Love on four paws and how we can reply them
Dogs cannot say with words “I love you”, they have their very own language to show their affection. Whether through eye contact, tail wagging or gentle touches – our four -legged friends have many ways to express their love. But how can we give back this affection so that you feel just as loved? Behavioral expert Katie Walmsley from Butternut Box reveals everything about the “Love Language” of the dogs and how the relationship with our loyal companions can be deepened. Because often common behavioral patterns such as yawn or licking are misinterpreted.
Berlin. Dogs are considered the best friends of humans – loyal and always at the side of their owners. But what looks like unconditional affection at first glance is a finely coordinated interplay of body language and behavior patterns. “Dogs communicate their feelings through subtle gestures, facial expressions and movements that can easily be misunderstood,” explains Katie Walmsley from Butternut Box. A waving tail does not always signal joy, and licking can also express something completely as an affection. Behavior that appears loving can mean stress or uncertainty in certain situations. “For example, yawning is often interpreted as a fatigue, but can also be a appeasement signal with which the dog tries to calm itself down,” said Walmsley. At the same time, there are subtle signs of affection that are often overlooked because they are not so obvious. It is crucial to look at the body language in the context and to pay attention to individual differences.
Understanding and showing dog loves show and show dogs in different ways and often less clearly than we suspect. A classic sign is the tail wagging. According to the behavioral expert, waving itself not only says something, but also the way: “A loose, fast waving with a relaxed body can indicate joy while a slow or stiff waving can signal insecurity”. Mutual or leaning are another sign of familiarity and care. Because dogs are looking for physical contact to feel safe. Eye contact can also be a strong signal of love – especially if it is soft and relaxed. “Studies show that the mutual view between dog and humans releases the binding hormone oxytocin, which strengthens the emotional connection,” says Walmsley. Many dogs show their appreciation by following their people everywhere – a behavior that can express their loyalty and the desire for closeness. And finally licking is often an indication of affection, because it not only serves care, but is often a tender behavior that comes from the puppy period to convey closeness. “From my experience, I know that every dog has its own way of showing love – it is important to understand these signals in the context of the respective situation,” says Walmsley. “We can convey our love for our favorite four -legged friends by respecting their needs.” The key and the first step are attentive: Those who perceive the signals of their dog and impose no closeness builds up. Positive reinforcement from praise, treats and playful activities promotes the bond. Just like together in which the dog can make its own decisions. In addition, a safe retreat and patience in stressful moments show the four -legged friends that they are loved and understood.
The dog's personality plays the greatest role
Although each dog breed has certain behavioral features, the expressions of inclusion are primarily individually shaped. For example, Labrador Retriever tend to approach people openly and friendly, while more independent breeds such as bases or greyhounds show their affection more reserved. “However, the personality of the dog and the experiences he has had in his previous life play a much greater role,” said the expert. For many, tail wails are considered a safe sign of joy, but a stiff -moving rod can also express uncertainty or tension. If a dog licks its people, this can be a loving proof, but four -legged friends often send a signal of the appeasement. “If you are not sure how dog reestics can be assessed, you should not consider it in isolation, but involve the entire body language, the situation and the individual peculiarities,” explains Walmsley. Because even the consequences everywhere, which is often interpreted as a close bond, can be a sign of separation fear.
Rituals that strengthen the bond
Common rituals are the key to a strong, trusting bond between dogs and their people. “Regular walks are not only movement units, but also important moments of cooperation,” says Walmsley. If you let the dog sniff and explore the dog, this promotes well -being and strengthens trust. Even seasons – be it with your favorite toy, a melt game or when retrofitting – creating positive experiences. Body contact is equally important, for example by cuddling together. The expert explains: “Feeding can also be a nice moment every day – a feed puzzle can provide fun and variety. After all, it is a nice way to give our beloved four -legged friends with fresh, high -quality meals and to show them our affection. ” It recommends positive reinforcements when working with a dog. This not only strengthens upbringing, but also mutual understanding. It is crucial that these rituals run regularly and stress -free – the dog feels safe and emotionally connected in the long term.
About Butternut Box
Butternut box thinks dog food new. Since the foundation in Great Britain in 2016, the two founders KEV and Dave have been pursuing a goal: to bring more health and joy to all dogs and their people. The leading company for fresh food delivers meals, adapted to dogs of all ages and all breeds, in the flexible subscription model directly home. All dishes are made from natural ingredients in food quality – without unnecessary additives – and served fresh from the fridge. Not dry, not wet, not raw: Butternut box is fresh! Further information on www .but ter nut box .de.