Owning a dog is like having a furry member of the family.
But unlike your human relatives, dogs have their own unique ways of expressing emotions.
As a dedicated dog owner, you might often wonder about the ways dogs say ‘I trust you’.
Trust is a vital element in the relationship between you and your canine companion, and recognizing the signs can help you ensure that your bond is strong and healthy.
In this blog post, we will explore the various behaviors and actions that indicate your dog’s trust, some of which may be quite surprising and often overlooked by even the most attentive dog owners.
The Signs of Trust: What To Look For
Building trust with your dog is a process that develops over time, and it’s communicated through subtle signals and gestures that are easy to miss if you don’t know what to look for.
Eye Contact
One of the most profound ways dogs say ‘I trust you’ is through eye contact.
In the animal kingdom, direct eye contact is often considered a threat.
However, when your dog holds your gaze with a soft, relaxed expression, it’s a clear sign of trust and bonding.
This kind of eye contact releases oxytocin in both the dog and human, which is the same hormone that strengthens the bond between mother and child.
If your dog looks at you with gentle eyes, it’s a sign they feel safe and connected to you.
Body Language
Another indicator of trust is your dog’s body language.
A relaxed posture, with a wagging tail held at mid-level, indicates contentment and confidence in your presence.
If your dog approaches you with a calm demeanor or comfortably turns their back to you, it’s their way of saying they trust you enough to let their guard down.
Dogs are naturally vigilant creatures, so showing this level of vulnerability is a true testament to their faith in you.
Following You
If your dog follows you around the house, it’s not just a sign of affection—it’s a sign of trust.
Dogs are pack animals by nature, and they look to their pack leader for guidance.
By sticking close to you, your dog is showing that they see you as their leader and are comfortable with you guiding them through life’s adventures.
How Dogs Show It
Trust is not just about recognizing signs; it’s also about understanding how dogs actively demonstrate their trust in their behavior towards you.
When Your Dog Wants To Snuggle
One of the most endearing ways dogs say ‘I trust you’ is by seeking physical closeness.
When your dog snuggles up to you, they are seeking comfort and security.
This desire to be close is a sign that they feel protected and loved in your presence.
It’s not just a quest for warmth; it’s a significant gesture of trust and affection.
Sharing Their Favorite Toys
Does your dog bring you their favorite toy?
This is more than just an invitation to play.
In the canine world, toys can be seen as prized possessions or resources.
When your dog brings you their toy, they aren’t just sharing—it’s an indication of their trust in you with something valuable to them.
It’s their way of showing they consider you part of their pack and that they respect and trust you.
Belly Up
One of the ultimate signs of trust in dogs is when they expose their belly to you.
The belly is the most vulnerable area on a dog’s body.
When your dog rolls over and shows you their belly, it’s a clear sign of trust and submission.
They’re saying they trust you not to hurt them and that they feel completely safe in your care.
Fun Ways To Build Trust With Your Dog
Every dog owner knows that a happy pooch means a happy home.
But how do we make sure our four-legged buddies feel completely comfortable with us?
Let’s talk about some super fun activities that also help build a bridge of trust between you and your tail-wagging friend.
Learn Together
Think of training your dog as a cool game you play together, where learning new tricks and commands is the main challenge.
It’s like when you help a friend get better at a video game – every time your dog gets a command right and you celebrate, they feel like a champion!
This teamwork shows them that you’re a leader they can rely on, and every high-five (or high-paw!) makes the trust between you even stronger.
Play Time
Playtime is like a secret handshake between you and your dog.
It’s your special way of saying, “I’m so glad we’re buddies!”
Whether you’re throwing a ball, playing tug-of-war, or running around in the backyard, each game tells your dog that they can let loose and have fun with you.
They learn that you’re the source of good vibes, and that’s a big deal in the trust department.
Daily Routines
Imagine if your day was full of surprises – some fun, some not so much.
That can be pretty stressful, right?
Well, dogs feel the same!
They love knowing what’s coming next.
So, having a set time for walks, meals, and even naps tells your dog that they’re living in a safe, predictable world with you.
It’s like having a calendar that both of you can check off, which makes your dog feel super secure and trusting.
Feeling The Love: Trust Is More Than Just Actions
Trust isn’t just about doing things together; it’s also about the warm, fuzzy feelings you share with your furry pal.
Kisses And Cuddles
When your dog gives you a big, wet lick, it’s as good as a kiss.
And when they snuggle up to you, it’s like they’re giving you a hug.
These little moments are huge in the world of dogs.
They’re saying, “You’re my person, and I love being with you!”
This lovey-dovey stuff makes the trust between you grow big time.
Quiet Time
Now, you don’t always have to be active to show you care.
Sometimes, chilling out with your dog, maybe while you’re reading a book or watching TV, and giving them a gentle pat, tells them that they’re part of the family.
This peaceful time together is super special to dogs – it’s when they feel loved and trusted just for being them.
Always Alert
Did you know that when your dog seems to just ‘get’ you when you’re feeling down or super happy, it’s their way of saying, “I’ve got your back”?
Dogs are really good at picking up on how we feel, and when they come over to cheer you up or join in on your happiness, it’s a sign that the trust is real and deep.
Fixing Trust: What To Do If Trust Gets Broken
Even the best friendships can hit a bump in the road sometimes, and it’s the same with your dog.
Take It Slow
If something happens and your dog seems a bit wary, it’s like when a friend is upset with you – you give them space and time.
By taking things easy and letting your dog come to you when they’re ready, you’re showing them that you’re patient and still the safe buddy they know.
Using Praise To Build Trust Again
Everyone loves a little cheer, and dogs are no different!
When you celebrate the little things they do right with a happy voice or a tasty treat, you’re mending the friendship fence.
It’s like patching up a hole to make sure the trust doesn’t leak out.
Ask For Help
Sometimes, we all need a bit of help from the experts.
If you’re having trouble, a dog trainer is like a friendship coach for you and your pooch.
They can give you tips on how to make things right again and get that trust back on track.
How You Can Show Your Dog You Trust Them
Trust isn’t a one-way street; your furry friend needs to know you trust them too!
Give Them Space
Just like us, dogs need their “me time.”
Letting your dog have their own spot to chill shows that you trust them to be on their own.
It’s like saying, “I know you’re cool just hanging out, and I’m cool with it too!”
Understand What They Want
Listening to your dog’s barks, whines, or body language, and then doing what they’re asking for, shows you’re a team.
It’s like you’re both speaking the same secret language, and that’s a big trust booster!
Be The Boss
But hey, being a team doesn’t mean there’s no leader.
By being a fair and kind boss – kind of like the captain of a ship – you’re telling your dog that they can count on you to steer the way.
And when they know you’re confidently in charge, they trust you to lead the adventure you’re on together.
Before You Go…
You now know the ways dogs say “I trust you”.
If you want to learn more, read the following articles too!
Or watch this video:
