15 Telltale Clues To Know If Your Dog Trusts You Or Not

Trust shows up in the smallest details when your dog can’t exactly talk. Some behaviors signal deep security, while others might even reveal hesitation. Understanding these clues strengthens your bond and prevents miscommunication. So, read on and find out where you stand.

Sleeping Near You Means You’re Their Sanctuary

Dogs prefer sleeping near their trusted humans due to their pack instincts. Studies on canine behavior suggest that dogs seek closeness to individuals they associate with safety and comfort. If your pup curls up nearby, it signifies you’re their safe zone.

Holding Eye Contact Releases Their “Love Hormone”

Locked eyes between a canine and their human can actually trigger an oxytocin surge, which strengthens their emotional connection. A 2015 study published in “Science” found that mutual gazes between dogs and their humans increased oxytocin levels—130% in dogs and 300% in owners—mimicking the attachment between a parent and child.

Rolling Over Shows Total Vulnerability

While rolling over can be an indication of trust, it may also be a displacement behavior in stressful situations. Experts suggest that dogs may roll over to defuse tension rather than display comfort, based on the context.

Bringing You Their Favorite Toy Is An Indication Of Deep Affection

Dogs tend to present toys to their owners as a request for play rather than as a “gift.” It should be noted that this is due to learned reinforcement and not an inborn mentality. Play with them, and you’ve definitely earned their love.

A Right-Sided Tail Wag Signals Positive Emotions

Not all wags of the tail equal happiness. A 2013 study by the University of Trento found that dogs wag their tails to the right more when encountering a person they trust. If that right-biased tail greets you, it’s tied to left-brain activity, meaning comfort and happiness.

Leaning Against You Feels Like A Hug In Their World

Dogs do not hug like humans. Pressing their weight against you, though, is close. Behaviorists say that this is an indication of trust and reassurance. If your dog leans their entire weight into you when sleeping or standing, they might find comfort and security in being around you.

Seeking You Out When They’re Anxious Means You’re Their Protector

Thunderstorms, loud sounds, or strange visitors can disturb a dog. Some dogs turn to their reliable person for comfort, while others will hide. Veterinary behaviorists say that dogs who go to their owners in times of stress tend to view them as a safe haven and source of comfort.

Excited Zoomies After You Get Home Are A Major Trust Signal

Ever walked through the door and caught your dog doing zoomies like they won the lottery? That surging of crazy energy, combined with play bows and happy spins, is usually a sign of joy and excitement. Not all dogs do this because each one expresses happiness differently.

Avoiding Eye Contact Could Mean They Feel Uneasy

A dog refusing to look into your eyes is not merely being shy—it is consciously shying away. On the advice of certified trainers, avoidance of eyes is a visible social cue indicating discomfort. Your dog might be anxious or conflict-averse if they consistently evaded your glare.

Hesitating To Eat Near You Signals Discomfort

Canines that will not eat in front of their owner might be feeling general stress, anxiety, or environmental distress as opposed to an issue with trust per se. Professionals recommend considering broader context clues prior to presuming an underlying behavioral issue.

Reluctance To Engage In Play

Consistent avoidance of playtime or interactive activities may signal discomfort or lack of trust in your dog. Play is a bonding activity; reluctance can indicate underlying issues in your relationship. Additionally, pain or discomfort can reduce a dog’s motivation for interaction.

Growling Or Snapping Is A Final Warning

Growling is not aggression—it’s communication. When a dog growls at you, they’re setting a boundary, possibly because they feel unsure or unsettled. As per the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, ignoring these warnings erodes trust and can escalate behavioral challenges.

A Curled Tail And Stiff Posture Indicate Nervousness

Body language speaks louder than sounds, and if your dog freezes or curls its tail when you approach, it’s a clear stress response. Dogs in this state are assessing the situation, unsure how to react to the scenario.

Yawning And Lip Licking Around You Are Stress Indicators

Dogs don’t only yawn when they are tired. Specialists mention that over-yawning and lip-licking in front of their owner can be a sign of underlying tension. These actions can manifest in dogs who are stressed or unsure about their surroundings.

Ignoring Commands And Turning Away Are Signs Of Detachment

Dogs can refuse to obey when they do not trust you. Don’t worry; it can also be because they are confused. Research on dog behavior indicates that inconsistent reinforcement, ambiguous cues, and environmental influences all contribute to dogs failing to respond reliably to commands.