Dogs have been our loyal companions for over 15,000 years, evolving alongside humans to form deep emotional bonds. While we often express our love for our canine friends, how can we tell if they truly trust us?
Scientists have discovered that dogs, like humans, release oxytocin – the “love hormone” – when interacting with their owners, indicating a strong emotional connection.1 This bond is built on trust, which dogs display through various behaviors and body language cues.
Here are 15 heartwarming ways your dog demonstrates their complete trust in you.
1. Maintaining Eye Contact
When your dog gazes into your eyes, it’s not just adorable – it’s a sign of deep trust. A study found that when dogs and their owners engaged in mutual gazing, both experienced increased levels of oxytocin. (ref)
STOP BUYING GREENS: This Machine Grows $1000s Worth Automatically
✓ Set It & Forget It: Fully Automated Growing
✓ From Seed to Harvest in Days - No Experience Needed
✓ Grow Premium Microgreens Worth $50/lb Year-Round
Note: This is an affiliate link and we may earn a small commission if you purchase at no additional cost. This helps keep our website free to use.
This hormone spike is similar to the bonding process between mothers and infants, indicating a strong emotional connection. By maintaining eye contact, your dog is essentially saying, “I love and trust you.”
It’s a powerful way for them to strengthen their bond with you.
2. Sleeping Near You
If your dog chooses to sleep close to you, it’s a clear indication of their trust. In the wild, dogs are at their most vulnerable when sleeping, so by dozing off near you, they’re showing that they feel safe and protected in your presence.
This behavior goes beyond mere comfort – it’s a sign that your dog sees you as a member of their pack. Whether they’re curled up at your feet or sprawled across your bed, your dog’s choice to sleep near you is a heartwarming display of their faith in you.
3. Exposing Their Belly
When your dog rolls over and shows you their belly, it’s more than just an invitation for belly rubs. This position is one of the most vulnerable for dogs, as it exposes their vital organs.
By willingly putting themselves in this position, your dog is demonstrating complete trust in you. They’re essentially saying, “I know you won’t hurt me.”
This gesture is particularly significant given dogs’ natural instinct for self-preservation, making it a powerful sign of their confidence in your relationship.
4. Leaning on You
Does your dog often lean against you when you’re standing or sitting? This seemingly simple act is actually a profound display of trust and affection. By leaning on you, your dog is seeking physical contact and emotional reassurance.
This behavior is rooted in a pack mentality, where close physical proximity signifies trust and belonging. Your dog is not only showing that they trust you but also that they view you as a source of comfort and security.
It’s their way of saying, “I feel safe with you.”
5. Following You Around
If your dog seems to shadow your every move, it’s a clear sign of their trust in you. This behavior, often jokingly referred to as “velcro dog syndrome,” is actually a compliment to your bond.
By following you from room to room, your dog is demonstrating that they see you as their leader and protector. They trust that wherever you go is safe and that being near you is the best place to be.
This behavior also shows their desire to be involved in your activities, further strengthening your bond.
6. Bringing You Their Favorite Toys
When your dog brings you their most prized possessions, it’s a heartwarming display of trust. This behavior goes beyond simple play – it’s your dog’s way of sharing something valuable with you.
By offering you their favorite toy, your dog is demonstrating that they trust you with their most cherished items. It’s also a sign that they view you as part of their pack and want to engage in a shared activity.
This gesture shows both trust and a desire for interaction with you.
7. Seeking Comfort When Scared
During thunderstorms or fireworks, if your dog comes to you for comfort, it’s a significant sign of trust. In moments of fear or anxiety, your dog is choosing you as their safe haven.
This behavior indicates that your dog sees you as a protector and a source of security. By turning to you in times of stress, they’re demonstrating their faith in your ability to keep them safe.
It’s a powerful testament to the strength of your bond and the level of trust your dog has in you.
8. Respecting Your Personal Space
A dog that trusts you will also respect your boundaries. This might seem counterintuitive, but a dog that can comfortably give you space shows a deep level of trust and understanding.
They know that you’ll still be there for them even if you’re not in constant physical contact. This behavior demonstrates a mature, trusting relationship where your dog feels secure enough to be independent while still maintaining a strong bond with you.
9. Responding to Your Voice
When your dog consistently responds to your voice commands, it’s not just good training – it’s a sign of trust. They believe that following your instructions will lead to positive outcomes.
This responsiveness shows that your dog trusts your judgment and leadership. It’s particularly evident when they respond to your voice even in distracting environments, demonstrating their faith in your guidance over other stimuli.
10. Relaxed Body Language around You
A dog that trusts you will display relaxed body language in your presence. This includes a loose, wagging tail, relaxed ears, and a soft facial expression.
These physical cues indicate that your dog feels safe and comfortable around you. They’re not on guard or anxious, but instead feel free to be themselves.
This relaxed state is a clear sign that they trust you completely and feel secure in your company.
11. Allowing You to Handle Them
If your dog willingly lets you touch their paws, ears, or mouth, it’s a significant display of trust. These areas are sensitive for dogs, and allowing you to handle them shows they believe you won’t harm them.
This level of trust is particularly important for grooming and veterinary care. A dog that trusts you to handle these sensitive areas is likely to be more cooperative during necessary care procedures, indicating a strong, trusting bond.
12. Seeking You Out When Injured
When a dog is hurt or feeling unwell, they often become more withdrawn. However, if your dog comes to you when they’re injured or sick, it’s a profound sign of trust.
This behavior shows that they view you as a source of comfort and help when they’re at their most vulnerable. It demonstrates their faith in your ability to provide care and protection, even when they’re not feeling their best.
13. Maintaining a Calm Demeanor
A dog that trusts you will remain calm in various situations when you’re present. This calmness stems from their confidence in your ability to handle any situation.
Whether it’s during a vet visit or meeting new people, if your dog looks to you and remains relaxed, it shows they trust your judgment. They believe that if you’re calm, there’s no reason for them to be anxious, demonstrating a deep level of faith in your leadership.
14. Sharing Food or Treats
In the wild, dogs are protective of their food resources. If your dog willingly shares their food or treats with you, it’s a significant sign of trust.
This behavior indicates that your dog doesn’t see you as a competition for resources. Instead, they view you as a trusted pack member with whom they’re willing to share.
It’s a powerful demonstration of their faith in your relationship and their place in your “pack.”
15. Initiating Play
When your dog brings you a toy or playfully bows in front of you, they’re not just looking for entertainment – they’re showing trust. By initiating play, they’re demonstrating their comfort in being vulnerable and silly around you.
This behavior also shows that they associate you with positive experiences. They trust that engaging with you will lead to enjoyment and bonding.
It’s a joyful expression of their faith in your relationship and their desire to strengthen your bond through shared activities.
Understanding the signs of trust your dog displays can deepen your bond and enhance your relationship. By recognizing and appreciating these gestures, you can better respond to your dog’s needs and continue building a strong, loving connection.
Remember, trust is a two-way street – as your dog shows faith in you, ensure you’re worthy of that trust through consistent care, affection, and respect.
Source:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.