🦴 Updated on November 4th, 2024
Let’s face it, being perceived as your dog’s mum might sound a touch pathetic to the uninitiated, but deep down, doesn’t it just melt your heart? Here are 20 signs that you’re more than just a best friend—you’re family.
1. Following You Everywhere
If your dog shadows you to the point where bathroom privacy is a distant memory, it’s love. Overbearing? Maybe. Adorable? Absolutely.
2. The Welcome Home Party
No matter if you’ve been gone an hour or a week, your return sparks a celebration rivalling New Year’s Eve. Pathetic or precious? You decide.
3. Those Puppy Dog Eyes
When they hit you with those big, soulful eyes, it’s manipulation at its finest. They’re begging for a treat, but also showing deep attachment. It’s scheming wrapped in love.
4. Stealing Your Clothes
Finding your dog nestled in a pile of your freshly laundered clothes? It’s their way of being close to you, by literally wrapping themselves in your scent. Clingy? Sure. Sweet? Definitely.
5. Protective Instincts
Does your dog transform into a canine bodyguard when someone approaches you too quickly? It’s not just loyalty; it’s primal protective instinct. They see you as their own.
6. Sleeping by Your Bed
If they refuse to sleep unless it’s near you, it’s not just a protective measure; it’s an undeniable sign they feel safest when you’re within snoring distance.
7. Mimicking Your Behavior
Yawning when you yawn, napping when you do—it might seem they’re copying you just to be a creep, but it’s actually a psychological phenomenon called mirroring, a sure sign of bonding.
8. Extreme Excitement for Meals You Prepare
Sure, they’d probably eat anything, but the enthusiasm when you’re at the helm of dinner? That’s pure familial adoration (or, you know, just hunger).
9. Checking in Mid-Play
They could be in the throes of play, but if they stop to make sure you’re watching, consider this the equivalent of a child’s “look Mum, no hands!” moment on the bike.
10. Licking Your Face
In dog language, this is a mix of affection and a plea for attention, much like a toddler’s sloppy kiss. Gross, but somehow heartwarming.
11. Leaning on You
Literally. If your dog uses you as a leaning post, it’s not just seeking physical closeness; it’s a sign of trust and comfort. Needy, but reassuring.
12. Bringing You Their Toys
It’s their way of sharing their most prized possessions. Silly? Maybe. Symbolic? Absolutely.
13. Tail Wagging Just for You
If their tail wags in that special, vigorous way just when they see you, it’s more than simple happiness; it’s a love reserved just for mum.
14. Calming Down When They Hear Your Voice
Your voice can work magic, calming them when they’re anxious. It’s your vocal embrace that soothes them, proving your voice is their safety net.
15. Trying to Heal You
Noticing you’re unwell and sticking by your side, sometimes even offering their favorite toy for comfort. Misguided? Possibly. Endearing? Undoubtedly.
16. Cuddling on Cue
The moment you sit down, they’re in your lap, turning you into a human armchair. Imposing? A bit. Comforting? Immensely.
17. Eye Contact
Holding eye contact with you longer than usual isn’t just a staring contest; it’s a sign of affection and respect in the canine world. Intense, but meaningful.
18. Excitement When You Dress Them
They might hate the outfit, but they tolerate it because you’re the one dressing them. Humiliating? Slightly. Bond-strengthening? For sure.
19. Recognizing Your Scent from Afar
They can pick you out by scent alone in a sea of distractions. Creepy? Kind of. A sign of deep connection? Definitely.
20. The Full Body Wag
When the tail wag isn’t enough, and their whole body shakes with joy at your presence, it’s not just happiness; it’s adoration.
Happy Mother’s Day
So there you have it, 20 tell-tale signs that you are, indeed, Mum to your furry companion. A bit pathetic? Perhaps. But are we secretly pleased about it? Absolutely, so there! Embrace the soppiness; after all, in a world where unconditional love is rare, isn’t it rather wonderful to be adored so completely by your dog?
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Iryna Kalamurza.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
