5 Ways Dogs Show Gratitude

Most dog owners will tell you their dog is awesome. They love their dog and their dog seems to reciprocate. But do dogs genuinely feel gratitude or other positive emotions? This question has eluded scientists for a long time.

Breakthrough research conducted by Emory University might change the way people view dogs forever. In the past, scientists had to rely on canine behavior to try to understand dogs. You can’t ask a dog how he or she feels or what they are thinking. But now, modern technology allows us to use brain scans to gain a deeper understanding of what dogs experience. And, it turns out, they have similar emotions to people.

Which leads us to the question of whether dogs experience gratitude. Based on the research, it seems they most likely do.

Here are 5 ways dogs show their gratitude.

1. Smiling

Yes, dogs smile. To see your dog smile, try giving him or her a belly rub or treat. Can you see your dog’s facial expression change? This may be evidence of your dog smiling.

2. Kisses

Licking another dog or human’s face is normal social behavior for dogs. Puppies lick their mother’s face to ask for food, or it can be a way for your dog to show affection, appeasement or solicit attention. Licking your face (akin to giving kisses) is a way dogs show their love and gratitude to you.

3. Tail wags

Tail wagging is one of the most distinct ways dogs communicate with us. It’s simple – but we understand our dog is happy when we see their tail wag.

4. Unconditional love

Your dog loves you unconditionally. He or she will try to comfort you if you’re stressed or sad. If you treat your dog with kindness and communication, he or she will repay you with unconditional love. Many dogs show their gratitude just by staying close to their owner.

5. Protection

Dogs are loyal, protective creatures. Dogs will consider their family to be their pack. They instinctively want to protect their pack because they know their survival is connected to the survival of their pack. It also is a way they show their love, affection and gratitude.

Gratitude in dogs is based on the bond you have with your pooch. Cultivate a trusting and loving relationship between the two of you. Go for a walk together; hike, run, attend training sessions, work on your training lessons between classes, play games and show affection in order to strengthen your bond with your dog.

Although your dog is not able to say “thank you”, know his or her actions speak louder than words. Keep in mind, the ways your dog shows gratitude is truly something for which you can be thankful.

In what ways does your dog express gratitude? Please comment below…