Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

15 Signs Your Dog Thinks You’re the Best Human Ever

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| November 19, 2024

Shutterstock

Dogs have an incredible way of showing love and loyalty, and if you’ve ever wondered whether your furry friend thinks you’re the best, the answer is probably a big, enthusiastic yes! They express their admiration through adorable behaviors, like following you everywhere or showering you with slobbery kisses. Dogs don’t just wag their tails in excitement when you come home; they have countless ways to show that you’re their favorite human. From cuddling close to bringing you their prized toys, your dog’s actions prove how much they adore you.

They Follow You Everywhere

Shutterstock

If your dog is always two steps behind you, even when you’re doing mundane tasks like grabbing a snack from the fridge or heading to the bathroom, it’s a sure sign that they adore you. Dogs are pack animals, and when they shadow you around the house, it’s because they feel safe and secure in your presence. They say, “I love you so much, I can’t bear to be apart from you!” While it might feel like having a furry shadow, it’s proof that your dog thinks you’re the greatest.

They Bring You Their Favorite Toys

Shutterstock

Dogs are protective of their belongings, especially their favorite toys. So, it’s a big deal when your pup proudly presents you with their beloved squeaky duck or well-chewed tennis ball. Sharing their toys is your dog’s way of showing trust and affection. It’s as if they’re saying, “You’re so special; I want to share my most prized possessions with you!” Plus, they might be hoping for a game of fetch because playing with their favorite human is the ultimate joy.

They Give You Long, Loving Stares

Shutterstock

Ever notice your dog gazing into your eyes with a soft, adoring look? This isn’t just cute—it’s a sign of true love. Studies have shown that making eye contact with their owners increases oxytocin levels, the “love hormone,” in both the human and the dog. If your pup locks eyes with you in a way that makes your heart melt, it’s because they think you’re the best and want to deepen the emotional connection you share. Those puppy-dog eyes are a window into how much they adore you.

They Get Excited When You Come Home

Shutterstock

Few things are as heartwarming as the enthusiastic greeting you get from your dog when you walk through the front door. Whether they wag their entire body, jump up to lick your face, or run in circles with pure joy, your dog’s reaction is a testament to how much they’ve missed you. Dogs live for these reunions, and their over-the-top excitement is their way of saying, “You’re back! My favorite person is home!” It’s hard to feel anything but loved when you see their happiness.

They Lean Against You

Shutterstock

Dogs often lean against their owners to feel close and secure. This simple act of physical affection is your pup’s way of cuddling, even if they’re too big to be a lap dog. By leaning into you, they show trust and seek comfort, reinforcing your bond. It’s a dog’s saying, “I feel safe and loved when I’m right next to you.” So, if your dog leans into you, savor the moment—it means you’re their number one.

They Sleep Next to You

Shutterstock

Dogs are vulnerable when they sleep, so choosing to snooze beside you shows just how much they trust you. Whether they curl up on the bed, snuggle on the couch, or rest at your feet, their proximity clearly indicates love and loyalty. Dogs naturally want to be close to the people they care about, and sleeping near you is their way of protecting you while also feeling safe. If your pup loves napping nearby, you can be sure they think you’re the best snuggle buddy.

They Bring You “Gifts”

Shutterstock

While you might not always appreciate finding a slobbery stick or a random sock on your pillow, these little “gifts” are your dog’s way of expressing affection. Dogs love to share what they find, and bringing you treasure is their way of including you in their excitement. It’s a sign of respect and admiration, even if the gift isn’t exactly what you had in mind. Accept it with a smile and know that your dog sees you as someone worth sharing their world with.

They Check on You When You’re Sick

Shutterstock

Dogs have incredible empathy and often tell when you feel under the weather. If your dog is extra attentive when you’re sick or sad, offering gentle cuddles or lying by your side signifies their deep emotional connection to you. They want to comfort and care for you, just as you do for them. Your dog’s concern for your well-being is a sure sign that they think you’re worth looking after, and their love knows no bounds.

They Give You Gentle Nibbles

Shutterstock

While playful biting can be annoying, gentle nibbles or “love bites” are your dog’s way of showing affection. This behavior often mimics how they’d interact with their littermates, so if your dog softly mouths your hand, it’s a sign that they feel close and bonded to you. It’s a playful and loving gesture that means, “You’re my best friend!” Just make sure to redirect them to a toy if it gets a little too enthusiastic.

They Yawn When You Yawn

Shutterstock

Contagious yawning isn’t just a human phenomenon—it happens with dogs, too! If your dog yawns when you do, it’s actually a sign of empathy. Dogs with strong bonds with their owners are more likely to mirror their behavior, including yawning. It’s one of those funny, subtle ways that dogs show they’re in sync with you. So, the next time your dog yawns right after you, know that it’s not just a coincidence—it’s another way they show that they think you’re the best.

They Nuzzle Your Face

Shutterstock

Face nuzzling is a sweet, loving gesture that dogs use to show affection. Whether your dog gently presses their face against yours or gives you a soft nudge, it’s a sign that they adore you. This behavior mimics how puppies interact with their mother and siblings, so when your dog nuzzles you, it’s a deeply ingrained way of expressing love and connection. It’s their way of saying, “You’re my favorite person in the world.”

They Mimic Your Emotions

Shutterstock

Dogs are masters at reading human emotions and often mirror your feelings. If you’re happy and energetic, your dog will likely bounce around joyfully. You may become calmer and more attentive if you’re sad or stressed. This emotional mirroring shows your deep bond and how much your dog wants to be in sync with you. Their ability to pick up on and reflect your mood shows that they’re emotionally invested in your well-being, proving that you’re their number one.

They Jump for Joy (Literally)

Shutterstock

When your dog starts jumping around with pure, uncontainable joy—whether you’ve been gone for five minutes or five hours—it’s because they think you’re the best. This behavior is their way of releasing all the happiness they feel when they’re with you. Their bouncy excitement and wagging tail are hard to miss, and it’s one of the clearest signs that you’re the center of their universe.

They Get Jealous

Shutterstock

If your dog tries to wedge themselves between you and another person or pet, it’s likely because they feel jealous. While it might seem silly, this behavior shows just how much they value your attention and love. Dogs that think the world of their owners want to ensure they’re the top priority. So, while it can be a bit demanding, your dog’s jealousy is just another sign that they think you’re the best and can’t bear to share you.

They Give You a “Thank You” Look

Shutterstock

Sometimes, after a good belly rub or a tasty treat, your dog will give you a look of pure gratitude. It’s a soft, loving gaze that says, “Thanks for being amazing.” This expression is one of the most heartwarming signs of their appreciation and love. It’s a silent but powerful way for your dog to communicate how much they cherish you.

The Paws-Up, You’re-Awesome Award

Shutterstock

These signs prove that dogs have endless ways of showing love and admiration for humans. From following you around to bringing you their prized toys, your pup’s actions make it clear that they think you’re the best thing in the world. Their loyalty, affection, and unwavering devotion are constant reminders of the special bond you share. So, the next time your dog gives you that loving look or leans into you for comfort, remember that you truly are their favorite person—and they wouldn’t trade you for anything!