What Your Dog Loves And What They’d Rather Avoid
Ever wonder what goes on in your dog’s head when they curl up in your laundry pile or dart out of the room after hearing a loud sneeze? Canine quirks might seem random, but every tail wag and side-eye tells a story. Some things bring them pure joy, while others? Not so much. Let’s dive into what your dog secretly loves—and what they’d rather avoid!
They Like Warm Laps
A dog’s need for warmth is about more than just comfort; it’s instinctual. When they curl up on your lap, it mirrors the way puppies snuggle with their mother, seeking security. The steady warmth and familiar scent of their human bring a sense of safety. It’s a simple act that strengthens the bond with their favorite person.
They Prefer Soft Voices
Canines do more than listen to words—they tune into tone and energy. A soft voice signals safety and affection to them. Their brains associate gentle speech with positive interactions and acknowledgment of their personhood, which makes them more responsive and eager to engage.
They Don’t Like The Loud Noises You Make
When something loud happens, dogs immediately feel on edge. Their auditory senses are far more sensitive than ours, so what might seem like a small sound to us can be overwhelming for them. Unexpected noises like thunder or fireworks send them into flight mode to safety, sometimes away from their humans.
They Love When Their Meals Are On Time
Routine is more important to dogs than many realize. Scheduled meals provide structure, which is key to their well-being. In the wild, food security is key for survival, so the predictability of mealtime builds trust. Knowing when their next meal is coming not only eases their anticipation but also reduces stress.
The Prefer The Security Of Their Bedtime
Choosing a spot to sleep is instinct-driven. In nature, dogs sleep near their pack for protection, and that behavior carries into domestic life. Whether curled up on the couch or cuddled beside their owner, proximity to you when they rest provides reassurance and gives them a sense of safety that deepens their trust.
They Hate Strong Scents
Dogs’ noses are their superpower, able to detect smells far beyond human capacities. However, strong scents—whether from cleaning products or perfumes—can occasionally be too much for them. These intense aromas can create anxiety and confusion and make dogs feel uneasy and unsettled in what should be a calm environment.
They Love Happy Greetings
No one in your family greets you with more enthusiasm than your dog. Living fully in the moment, they celebrate every reunion, no matter how brief. Whether it’s wagging their tail, spinning in circles, or pressing against you, it’s their way of saying, “You’re back! Everything’s right again!” Their joy is impossible to hide.
They Want A Good Brushing
Grooming isn’t just about the maintenance of their fur. Brush strokes mimic social bonding behaviors seen in the wild, where pack members clean and care for each other. The rhythmic strokes increase circulation, remove loose hair, and trigger feel-good hormones. When done right, it turns a simple task into a ritual.
They Don’t Like Restrictive Hugs
For humans, hugs are a warm show of affection, but for dogs, too much of them can feel like a cage. The sensation of being held tightly can trigger self-preservation actions, as it limits their freedom. While they love closeness, they prefer gentle pets or to sit next to you, where they still have autonomy.
They Prefer Walks
Every step outside is a fresh adventure filled with scents and social signals. A simple sidewalk stroll turns into a sensory experience and keeps them up to date with the neighborhood’s latest happenings. They, too, love a bit of nosy gossip! That’s why even the sound of a leash being picked up sends them into fits of excitement.
They Love The Smell Of Your Clothes
A pile of laundry on the bed? To a dog, it’s like discovering a treasure chest of comforting scents. Each familiar smell brings a sense of emotional security, so they curl up with your worn clothes, soaking in the essence of you. It’s their way of staying close and feeling your presence, even when you’re not there.
They Dislike Cold Baths
Imagine jumping into ice-cold water without a warning—that’s how dogs feel when given a cold bath. Their body temperature is sensitive, and such a shock can make them anxious and uncomfortable. A warm bath, however, can relax them, which turns what’s typically a stressful experience into something more enjoyable.
They Find Hide-And-Seek To Be Fun
Games that engage their mind are as rewarding for them as physical play. Hide-and-seek activates natural tracker instincts, which turns a simple indoor game into a hunt that thrills them. The challenge of sniffing out a hidden person or treat keeps their brain sharp to improve problem-solving skills and deepen human-canine interaction.
They Like It When You Listen
A subtle yawn or lowered ears communicate more than words ever could. When their signals are acknowledged, they feel understood and safe. Mutual respect in communication makes training easier and everyday interactions more harmonious. Thus, “listening” to a dog means being in tune with all of their language displays.
They Don’t Like Costumes
Putting clothes on dogs can be more about human entertainment than their necessities. They don’t understand the fun or the fashion; instead, they feel restricted and awkward. Some might tolerate it for a short while, but most dogs would rather skip the costume and enjoy their natural freedom to move and play.
