If you’ve ever had a dog, you know their love is unlike anything else. It’s pure, silly, and sometimes a little intense – like when they insist on sitting on your lap because your lap is obviously the better choice.
My dog Leksi, a spirited little Jack Russell Terrier, was the queen of cuddles on her own terms. Anytime I sat down with my laptop on the bed or couch, she’d give me the look – you know, the one that says, “Excuse me, this spot is mine.” And if I didn’t move the laptop fast enough, she’d nudge it with her head and curl right up on my legs like it was her throne.
Dogs have their own special ways of showing love. Some are heart-melting, others are downright awkward (like sniffing your crotch — we’ll get there, promise). But every wag, nuzzle, or stare means something.
How dogs say “I love you” without using words
Dogs might not speak our language, but they’re incredibly good at showing how they feel. From loving stares to silly zoomies, their actions speak louder than words. Some of these signs are obvious, while others might surprise you — but they all mean the same thing: you’re their favorite person.
1. Staring into your eyes
Does your dog ever hold eye contact with you a little longer than usual? That’s not just a random stare — it’s love.
When your dog looks into your eyes, they’re saying, “I trust you. I feel safe with you.” It’s also been shown that this kind of eye contact increases oxytocin — the hormone linked to bonding and affection. Pretty amazing, right?
Just a note: this only works with dogs who know and trust you. With a stranger’s dog, too much eye contact might feel threatening to them.
2. Watching over you when you’re not okay
Dogs are emotional superheroes. They notice things most people miss.
If you’re feeling sick, sad, or just not like yourself, your dog will pick up on it. They might sit closer to you, watch you carefully, or follow you around more than usual. They don’t need words — they read your body language like a book. And they don’t judge. They comfort. Because to them, you’re family. And family takes care of each other.
3. Sleeping next to you
If your dog curls up next to you or tries to share your bed, it means one thing: you’re pack.
Dogs naturally sleep close to the ones they love. Leksi used to climb onto my legs no matter what was already there — laptop, book, blanket — and just make herself at home. And during the night? She’d slowly wiggle her way up until her head was on my pillow, like she owned the bed. Honestly, she kind of did.
Some people love sleeping with their dogs, others prefer some space — and that’s okay. But when your dog chooses to snooze beside you, it’s one of the clearest signs of trust and love.
4. Leaning on you
It might seem random (or even a bit annoying), but when your dog leans on you, it means they love and trust you.
Sometimes, it’s subtle — like when they sit next to you and gently press against your leg. Other times, they go all in, leaning their full weight on you like you’re a cozy pillow. It’s their way of saying, “I feel safe here.”
Sure, it can be a bit much, especially with bigger dogs. But at that moment, your dog just wants to feel close. A few gentle pets or soft words are often all they need in return.
5. Jumping around you
This one can feel like chaos — especially when you’re wearing nice clothes — but jumping is often your dog’s happy dance.
Dogs jump because they’re excited. They want to greet you face-to-face and show how much they missed you (even if you were gone for only five minutes). It’s not about bad manners — it’s pure joy.
Of course, if the jumping gets to be too much, it’s okay to set boundaries. But don’t forget: behind all that bouncing is a heart that’s really happy to see you.
6. Yawning when you do
Ever yawned and noticed your dog yawning right after? That’s not a coincidence — it’s actually a sign of emotional connection.
Dogs mirror the people they’re close to. When your dog yawns with you, it means they’re in tune with your feelings. Research even suggests that this kind of contagious yawning is linked to empathy. So next time it happens, smile — it means your pup is emotionally synced with you in their own adorable way.
7. Smiling at you
Yes, dogs do smile — and it’s just as heart-melting as it sounds.
You might notice it when they’re relaxed, with a slightly open mouth, soft eyes, and a gentle tail wag. It’s not exactly like a human smile, but it means the same thing: “I’m happy, and I love being with you.”
If you’ve ever caught your dog looking at you like that, you know the feeling — instant joy.
8. Wagging their tail
Tail wagging is probably the most famous sign of a happy dog, but not all wags mean the same thing.
A loose, sweeping wag — especially at mid-height — usually means your dog is feeling happy, playful, or excited to see you. If they add a little whole-body wiggle to it? Even better. That’s full-body love.
Just keep in mind: a stiff, high tail can mean alertness or stress. So always pay attention to the way your dog wags, not just the fact that they do.
9. Licking your face
Okay, this one’s not for everyone, but for dogs, licking your face is a big sign of love.
It’s how they show affection, connect, and even care for you (kind of like how they’d groom another dog). If your pup is gently licking your nose, cheeks, or chin, they’re saying, “I love you, I trust you, and I want to be close.”
Of course, if you’re not a fan of wet kisses, that’s totally okay — but hey, at least you know they mean well!
10. Following you everywhere
If your dog follows you from room to room, even to the bathroom (yep, no privacy!), it’s because they want to be near you.
Dogs are social animals. They stick with the ones they love, and in their eyes, you’re the leader of the pack. Following you isn’t just about curiosity — it’s about connection.
They’re not trying to annoy you. They just feel happiest when you’re nearby. And honestly, being someone’s favorite shadow is kind of sweet.
11. Staying calm when you leave
This one might surprise you.
Many dogs get anxious when their humans leave, but if your dog stays calm and relaxed, it could actually be a beautiful sign of love — and trust. They know you’ll come back. They’re not panicking because they feel secure.
So, if your dog doesn’t throw a fit when you grab your keys, don’t worry. They’re just confident that you’ll return — like you always do.
12. Roughhousing with you
Play fighting or gentle wrestling isn’t just fun — it’s a bonding ritual.
When your dog roughhouses with you (without getting too wild), it shows they trust you, feel safe with you, and see you as part of their “pack play.” It’s their way of connecting and sharing joy.
Just make sure to set gentle limits. Play is great, but you want to keep it safe and respectful. A happy tail and soft mouth? That’s love in action.
13. Choosing belly rubs over treats
Food is a big deal for most dogs. But not for Leksi. She was never much into treats. She’d always pick a belly rub, cuddle, or full-on hug over food — every single time. That was her love language.
Studies even show that some dogs respond better to praise and physical touch than to snacks. So, if your pup rolls over for a belly rub instead of heading straight for the treat bag, take it as a big compliment. You’re their favorite reward.
14. Sniffing your crotch (yep, really)
This one can be awkward, especially around other people — but to your dog, it’s totally normal.
Sniffing your crotch is their way of saying “hello” and gathering information. It’s kind of like a dog version of a handshake (just, you know, way more invasive). It’s not about being rude — it’s just how dogs connect. Weird? Definitely. But also another little sign that they care and want to be close.
15. Bringing you their toys
When your dog brings you a toy, it’s not always about fetch. Sometimes, it’s about sharing something they love — with someone they love.
Leksi used to walk up to me with a toy in her mouth and gently hold it right up to my face. It was her way of saying, “Let’s play!” and it always melted my heart.
If your pup does the same, it’s more than just a game. It’s their way of inviting you into their world.
16. Peeing when they’re excited
This one might not be the most glamorous sign of love, but it’s definitely real.
When I moved to Denmark, I’d come home to visit, and Leksi would get so excited the moment she saw me — tail wagging, body wiggling, and… a little pee on the floor. It was her way of saying, “You’re back!” and honestly, it was adorable.
Some dogs pee a little when they’re overwhelmed with joy, especially if they haven’t seen you in a while. Others do it as a sign of submission. Either way, it’s not something to scold — it’s just their emotions getting the best of them.
Final thoughts
Every dog has their own way of saying “I love you.” Some are loud, some are gentle, and some (like Leksi’s little welcome puddles) are just too cute to be mad about.
If your dog does any of these things, you’re doing something right — you’ve built a bond that’s full of love, trust, and a lot of tail wags.
So go ahead, give them that belly rub. They’ve definitely earned it.