Adorable changes in your dog's behaviour can signal that they've fallen in love
If you've ever caught your pooch looking longingly after another pet in the dog park, you might have wondered whether or not dogs can fall in love. A common question among pet owners, it's also quite the headscratcher. But a study by Canine Cottages found dogs exhibited a substantial heart rate increase when introduced to their favourite canine friend, with their heart rates skyrocketing by 116 per cent in some cases.
So while they might not experience love in quite the same way as us (or share candle-lit dinners like in Lady and the Tramp), they do establish deep connections with humans and animals, who they love in their own way. Previous studies also show that dogs produce oxytocin, commonly known as the "love hormone".
"This is released during positive interactions with both humans and other dogs and is pivotal in social bonding with parent-child, friend, and romantic bonds," according to the pros at Canine Cottages. What's more, they've teamed up with dog behaviourist, Joe Nutkins of Dog Training Essex & Suffolk, to produce a list of signs that your dog may have formed a connection beyond a typical friendship.
First up, it's worth checking if your pooch is happy to share with their admirer. "When dogs share essentials like food, water bowls, and sleeping spaces, it signifies a higher level of trust, comfort, and intimacy," explained Joe. "This behaviour goes beyond simple friendships, as dogs display cues like 'soft eyes' and behaviours that go deeper than casual interactions. Snuggling up together, curling up for sleep, and other shared gestures highlight this special bond."
"Some dogs display adoration for fellow furry companions even when it's not reciprocated," he added. Nonetheless, if your dog lets their guard down around one of their companions, this could be a key sign.
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As with humans, body language can also be telling, though your dog's ears and tail will be the likely giveaway. "Specific signals, like the base of the ear lifting or appearing relaxed and floppy, might suggest a deeper, perhaps even romantic, bond between dogs," according to the behaviourist.
Equally, vocalisation is important. "Sometimes dogs can use vocalisations in their play such as light-hearted barks, whines, moaning, and even higher pitched shrieks of joy. Some dogs will sound like they are mumbling, and some breed types may growl but this is a pleasant sound," said Joe.
And last but not least, you might pick up on the signs during playtime. "Playtime between two dogs can sometimes look like a dance," Joe notes. "The deeper the bond, the more synchronized their moves are, much like a romantic waltz," revealed the pro.
On the topic of canine love, Joe added: "Being 'in love' among dogs isn't always about physical attraction. In fact, mounting behaviours often aren't about mutual respect but may stem from natural breeding instincts, dominant tendencies, or even playful excitement. It's not always clear if dogs feel love the way we do, but their unmistakable fondness and respect for certain companions echo qualities we cherish in our own relationships. Whether it's true love or just a rush of oxytocin, watching such bonds form is a heart-warming sight."
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