Recognize your dog's love
When we welcome a dog into our lives, they quickly form a deep bond with us,
creating lasting memories. While puppies are most impressionable, dogs of any
age can imprint on their humans. Dr. Jessica Pierce explains that dogs don't
immediately attach to someone at birth. They start recognizing their mother and
littermates at around 4 weeks old, with the strongest attachment forming between
7 and 12 weeks.
They hold steady eye contact with you.
Dogs that have bonded with you hold steady eye contact as a sign of love and
connection. while direct eye contact once signified a threat in wild canines,
domesticated dogs now use it to show affection. mutual gazing increases oxytocin
levels, benefiting both you and your dog, just like the bond between parents and
infants.
They want to sleep with you.
Dogs that have imprinted on you often want to sleep with you as a sign of trust
and safety. While it's a personal choice to allow them in your bed, co-sleeping
strengthens your bond. For some breeds with thick coats, the cool floor may be a
better option. Dogs are pack animals, and sleeping near you lets them feel
protective while you're at your most vulnerable.
They will roll over and want you to scratch their belly.
Flashing their belly is a huge sign of trust. It shows your dog feels safe with
you, as this position makes them vulnerable to threats. If your dog shows you
their belly, it's a clear sign they've imprinted on you and consider you
special.
They follow you around the house wherever you go.
If your dog constantly follows you around the house, even leaving their cozy
spot to be near you, it's a sign they've imprinted on you. Dogs that bond this
closely want to be with their human at all times—just watch out for those little
paws!
They'll sometimes mirror your behavior.
Dogs often mirror their owners' behaviors, like yawning after you do. This is a
sign your dog has imprinted on you. They may also mimic other actions, like
“helping” with yard work. Studies show dogs can copy human behavior even up to
ten minutes later.
Does your dog like to bring you gifts?
Dogs are deeply intuitive to our emotions and often bring toys when we're sad to
cheer us up. Unlike cats with their messy “gifts,” dogs engage with us to lift
our spirits. If your dog has imprinted on you, they know how important it is to
see you happy and will do their best to brighten your day. Feel special knowing
they care about your happiness.