There are tons of reasons why dogs have been labeled as man’s best friend. Of all domesticated animals, they provide the widest array of roles: protector, helper, and companion. They have been man’s companions since ancient times and with that, our relationship with them is old and deep.

We can learn so many things about their behavior, such as loyalty and unconditional love. They happily greet us after a long, tiring day at work as they jump or run around to show their excitement. Truly, they are much more than a pet.

In case you’re wondering, dogs have several ways of showing their affection. They have certain ways of conveying their message and while some may be obvious, there are also some that are more subtle which you may not be aware of.

1. They Yawn When You Do

Have you ever wondered why yawning is contagious? Some of you may already be aware but it is a way of showing empathy. So when someone inside the room yawns, most likely you’d be inclined to do the same.

Dogs are more emotionally connected to people, especially to their owners. A group of scientists from the University of Tokyo determined that dogs will more likely yawn in response to their owners’ yawns than with strangers.

2. They Share Toys

Canines are instinctively territorial. They are often protective of the things that they love, such as their food, their owners, and especially their toys.

When a dog shares a toy with you, it means that they trust and are comfortable with you. It may be because of other reasons too, such as they want to play or bring it to you as an offering since they see you as a leader.

3. They Like To Cuddle

Nothing feels better than cuddling with someone special, and it’s the same with dogs too. Sure, your pet may have his own bed but his favorite resting place is most likely next to you.

Whether it be by nudging their nose or resting their head on your leg, it’s your dog’s way of showing their adoration towards you.

4. They Lick Your Face

Pooches have another way of showing their fondness to you, and that is by giving you doggy kisses. Most social animals groom their younglings or other members in their group to bond and even show respect.

Just make sure that you regularly brush their teeth and give them breath-freshening chew toys before you let them kiss you all over your face!

5. They Follow You

Dogs are social animals by nature. The same genetic instincts that helped them survive centuries ago in the wild are still present in your pet’s DNA.

Your pup follows you around because he sees you as his leader or simply just wants to be with you at all times.

6. They Wag Their Tail

A wagging tail can mean a lot, but if you have a solid relationship with your dog, you can bet that a full-body tail wag is a way of showing their excitement or happiness to see you.

There are tons of home videos on the Internet showing dogs wagging their tail as if they were dancing. Especially if they haven’t seen their human all day!

7. They Make Eye Contact

Making eye contact with someone special is very intimate. For dogs, it’s their way of showing a high level of attachment.

Just like mothers, oxytocins are also released in a dog’s brain whenever they make eye contact with their favorite person. From his point of view, you are the most important person in his life. Now isn’t that sweet?

8. They Ask For Belly Rub

Belly rubs feel like heaven for dogs. Nothing says “I like you” better than dogs rolling onto their back, asking for belly rubs.

When dogs flop over and wag their tail, it’s a surefire way of showing you their trust and affection.

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Source: Homemaking, The Dog People