10 Signs Your Dog May Not Love You
We all love to believe our dogs adore us, but what if that’s not entirely true? Sometimes, our dogs may just be tolerating us rather than showering us with unconditional love. Want to know where you stand with your dog? What if they don't love you as much as you think? Here are 10 signs they might feel otherwise.
Sign #1 They Avoid Eye Contact
A dog’s eyes can reveal a lot about their feelings. Eye contact is a significant form of communication for dogs, and it’s often tied to trust and comfort. If your dog regularly avoids looking at you, even when you try to make eye contact, it could be a sign of discomfort or lack of trust. Dogs often steer clear of eye contact to avoid tension or conflict. This might happen if they’ve been scolded, feel anxious, or aren’t yet secure in your relationship. To rebuild trust, focus on creating positive, stress-free interactions. Reward your dog when they look at you to encourage that connection.
How to Help: Rebuild trust with consistent, positive interactions. Use gentle tones, offer treats, and avoid staring them down, which could feel intimidating.
Sign #2 They Reject Your Treats
Dogs rarely turn down a tasty treat, especially from someone they love. If your dog refuses treats you offer but happily accepts them from others, it could indicate discomfort or distrust in your relationship. This rejection might stem from a negative association, like a past experience where they felt stressed or uncomfortable in your presence. However, if your dog refuses treats from everyone, it could point to an underlying health issue. Always consult your vet in such cases. If trust is the issue, try offering treats in a calm, positive setting to rebuild their comfort level.
How to Help: Create positive associations with treats by offering them during happy moments or after fun activities like a walk or play session.
Sign #3 They Stay Alert Instead of Relaxing Around You
Pay close attention to how your dog behaves when they’re resting near you. Dogs feel vulnerable when they sleep, so if they trust you, they’ll lie on their side or even expose their belly—the ultimate sign of comfort and security. On the flip side, if your dog stays stiff, avoids exposing their belly, or keeps their eyes open and head raised when you’re nearby, they might not feel entirely comfortable with you. This constant alertness could indicate unease, as your dog doesn’t feel fully safe in your presence. Building trust through consistent, positive interactions is key to helping them feel more relaxed.
How to Help: Encourage a calming environment by offering soft bedding, gentle words, and a sense of routine to help them feel secure.
Sign #4 They Don’t Want to Sleep in Your Room
Dogs are pack animals by nature, and sleeping near their “pack” is a way of feeling safe and secure. If your dog avoids sleeping in your room or doesn’t try to stay close at night, it might indicate a lack of connection. This behaviour could also result from unintentional cues, like making their sleeping area more appealing than yours. While some dogs are naturally independent, most prefer proximity to their favourite humans. Try inviting your dog into your room with a comfortable bed and a calm atmosphere to see if they’re interested in staying closer.
How to Help: Make your room inviting with a cosy dog bed, low lighting, and a calming atmosphere. Gradually build their comfort in being near you.
Sign #5 They Don’t Wag Their Tail When They See You
A motionless tail can be just as telling as one wagging to the left. If your dog doesn’t wag their tail when you approach, it might mean they’re nervous, uncomfortable, or even scared. A wagging tail is like an emotional barometer—a happy dog will often wag their tail enthusiastically when they see someone they love. If this behaviour is absent, it’s worth evaluating your interactions. Are you approaching them calmly? Are there moments where they might have felt scolded or startled? Building a sense of safety and positivity is crucial to earning back their joyful tail wags.
How to Help: Approach your dog calmly and avoid sudden movements. Offer praise and affection when they greet you positively.
Sign #6 They Ignore Your Commands
Ignoring commands is more than just a training issue—it’s often a relationship issue. Dogs respond to instructions when they trust and respect the person giving them. If your dog starts disregarding your commands, it might signal a weakened bond. This can be especially common in rescue dogs who are still adjusting to their new environment. Spend more quality time together to rebuild that connection. Engage in fun, low-pressure training sessions that reward positive behaviour. This will not only reinforce their learning but also show them that listening to you leads to positive outcomes.
How to Help: Rebuild engagement by turning training into a fun bonding activity. Use positive reinforcement to strengthen your connection.
Sign #7 They Prefer Someone Else’s Company
Dogs, like people, often have favourites. If your dog consistently chooses to cuddle with someone else in your household while avoiding you, it might be time to reflect on your interactions. Are you respecting their boundaries? Are you engaging with them in a way they enjoy? Dogs can be sensitive to tone, energy, and the way they’re approached. Observing how others connect with your dog can provide valuable insights. Try mimicking the positive behaviours you see from others—whether it’s a gentler approach, offering more playtime, or simply being present in a calm, loving way.
How to Help: Observe how others interact with your dog and replicate their approach while adding your own touch of affection and care.
Sign #8 They Wag Their Tail to the Left
Tail wagging isn’t always a sign of happiness—it depends on the direction. Studies have shown that when a dog wags their tail to the left, it can signal feelings of fear, anxiety, or unease. This behaviour is often seen when a dog is around someone they find intimidating or unfamiliar. On the other hand, a tail wagging to the right typically indicates happiness and affection. Observing these subtle movements can provide valuable clues about how your dog feels in your presence. If you notice left-sided wags, focus on creating a calm and reassuring environment to help them feel more at ease.
How to Help: Pay attention to your dog’s body language and create a stress-free, positive environment to improve their comfort around you.
Sign #9 They Leave the Room When You Enter
Ever notice your dog walking out of the room as soon as you step in? While it’s easy to think they’re just exploring, it could also mean they’re uneasy around you. Dogs instinctively create space from things—or people—that make them uncomfortable. However, it’s important not to jump to conclusions too quickly. This behaviour could also indicate that they’re feeling unwell, tired, or simply in need of alone time. If this happens often, try to observe other behaviours and, if needed, consult a vet to rule out any health issues. Gaining their trust starts with understanding their boundaries.
How to Help: Give your dog space when needed and approach them calmly. Build trust gradually by respecting their personal boundaries.
Sign #10 They Avoid Physical Contact
Petting your dog is a way to show affection and build a connection. If your dog consistently moves away when you try to touch them, it’s a clear sign something is wrong. This behaviour often stems from anxiety, stress, or negative past experiences. Don’t take it personally—instead, see it as an opportunity to improve your relationship. Give your dog space and allow them to approach you on their own terms. Avoid sudden movements or overwhelming gestures, and create positive associations through activities they enjoy, like gentle play or walks. Over time, with patience and consistency, your dog will likely feel more comfortable seeking your affection.
How to Help: Let your dog initiate contact and focus on creating a safe, calming atmosphere. Use gentle play to build trust over time.
Turning Things Around
Recognising these signs is the first step toward building a stronger relationship with your dog. If any of these behaviours sound familiar, don’t worry—most of the time, improving your bond is as simple as spending more quality time together and respecting their boundaries. Be patient, consistent, and loving, and your dog will start to feel more connected to you in no time.
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With Wags and Woofs,
Laura, Dolly & Reggie