certified animal behaviorist for specific concerns about your pet.
Let’s first look at signs that show your dog is crazy about you.
1. They Follow You Everywhere Like A Shadow
Your dog trails behind you from room to room, never wanting to miss a moment. This constant companionship means they feel safest and happiest in your presence.
Whether you’re cooking dinner or folding laundry, they’re right there beside you. It’s their way of saying you’re the centre of their world and they trust you completely.
2. Their Tail Wags Harder For You Than Anyone Else
Watch closely when different people enter the room. If your dog’s tail transforms into a helicopter propeller specifically for you, congratulations!
That enthusiastic greeting, complete with full body wiggles, signals genuine excitement. Dogs reserve their most energetic welcomes for the humans they adore most, making this reaction incredibly telling about their feelings.
3. They Bring You Their Favourite Toys
When your dog drops their prized squeaky toy at your feet, they’re offering you something precious. This gesture shows trust and a desire to share their joy with you.
Some dogs even bring toys as an invitation to play together. Either way, being chosen as the recipient of their treasures means you hold a special place in their heart.
4. They Sleep In Your Room Or On Your Bed
Choosing to sleep near you reveals deep trust and attachment. Dogs are vulnerable while sleeping, so they pick locations where they feel most secure.
If your pup claims a spot on your bed or refuses to sleep anywhere but your bedroom, they’re telling you something important. You represent safety, comfort, and home to them in the truest sense.
5. They Lean Against You For Comfort
That gentle pressure against your leg isn’t accidental. Dogs lean on their favourite humans as a sign of affection and to feel closer to them.
This behaviour combines trust with a need for physical connection. When stressed or simply content, they seek you out for emotional support, proving you’re their safe harbour in any storm.
6. They Make Eye Contact And Hold Your Gaze
Prolonged eye contact between dogs and humans releases oxytocin, the same bonding hormone present between mothers and babies. When your dog gazes into your eyes, they’re strengthening your connection.
This behavior shows comfort and affection. Dogs typically avoid staring at strangers or those they distrust, making sustained eye contact a powerful indicator of favoritism.
Now, let’s see what might indicate you’re not exactly your dog’s favorite person.
7. They Seem Indifferent When You Come Home
A lukewarm greeting might sting a little. If your dog barely lifts their head when you arrive, they may not yet see you as their top human.
Dogs typically go wild for their favorite people after any separation. A casual acknowledgment suggests the bond needs more work, though it doesn’t mean they don’t care at all about you.
8. They Choose Someone Else For Playtime
Notice who your dog approaches when they want to play. If they consistently skip over you in favour of another household member, that person might currently hold the favourite spot.
Play is how dogs express joy and build relationships. Being passed over doesn’t mean you can’t change things, though. Increase your playtime together to strengthen your bond.
9. They Hide Or Move Away When You Approach
Avoidance behaviour signals discomfort or lack of trust. If your dog regularly retreats when you come near, they haven’t yet formed that secure attachment.
This could stem from limited bonding time, past negative experiences, or simply needing more patience. Building trust takes time, consistent positive interactions, and respecting their space when they need it.
10. They Don’t Seek You Out For Comfort
When scared or anxious, dogs instinctively run to their trusted person. If your pup seeks comfort from someone else during storms or stressful moments, they’ve chosen another protector.
Becoming their go to comfort source requires building security through calm reassurance and positive experiences. Over time, you can become the safe haven they automatically turn to when worried.
11. They Show Little Excitement During Your Interactions
Enthusiasm speaks volumes about how dogs feel. If your interactions lack that spark of joy, with minimal tail wagging or excited energy, the bond may still be developing.
Dogs light up around their favourite humans, showing obvious happiness. Building excitement means creating positive associations through treats, praise, play, and quality time spent together doing activities they genuinely enjoy.
