10 Unvocalized Ways Your Dog Is Saying Thank You
If you’ve ever felt like your dog gets you, there’s a good chance they’ve been sending silent messages all along. Curious about what they might be saying? These are 10 unspoken ways dogs express their appreciation and love.
The Slow Blink Of Trust
A slow blink from a dog signals deep comfort and gratitude. This subtle gesture is a sign of trust, often seen when a dog is relaxed. Research by the University of Portsmouth found that dogs adjust their eye movements based on human attention, reinforcing emotional bonds. When a dog gives a slow blink, it indicates that it feels safe and connected.
The Gentle Lean Against You
Dogs may lean more when feeling anxious or content, using physical closeness to express silent gratitude and reassurance. This instinct dates back to early domesticated dogs, who leaned on their pack members for protection. Studies reveal that canines release oxytocin, the “love hormone,” when leaning in.
The Happy Tail Wag With A Soft Body
A loose, sweeping tail wag reflects appreciation, but context matters. The direction and speed of the wag all convey different emotions. The Guardian reported that dogs wag more to the right when happy, while left-sided wags may indicate uncertainty. A slow, broad wag with a relaxed body often signals comfort and gratitude.
The Thoughtful Gifting Of A Toy
Bringing a toy isn’t always about play—it’s often a token of gratitude. Dogs usually have the instinct to give their favorite toys, especially to those they feel connected to. Some breeds, like retrievers and spaniels, have an innate drive to carry objects, making them more likely to present toys as offerings.
The Soft Paw On Your Lap
Paws are powerful communication tools, and gratitude is no exception. Puppies instinctively press their paws against their mother for warmth and attention, a habit that continues into adulthood. Some gently rest a paw on their owner’s lap for comfort, while others offer it reassuringly.
The Gentle Nose Nudge For Affection
A soft nose nudge is a dog saying, “Thank you for being here.” In puppyhood, dogs nudge their mothers to seek warmth and nourishment, a behavior that naturally extends into adulthood. This gentle touch can serve multiple purposes—seeking comfort or offering reassurance. Some dogs nudge their owners after receiving affection.
The Exposed Belly During Rest
Dogs protect their vital organs instinctively, so exposing their belly is a rare display of vulnerability. Resting on their backs with their bellies exposed is a sign of trust and relaxation, often seen in dogs that feel entirely secure. This position allows for better heat dissipation, so dogs may sleep this way in warmer weather.
The Excited Welcome Without Barking
Unlike alert barking, this silent display of joy stems from positive reinforcement. Dogs remember acts of kindness and express their appreciation with body language rather than unnecessary noise. Therefore, an enthusiastic greeting with jumping or a playful spin—without excessive barking—signals affection and gratitude.
The Gentle Lick That Is Not Demand-Based
Puppies instinctively lick their mother’s face to request food and attention, and the habit continues into adulthood as a form of social bonding. Their slow, deliberate licking, especially on hands or arms, is a dog’s way of expressing appreciation. This behavior releases endorphins and promotes bonding.
The Soft Sigh Of Contentment
A deep, relaxed sigh from a dog is a quiet but powerful expression of gratitude and comfort. Often heard when settling down next to their owner, this gentle exhale signals a state of peace and trust. Animal behaviorists suggest that dogs sigh when they feel completely safe and at ease, reinforcing their bond with those they love.
