As a dog owner, one of the best feelings in the world is knowing that your pup trusts you. Trust is a vital aspect of any relationship, including the one shared between you and your furry friend.

But how can you tell if your pup trusts you? In this article, we’ll discuss ten signs that your dog trusts you, and what you can do to strengthen that bond.

1. They Make Direct Eye Contact

In the dog world, direct eye contact is a sign of respect and trust. When your pup looks you in the eye, it’s a sign that they feel safe and comfortable around you.

If your dog is avoiding eye contact, it may be a sign that they’re scared or anxious. However, it’s essential to note that some dogs might not like direct eye contact. It’s common for dogs to avert their gaze when they feel overwhelmed, nervous, or intimidated. So, it’s essential to read your dog’s body language and understand their personality.

2. They Show Affection

Dogs are renowned for their loyalty and affection, and when your pup trusts you, they’ll show it in various ways. Tail wagging, licking, and cuddling are all signs that your dog feels comfortable around you.

You’ll also notice that your dog will seek out your attention and be more responsive to your touch.

3. They Follow Your Commands

When your dog trusts you, they’ll follow your commands more readily. Dogs that are unsure or scared might not listen to your cues or follow through with commands.

But when your dog feels safe and trusting, they’ll be more inclined to obey your orders.

4. They Lean on You

Dogs are social creatures, and they crave social interaction. When your pup leans on you, it’s a sign that they trust you and feel comfortable in your presence. It’s also a sign that they see you as a strong and stable figure in their life.

5. They Are Relaxed and Calm

When your dog trusts you, they’ll be more relaxed and calm in your presence. They won’t show signs of anxiety or fear, and they’ll be able to let their guard down.

Dogs that are anxious or afraid might display behaviors like pacing, panting, or excessive barking.

6. They Play with You

Playing is a crucial part of a dog’s life, and when your pup trusts you, they’ll be more likely to play with you. Playing also helps to build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Dogs that are anxious or afraid might not feel comfortable playing, and they might shy away from physical interactions.

7. They Allow You to Touch Them

When your dog trusts you, they’ll allow you to touch them without showing any signs of discomfort. You’ll be able to pet them, scratch them behind the ears, or give them belly rubs without any problems.

But if your dog is scared or anxious, they might not let you touch them or might flinch when you try.

8. They Listen to Your Voice

Dogs are incredibly receptive to human voices, especially when it comes to their owners. When your dog trusts you, they’ll listen to your voice and respond to your tone.

You’ll also notice that your dog will pay more attention to your voice than to other noises in the environment.

9. They Protect You

Dogs are natural protectors, and when they trust you, they’ll see it as their duty to protect you from harm.

You’ll notice that your dog will be wary of strangers, and they’ll be more alert when you’re in new or unfamiliar surroundings. They’ll also be more likely to bark or growl if they perceive a threat to your safety.

10. They Show Deference

Dogs that trust their owners will show deference in various ways. They might lower their head, roll over on their back, or offer a submissive posture.

These behaviors are all signs of respect and trust, and they show that your dog feels comfortable and safe in your presence.

Conclusion

Overall, there are many ways to tell if your pup trusts you. From direct eye contact to showing affection and playing with you, your dog will display many behaviors that indicate they feel safe and comfortable in your presence.

Remember, building trust is an ongoing process, and it’s essential to maintain that bond by spending quality time with your dog and treating them with love and respect.