how do dogs show affection?

How Do Dogs Show Love and Affection?

Dogs show their affection in their own way. This can vary according to age, personality but also the type of dog breed. Each breed has its own special way of showing love. At first, we were crushed when our darling little bundle of love aka Miss Puppy would shun our cuddles and belly rubs. The little miss simply prefers to play with us and sleep snuggled in our arms. Belly rubs, back scratches, expert behind the ear scratches…those are not her personal preference. Some dogs are very cuddly and sometimes can even become like overly attached family members while others are much more reserved. Let’s check out some major groups of dog breeds and their distinct ways of showing love and affection. Maybe this can help you figure things out. There are a few tips on how to express your love to your pooch (yes, love is a 2 way road, let’s not forget that!).

1.Asian Dog Breeds: Akita, Chow Chow and Shar-Pei

Asian breeds such as the Akita, Chow Chow and Shar-Pei are protection dogs. These dog breeds are suspicious and independent by nature. Their way of showing love is to stand by their master’s side. They can seem aloof as they are fond of their own space and do not enjoy laying on their humans.

2. Arctic Dogs: Malamute, Samoyed and Husky

Do you want to make your dog happy? If you own a Husky, a Malamute or a Samoyed, plan a training workout or training session with your dog! These breeds are very active and extremely sociable. These character traits make these dogs express their love by play fighting. If you own an arctic type dog, you probably know that they love exercise!

Pro tip: These of dogs are known to be very stubborn so don’t hesitate to motivate them with toys or rewards.

3. Companion Dogs

Small breeds of dogs such as Pugs, Pomeranians, Maltese and Shih Tzu are dogs of the rich. These pets are very affectionate and intelligent. They show their affection in a way that is quite similar to dogs of Asian breeds. These dogs love being very close to you…sometimes too close! Indeed, many dogs in this group tend to want to kiss their owners. The tongue blows can then cover every inch of your face! In short, they love being in your arms, on your knees, as long as they are on you, they are happy.

4. Guard Dogs

Watchdogs often frighten people because of their size. Boxers, bulldogs, rottweilers are part of this group. If you own one, you most likely know that these dogs are famous for their loyalty. They love to receive loads of attention. They will do their best to sleep next to you…despite their imposing size.

5. Herding Dogs

How do you know if you have a herd dog? If your dog goes around in circles around the other dogs in the park….you have a dog in this group! When they don’t collect just about everything that moves, these dogs, like the Australian Shepherd, German Shepherd, Border Collie and Pembroke Welsh Corgi, like to learn new things. The way to make them happy is to give them work to do. So you have to plan tasks for doggo, otherwise he will follow you everywhere while waiting for your next order!

6. Sports Dogs

This group is made up of dogs known to be happy, friendly and active. They include the Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever and poodle. These dogs have a loyalty and a desire to please their incomparable master. The dogs in this group have an ability to feel if something is wrong with you. These skills make them good guide dogs and emotional support companions. Treat your outdoor dog to lots of outdoor games, hugs and scratches behind the ears.

7. Terriers

These little dogs are full of love and energy. When they’re not running around, the Chihuahuas, Jack Russell Terriers and Schnauzers only want one thing: to be with their favorite humans. They love to play… especially if there’s a squirrel around! These dogs show their love by being very present in the lives of their owners. Show your dog how much you love him by combining physical and mental exercises.

What About My Mutt?

If you have a mixed dog, you can opt to do a DNA test to help you determine where your dog’s tendencies come from. Or you could invest a bit of time in investigating it. There’s no better way to do that then to spend time with your pet. Engage in activities like ball games, a good game of catch, taking a break together on the couch or going for a walk. You’ll be able to evaluate what makes doggo the happiest.