12 Scientific Ways To Tell Your Dog You Love Them

Summary

This video unravels the secret language of love for dogs backed by scientific research. It provides 12 ways to communicate affection to your canine companion. From making eye contact and using a soothing voice to engaging them in sniff walks and positive reinforcement training, these methods help strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. The key takeaway is that love isn't just in words but shown through actions and understanding their needs.

Highlights

• Gazing into your dog's eyes can increase oxytocin and build a stronger bond 🐶
• Gentle petting reduces stress for both you and your dog 🐾
• High-pitched voices can increase a dog’s interest and playfulness 🎤
• Puzzle toys provide mental exercise and improve dogs' emotional well-being 🧠
• Sniff walks offer dogs an enriching sensory experience 🌼
• Understanding and respecting a dog’s body language fosters a strong, trusting relationship 👀
• Positive reinforcement with treats boosts morale and connection 🍖
• Proximity during sleep lowers dogs' anxiety and enhances attachment 🛏️
• Using positive training methods promotes confidence and cooperation 🎾
• Aligning your emotions with your dog's enhances their sense of security 😊
• Helping dogs engage in their instinctive activities brings satisfaction and joy 🎒
• Dedicated, distraction-free time strengthens your affection bond 🌟

Key Takeaways

• Show love through soft eye contact releasing bonding oxytocin 🐾
• Pet in the right spots like behind ears for trust and safety 🤗
• Use a high-pitched voice to improve connection and engagement 🎶
• Provide mental stimulation with puzzle toys for problem-solving fun 🧩
• Sniff walks allow dogs to explore and reduce stress 🌳
• Respecting body language builds trust and prevents anxiety 🐕
• High-value treats during positive interactions strengthen bonds 🍗
• Let them sleep nearby for a sense of security 😴
• Training with positive reinforcement builds trustful relationships 🎓
• Emotional matching helps dogs feel more secure and comfortable 🌈
• Encourage breed-specific activities for natural fulfillment 🏞️
• Spend quality, undistracted time to enhance connection ❤️

Overview

In the video, a fascinating exploration into the world of dogs unveils science-backed methods of displaying affection that resonate deeply with our furry companions. The narrator discusses practical and enriching activities like eye contact, gentle voice tones, and mental stimulation to communicate love effectively. These strategies are both straightforward to incorporate into daily routines and beneficial for enhancing the emotional connection with pets.

The video underscores the vital role of understanding a dog’s instincts and emotional cues. Owners are encouraged to interpret body language and offer appropriate responses, creating an environment where dogs feel understood and secure. Techniques such as respecting personal space, providing high-value treats at key moments, and ensuring restful sleeping arrangements are highlighted as means to reinforce trust and affection.

Ultimately, the message centers around the importance of quality time and mutual respect. Encouraging breed-specific behaviors, using positive reinforcement, and spending distraction-free time are emphasized as pathways to a deeper, more fulfilling bond. These methods ensure that both pet and owner enjoy a harmonious and loving relationship, based on empathy and shared experience.

Chapters

• 00:00 - 00:30: Introduction The introduction discusses the common assumption that dogs naturally understand our love for them. However, science suggests that there are specific actions that communicate love to dogs effectively. This chapter will reveal 12 scientifically backed methods to express love to dogs, potentially surprising to some, and easy to implement in everyday life to strengthen the human-dog bond.
• 00:30 - 01:30: Gaze into Their Eyes In the chapter titled 'Gaze into Their Eyes,' the focus is on the unique bond between humans and dogs that is strengthened by eye contact. By maintaining a soft and relaxed gaze into your dog's eyes, both human and canine brains release the bonding hormone oxytocin, similar to the bonding process between mothers and their babies. This concept is supported by a 2015 study from Aabu University, which highlights the mutual benefits of eye contact in expressing love to dogs.
• 01:30 - 02:30: Gentle Petting in the Right Spots The chapter titled 'Gentle Petting in the Right Spots' explains the mutual effects of eye contact and petting between dogs and their owners. Both dogs and humans experience a rise in oxytocin when making mutual eye contact, which leads to feelings of calmness, safety, and connectedness. The chapter details how this interaction slows heart rate, relaxes breathing, and decreases anxiety for both parties. Petting a dog can lower stress levels and improve mood for the owner, highlighting the mutual benefits of gentle petting. It emphasizes a chemical signal of trust exchanged through this bond.
• 02:30 - 04:00: Use a Soothing, High-Pitched Voice This chapter focuses on effective communication with your dog through soothing, high-pitched vocal tones and appropriate timing for interactions. Key strategies include making eye contact when the dog is calm to foster safety and affection, and using body language to avoid making the dog feel nervous or confused, such as when on long staircases. It further emphasizes gentle petting in the right spots as a form of care and bonding.
• 04:00 - 05:00: Mental Stimulation Through Puzzle Toys The chapter titled 'Mental Stimulation Through Puzzle Toys' discusses the emotional and psychological benefits of physical contact between humans and their dogs. It highlights that petting can reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels and increasing oxytocin in both humans and dogs, fostering a sense of safety and happiness. The study from the University of Gothenburg underscores the positive impact of where dogs are petted, emphasizing gentle strokes for optimal emotional connection.
• 05:00 - 06:30: Take Them on Sniff Walks This chapter provides insights on how to properly pet your dog to build connection and trust. It emphasizes the importance of petting in areas linked to comfort such as the ears, chest, and base of the tail, while advising against rough pats or direct touches to the top of the head, as some dogs may dislike it. Observing the dog's response is crucial, as positive reactions include leaning in, sighing, or closing eyes, while negative indicators are shifting away, licking lips, or tensing up. The act of petting, when done with care, conveys a message of safety and affection to the dog.
• 06:30 - 07:30: Respect Their Body Language The chapter emphasizes the importance of using a high-pitched and emotional tone when speaking to dogs, similar to the way we talk to babies, known as dog-directed speech. Research by the University of York in 2018 shows that dogs are more responsive and engaged when they are spoken to with an exaggerated pitch and emotional tone. This type of communication makes dogs feel more connected to the speaker.
• 07:30 - 09:00: Offer High-Value Treats During Positive Moments The chapter explains the importance of using an excited and warm tone when interacting with dogs to foster positive feelings and build trust. It highlights that dogs react more to the vocal tone than the actual words. An enthusiastic voice can convey joy and warmth, triggering positive emotions in dogs even if they don't comprehend every word. On the contrary, flat and emotionless speech doesn't have the same effect.
• 09:00 - 10:30: Let Them Sleep Near You The chapter emphasizes the importance of demonstrating love and care for your dog, not only through affection but also by keeping their minds active. It discusses how dogs are inherently problem solvers and need mental stimulation to prevent boredom, anxiety, and destructive behavior. It references a 2001 study by Karen Overall, which found that mental enrichment positively affects dogs' emotional well-being and can reduce problematic behaviors such as excessive chewing or barking.
• 10:30 - 12:00: Train Them Using Positive Reinforcement This chapter discusses the significance of using positive reinforcement to train dogs, emphasizing the value of both physical and mental stimulation. It highlights that mental workouts are just as crucial as physical exercises, and suggests using puzzle toys like snuffle mats and treat dispensing balls to engage a dog's mind. Additionally, it introduces DIY games such as hiding treats in a muffin tin, which tap into a dog's natural instincts like sniffing and foraging.
• 12:00 - 13:30: Match Their Energy and Emotions The chapter emphasizes the importance of engaging with your dog by matching their energy and emotions. It stresses the significance of allowing dogs to think, solve, and play, highlighting that these activities show care for the dog's happiness and wellbeing, rather than just seeking obedience. Furthermore, it discusses the value of taking dogs on 'sniff walks', emphasizing that sniffing is a crucial activity for dogs as it helps them understand the world, and ultimately contributes to their mental and emotional health.
• 13:30 - 15:00: Let Them Fulfill Breed-Specific Instincts The chapter emphasizes the importance of allowing dogs to engage in sniffing activities during walks, known as 'sniff walks' or 'decompression walks'. Research from Barnard College in 2016 highlights that sniffing lowers a dog's heart rate and promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and confidence in their environment. These walks prioritize the dog's pace and interest, rather than distance or speed, fostering a respectful and enriched experience for the pet.
• 15:00 - 16:30: Spend Uninterrupted Quality Time The chapter emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with dogs to strengthen your bond. It highlights that understanding and respecting a dog's body language is crucial as they communicate through it to convey emotions like happiness, nervousness, and being overwhelmed. By acknowledging and responding to these signals, one can show genuine care and understanding towards a dog's needs, which goes beyond verbal communication. This approach advocates for more profound empathy and connection with pets, aligning with research findings from the University of California.

12 Scientific Ways To Tell Your Dog You Love Them Transcription

• 00:00 - 00:30 Dogs love us unconditionally, but do they know when we love them back? Most people assume dogs just know, but science says otherwise. If you want your dog to truly feel your love, there are specific things you can do that speak their language, backed by real research. In this video, we're breaking down 12 simple science-based ways to tell your dog you love them. Some of these may surprise you, and most of them are easy to do starting today. If you love dogs and want to build the strongest bond
• 00:30 - 01:00 possible, hit that subscribe button and let's get started. Number 12, gaze into their eyes. One of the clearest ways to tell your dog you love them is by gently looking into their eyes. Not in a staring contest, but with a soft, relaxed gaze. When you do this, something powerful happens. Your brain releases oxytocin, the same chemical that helps humans bond with babies. and your dog's brain does the same. A 2015 study from Aabu University found that
• 01:00 - 01:30 when dogs and their owners made mutual eye contact, both experienced a rise in oxytocin. For your dog, this means they feel calmer, safer, and more connected to you. Their heart rate can slow down, their breathing becomes more relaxed, and their overall anxiety may decrease. For you, the same thing happens. Petting your dog can lower your own stress levels and even improve your mood. It's also a two-way street because when you gently pet your dog in the right spots, both of your bodies respond with a chemical signal that says, "I trust you.
• 01:30 - 02:00 I care about you. We're okay." The key is timing and body language. Don't force it. Long stairs can make some dogs feel nervous or confused. The best moment is when your dog is already calm, like after playtime or while you're relaxing together. Just a few seconds of eye contact paired with a calm voice or gentle smile tells your dog you're safe, you're loved. Number 11, gentle petting in the right spots. Petting your dog isn't just
• 02:00 - 02:30 about physical contact. It's a way to emotionally connect. When done right, it can lower your dog stress and increase their feelings of safety and happiness. A 2011 study from the University of Goththingberg found that when people pet their dogs, both the human and the dog experience a drop in cortisol, the stress hormone, and a rise in oxytocin. That means petting helps you both feel better. But where you pet them matters. Most dogs enjoy gentle strokes behind
• 02:30 - 03:00 the ears, on the chest, and at the base of the tail. These spots are linked to comfort and trust. Avoid rough pats or going straight for the top of the head. Some dogs don't like that. Pay attention to how your dog responds. If they lean in, sigh, or close their eyes, they're loving it. If they shift away, lick their lips, or tense up, it's time to stop. Petting is about connection, not just touch. When done with care, it tells your dog, "You're safe. I care about you." Number 10, use a soothing,
• 03:00 - 03:30 high-pitched voice. The way you speak to your dog matters. Research shows that dogs respond better to a high-pitched emotional tone, similar to how we talk to babies. This kind of voice, often called dog directed speech, grabs their attention and makes them feel more connected to you. A 2018 study by the University of York found that dogs were more responsive and engaged when spoken to with exaggerated pitch and emotion.
• 03:30 - 04:00 It wasn't just the words, they reacted to the tone. So, when you say their name with excitement, like, "Who's a good boy?" or "Hey, buddy." Your dog picks up on the joy and warmth in your voice, that vocal tone triggers positive feelings and builds trust. Flat, emotionless speech doesn't have the same effect. And while your dog might not understand every word, they understand your tone. Using a warm, friendly voice is a simple, sciencebacked way to let
• 04:00 - 04:30 your dog know they matter to you. Number nine, mental stimulation through puzzle toys. Telling your dog you love them isn't just about affection. It's also about keeping their mind active. Dogs are problem solvers by nature. When they don't get mental stimulation, they can become bored, anxious, or even destructive. A study by Karen Overall in 2001 found that providing dogs with mental enrichment improves their emotional well-being and reduces problem behaviors like chewing, barking, or
• 04:30 - 05:00 pacing. It's not just about tiring them out physically. Mental workouts are just as important. One of the best ways to do this is through puzzle toys. Snuffle mats let your dog search for hidden treats using their nose. Treat dispensing balls make them work to get their reward. You can also make simple DIY games at home, like hiding treats in a muffin tin covered with tennis balls. These activities tap into your dog's natural instincts like sniffing, pawing, and foraging while keeping their brain engaged. Giving your dog opportunities
• 05:00 - 05:30 to think, solve, and play is a clear way of showing them you care about their happiness, not just their obedience. Number eight, take them on sniff walks. For dogs, sniffing isn't just a hobby. It's how they make sense of the world. Their sense of smell is tens of thousands of times more powerful than ours. When you let your dog sniff during walks, you're not just giving them exercise. You're giving them a mental and emotional
• 05:30 - 06:00 outlet. Research from Barnard College in 2016 showed that sniffing lowers a dog's heart rate and helps them feel calmer and more relaxed. It's a form of enrichment that allows them to decompress, reduce stress, and feel more confident in their environment. This kind of walk, often called a sniff walk or a decompression walk, isn't about distance or speed. It's about letting your dog lead, explore sense, and take in their surroundings at their own pace. Letting them sniff hydrants, trees, or even the same spot for a full minute tells them you respect how they
• 06:00 - 06:30 experience the world. And that simple act says more than words ever could. I get you. I care about your needs. Number seven, respect their body language. Dogs are always communicating, but not with words. They use body language to show when they're happy, nervous, or overwhelmed. If you want to show your dog love, one of the most important things you can do is pay attention and respect what they're telling you. According to research from the University of California, recognizing and responding to stress signals in dogs
• 06:30 - 07:00 is key to building trust and preventing fear-based behaviors. Common signs of stress include yawning when they're not tired, licking their lips, turning their head away, tensing up, or trying to move away. If your dog shows these signs, it's their way of saying, "I'm uncomfortable," or, "I need space." Ignoring those cues, like continuing to hug them when they're pulling away, can make them feel unsafe. Respecting your dog's body language shows that you're listening. Over time, this builds
• 07:00 - 07:30 confidence, safety, and a deeper bond. It teaches your dog that they can trust you to understand what they need even when they can't speak. Number six, offer high value treats during positive moments. Food is one of the strongest ways dogs learn what's safe, rewarding, and good. When you give your dog high-v value treats during positive moments, you're creating a strong emotional link between you and that experience. Research from Tel Aviv University in 2017 showed that positive reinforcement,
• 07:30 - 08:00 especially using food rewards, builds trust, and improves behavior far more effectively than punishment. It also reduces stress, and makes training more enjoyable for your dog. High-V value treats are anything your dog finds extra special. This could be small pieces of chicken, cheese, or a soft store-bought treat they don't get often. Use these rewards during training when greeting them after you've been away or even just during quiet bonding moments. It's not about bribing your dog. It's about using
• 08:00 - 08:30 food as a tool to strengthen your connection. When used the right way, a treat isn't just a snack. It's a message. Being around me feels good. You're safe here. Number five, let them sleep near you. Where your dog sleeps can say a lot about how close they feel to you. Sleeping nearby, whether it's in your bed or just in the same room, helps build trust and makes your dog feel safe. A 2021 study published in the
• 08:30 - 09:00 Human Animal Interaction Bulletin found that dogs who sleep close to their owners tend to show lower levels of anxiety and stronger emotional bonds. Being near you at night gives them a sense of security, especially if they're still adjusting to a new home or routine. This doesn't mean every dog needs to sleep in your bed. For some, a crate or dog bed nearby is enough. The key is allowing them to be close if they want to. If your dog chooses to curl up next to you or stay nearby while you sleep, they're seeking comfort and
• 09:00 - 09:30 connection. By letting them stay close, you're saying, "You belong here. You're safe with me." Number four, train them using positive reinforcement. Training your dog isn't just about teaching commands. It's one of the best ways to build trust and strengthen your bond. How you train them matters. Positive reinforcement uses rewards to encourage good behavior, making your dog feel safe, confident, and understood. A 2017 study from Tel Aviv University found
• 09:30 - 10:00 that dogs trained using positive reinforcement like treats, praise, or toys had better behavior, less stress, and a stronger connection with their owners. In contrast, punishmentbased methods were linked to fear, anxiety, and damaged relationships. Whether you're teaching sit, stay, or loose leash walking, reward them when they get it right. Keep training sessions short, upbeat, and consistent. Every time you reward your dog, you're telling them, "You did great and I'm proud of you." This approach not only helps them learn
• 10:00 - 10:30 faster, it builds a deeper level of trust, where your dog wants to work with you, not just for you. Number three, match their energy and emotions. Dogs are experts at reading human emotions. They watch your face, body language, and tone of voice and often reflect what they sense. If you're stressed or tense, your dog can feel it. If you're calm and relaxed, they're more likely to be calm, too. A 2019 study from Linkbing University found that dogs and their owners often mirror each
• 10:30 - 11:00 other's stress levels. Over time, your emotional patterns can influence how your dog feels and behaves on a daily basis. This means your presence matters. When you stay calm during walks, training, or new experiences, your dog is more likely to feel safe and confident. If you smile and speak with warmth, they pick up on that, too. Matching their emotional needs doesn't mean copying their energy all the time. It means being aware of how your own mood affects theirs. Showing love
• 11:00 - 11:30 sometimes starts with managing your own emotions. When your dog senses stability in you, they feel more secure around you. Number two, let them fulfill breed specific instincts. Every dog has instincts based on what they were originally bred to do. Ignoring those instincts can lead to frustration and boredom. But when you give your dog a chance to act on them, you're speaking their language and showing them love in a way they truly feel. A 2010 study from
• 11:30 - 12:00 the University of Sydney found that breed specific behaviors are hardwired. Hurting dogs like border collies need tasks or games that involve control and movement. Retrievers are happiest when they have something to fetch and carry. Terriers love to dig and chase. Letting your dog do what comes naturally keeps them mentally and physically healthy. You don't need a farm or a field, just simple games and creative play that match their instinct. That could mean hiding toys for them to find, letting them dig in a sandbox, or setting up
• 12:00 - 12:30 scent trails. Fulfilling their natural drives tells your dog, "I understand who you are." And that level of understanding is one of the deepest forms of love you can offer. Number one, spend uninterrupted quality time. The most powerful way to show your dog love is simple. Just be with them. No phone, no distractions, just you and your dog fully present. A 2012 study from the University of Rosto found that spending calm one-on-one time with your dog
• 12:30 - 13:00 increases oxytocin levels. the same hormone that builds trust and emotional closeness in human relationships. This kind of bonding time helps your dog feel secure and deeply connected to you. It doesn't have to be complicated. Sit together on the couch. Go for a walk without rushing. Lay with them while they nap. What matters is that you're focused on them. Dogs notice when you're engaged, and they notice when you're not. By setting aside just a few minutes each day for real connection, you're
• 13:00 - 13:30 telling your dog, "You matter to me." And for them, that's everything. Love isn't just in what you say. It's in how you act. Dogs don't understand words the way we do, but they understand what you show them through your attention, your actions, and your consistency. Try one of these tips today and see how your dog responds. Whether it's a sniff walk, some quiet time together, or just eye contact after a cuddle, your dog will feel it. Comment below and let us know which one your dog loves the most. And
• 13:30 - 14:00 don't forget to subscribe for more sciencebacked tips to help you build the best bond possible with your dog.