Dog Mom Special: How to Show Your Pets You Love Them

All dog moms know one of the best things their fur-baby can give them is their unconditional love. From greeting you when you come home to comforting you when you're upset, your pup's love undoubtedly holds a special place in your heart.

While it may be clear that your pup loves you, you might be unsure of the best way to show them you love them back. Speaking to your woofer in a language they understand isn't always easy, but luckily, there are tons of ways to show your doggo they’re your best bud. Read on to find out a few ways to tell your fur-baby you love them.

Instead of giving your woofer your average rubs, consider giving them an ear massage. Your pup's ears are usually a sweet spot for pets, with hundreds of nerve endings that send signals throughout their body, releasing endorphins. Take your thumb and forefinger and gently massage one of their ears. Try it if you haven't already, and your pup is sure to be thankful.

Training, coupled with positive reinforcement, is a great way to bond with your barking bud. Not only will your mutt pick up lots of new tricks, but they'll be more responsive to you. 

Dogs love learning new things, and they're sure to appreciate a bit of training. Ensure you give your pup treats, lots of pets, and a "good dog!" after they correctly perform a trick. Having trouble training your pup? Check out Wag!'s training guides or hire an in-home dog trainer for a little extra help.

When your pupper next greets you at the door, use lots of facial expressions, especially your eyebrows. A 2013 study showed that dogs raise their eyebrows, especially their left one, whenever they greet their pet parents. 

The study also showed that dogs use fewer facial expressions when meeting a stranger, and these expressions mostly came from the dog's right side. So, next time you greet your woofer, use lots of facial expressions, and, if you can, raise just your left eyebrow to show they're loved. 

One of the most obvious ways you can show your dog they're the best is by taking them on lots of walkies. Walking your dog and playing with them is a great way to bond, and they're sure to feel loved after an adventure at their favorite dog park. 

Worried Fido isn't getting enough stimulation while you're out of the house? Book a dog walker through Wag! to keep your canine company!

When you're next watching TV with your hound at your side, try leaning on them slightly. You may have noticed your dog will lean on you from time to time, which is a sign of trust and affection. And as dogs can't give cuddles, this is a form of a dog hug. 

Reciprocate this behavior to your dog, and it'll show your pup you love them. Just make sure you don't lean too hard and that your dog doesn't feel trapped, as otherwise, they may react badly. 

Many dog moms have hectic lives, which may mean they don't get to spend enough one-on-one time with their fur-babies. Try to set aside 15 minutes a day where you give your fur-baby your undivided attention. Whether you're playing with their favorite toy or giving them a brush, one-on-one time is the perfect way of showing your dog they're loved.

While it might seem strange to read to your dog, they love being spoken to and will feel loved getting that extra attention. If you have kids, include your pup in their bedtime stories. If not, read to your woofer anyway, and speak in a soothing tone with lots of facial expressions to show your love in a way they understand.

Unlike cats, dogs don't see eye contact as a sign of confrontation, and gazing into your woofer's eyes is a surefire way to show your love. Studies show that staring into a dog's eyes increases their oxytocin, a chemical also called the "love hormone". This chemical is released not only in pet parents, but their fur-babies too! Staring into your dog's eyes is a scientifically proven way of showing your dog you love them.

One great way to show your pup they're loved is to have a fixed schedule for your fur-baby. Dogs need structure in their day-to-day, and having a routine will go a long way to showing your love. Walking and feeding your dog at the same time each day is an easy way to show your dog you love them.

Studies show that letting your dog sleep on your bed may be the ultimate sign of love. Letting your dog sleep on your bed shows them you're happy they're around when you're at your most vulnerable and also shows they're part of the pack. If you don't let your dog sleep on your bed, try taking a nap on the sofa with your pupper at your side.