Have you ever sat curled up on the sofa nuzzled next to your four-legged pal and caught yourself pandering, Do dogs experience love?
Merriam-Webster defines love as a strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties.
It is not a secret dog has been man’s best friend since the dawn of time. It is natural for us as humans to experience emotions like immense affection and devotion for our furry friends, but do dogs also undergo love? Let’s find out.
The bond between dogs and humans is undoubtedly evident. The tail-wagging, the high-pitched vocals of excitement, the jumps, and kisses are greetings that most dog parents experience on a daily basis. According to Dr. Gregory Burns from Emory University, “the part of dogs’ brains light up when they hear their owners’ voices, just as the same part of the human brain that lights up when we are fond of someone.”
Dogs display specific traits such as affection, loyalty, and devotion. In 1873, Darwin stated that dogs demonstrate affection by lowering their head and whole body with their tail wagging while rubbing against their owner. Those wholesome greetings are indeed ways that your pup shows you their love and affection.
“My pup always follows me everywhere! He’s like my little shadow!”
When you are walking your dog, playing fetch, or snuggling up next to your fur baby, remember that your dog loves you!