The main component of humans’ fascination and long-term connection with dogs is the bond we can build and share. Developing a relationship with an animal takes time and consistency, but have you ever felt a natural tie with your dog? This bond is essential to live a happy and healthy life with your dog and for so many it comes as easy as breathing but can sometimes be hard to recognize. Here are four easy ways to tell if your dog is bonded to you (or someone else).
  1.     Snuggling Physical touch is huge for dogs and humans alike. As pack animals, dogs are naturally inclined to be physical with those they are close with. If your dog enjoys snuggling you, laying in your clothes, or being within arm’s reach – it’s a surefire sign that you are the apple of his eye (much like he is yours). Take into consideration that a dog who sleeps while cuddling is extremely comfortable in your presence and feels a great deal of safety when around you. Cuddling and sleeping together is the number one indicator that a dog sees you as his person.
  2.     Enthusiastic greeting If when you leave for a minute, or an hour, and you return your dog emphatically greets you with wiggles then let’s just say he may be bonded to you. Excitement to your return home is a good sign that your connection with your dog is strong and healthy. On the flip side, if your dog panics when you leave this may be a sign of unhealthy attachment and separation anxiety – which can be addressed with a trainer and veterinarian.
  3.     Make eye contact. They always say to never look a dog directly in the eye since it can be perceived as threatening. The script flips a little bit here and it’s a good sign of bonding if your dog looks you directly in the eye (in a relaxed manner, of course). This eye contact should be natural and unforced, perhaps when both of you are lounging on the couch.
  4.     Follow you around Velcro or shadow dogs, as they are commonly called, are the dogs that follow your every move. Getting off the couch? He’s coming with you. Using the bathroom? No worries, he’ll join you. A dog shadowing your moves is a clear sign of connection between you and him. While it can be a little annoying, it’s mostly healthy unless it indicates separation anxiety. Your dog should feel confident enough to have some independence, but overall, him following you around is just another sign that he’s bonded to you.