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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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It’s their way of sharing their most prized possessions. Silly? Maybe. Symbolic? Absolutely.
13. Tail Wagging Just for You
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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
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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
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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
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The moment you sit down, they’re in your lap, turning you into a human armchair. Imposing? A bit. Comforting? Immensely.
17. Eye Contact
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 / Ioana Catalina E.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.