Health & Diet
If Dogs Could Talk: 15 Things They’d Want You to Know
While we may not share the same language, our dogs speak volumes through their body language and facial expressions. From wagging tails to those irresistible puppy eyes, your furry friend has plenty to say—you just need to learn how to listen.
Here are 15 things your dog would love to tell you if you understood!
1. “Yes, I Love You”
Ever wonder if your dog truly loves you? The answer is a resounding yes!
While their understanding of love might differ from ours, studies show that dogs experience a surge of oxytocin levels—the “love hormone”—when they interact with their favorite person.
This chemical boost creates secure bonds and reinforces the joy they feel in your presence.
You can spot signs of affection in their actions, like quick tail wagging or warm, soft eye contact. These gestures are your dog’s way of saying, “You’re my favorite!”
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2. “No, I Don’t Feel Guilty”
Does your dog’s “guilty” face tug at your heartstrings? Those drooped ears, lowered head, and avoiding eyes might look like remorse, but it’s not what you think
See, our canine companions don’t feel guilt the way humans do. Instead, that reaction is an appeasement signal—your dog’s way of calming you down when they sense your displeasure.
Rather than dwelling on unwanted behaviors, focus on teaching your dog what you’d like them to do instead. Remember, dogs live in the moment and thrive on clear, positive guidance.
Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog Thinks it’s the Boss
3. “I Know You’re Having a Bad Day”
Your dog isn’t just a loyal companion—they have an incredible ability to sense your emotions.
As pack animals with a deep connection with humans, they pick up on subtle cues like changes in your tone, posture, and even scent when you’re stressed or upset.
This bond of trust means your pups adjust their behaviors accordingly. Your emotions affect them, so strive to create a positive environment for your furry friend!
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4. “Talk To Me Like a Baby”
Ever find yourself using baby talk with your furry companion?
It turns out that dogs don’t just tolerate it—they often respond positively to this higher-pitched, simplified language, known as “pet-directed speech” or PDS.
A study in animal cognition revealed that this style of communication grabs their attention and strengthens bonds.
But your tone of voice matters too.
Dogs are highly attuned to emotions and can sense whether you’re happy, calm, or upset. Speaking kindly to your pooch isn’t just cute—it’s a key part of building trust and connection!
Read Next: 10 Everyday Things That Hurt Your Dog’s Feelings
5. “I Miss You When You’re Late”
While dogs can’t read clocks, their sense of routine is spot-on. Your furry friend picks up on daily patterns, from your vehicle arriving to the sound of the door unlocking.
When you’re late, they notice—and they miss you. So, whenever possible, try to stick to your routine—your loyal companion cherishes every moment with you.
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6. “Give Me Fun Toys”
Your dog treasures their prized possessions just as much as you value yours. Toys, in particular, are a source of joy and comfort for them.
However, if your pup starts eyeing your shoes, it might be their way of saying they need more attention—or better toys!
Puzzle toys are a fantastic option, providing the mental stimulation dogs crave while satisfying their love of a challenge.
Keeping your furry friend entertained not only strengthens your doggy connection but also saves your Jordans from becoming a chewy snack!
Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog is Definitely Mad at You
7. “Stop the Cuddles”
While dogs love physical affection like pats, rubs, and butt scritches, hugs are a different story.
For many dogs, being wrapped up in a hug can actually make them anxious. The feeling of being trapped, combined with the close physical contact and direct stare, can be overwhelming.
Instead of hugging, try showing love in ways that make them feel comfortable, like gentle pats or allowing them to rest their entire body next to yours.
Let your dog enjoy your affection without feeling cornered.
Read Next: 10 Surprising Things Dogs Hate that Owners Don’t Know
8. “Take the Outfits Off”
While dressing up your dog for a puppy party might seem cute, your beloved companion may not be a fan of wearing outfits.
Unless you’ve gradually introduced clothing, or your dog was accustomed to it as a puppy, chances are they’ll be uncomfortable in costumes or clothes.
Some dogs tolerate shirts but may balk at hats or shoes. If you need to dress them for warmth, start slow and reward them with treats.
Watch their body language—if they’re not enjoying it, it’s time to call it quits.
Read Next: 10 Ways to Improve Your Relationship With Your Dog
9. “Please, Don’t Yell at Me”
No one enjoys being yelled at—not even your dog. While dogs may not fully understand the words you use, they are keenly aware of your emotions.
Yelling or harsh punishment can cause fear and stress, damaging your bond.
Positive reinforcement is the key to effective training. Instead of shouting, redirect your dog to desired behaviors with commands like “drop it” or “come”.
Rewarding good behavior helps your dog feel secure and more likely to listen.
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10. “I Hate It When You Ignore Me”
Dogs are social animals, and they thrive on attention and companionship. When left alone for too long, some dogs can develop separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior.
To keep your dog happy and secure, make quality time a priority. Set aside dedicated playtime and ensure they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Your dog’s affection grows stronger when they feel seen and valued in your daily routine.
Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog Doesn’t Love You and What to do about it
11. “Walks Mean the World to Me”
Nothing excites a dog quite like the jingle of a leash. Walks aren’t just bathroom breaks—they’re opportunities to explore the world through scent, sound, and sight. Sniffing that tree for five whole minutes? That’s your dog’s version of scrolling social media. Regular walks give them exercise, enrichment, and happiness, all bundled into one.
12. “I Understand More Words Than You Think”
Sure, your dog might not follow every conversation, but don’t underestimate their vocabulary. Studies show that many dogs can recognize up to 200 words and phrases. They also rely on tone and body language, which makes them expert readers of human moods. So yes, they probably do know when you’re spelling W-A-L-K.
13. “I Get Bored Too”
Just like humans, dogs can become restless without enough stimulation. When you come home to a shredded pillow or an upended trash can, it’s often their way of saying, “I need more to do.” Games, puzzle feeders, and training sessions keep their minds active—and keep your shoes safe.
14. “My Nose Is My Superpower”
Dogs experience the world through scent far more than sight. Their noses can detect things at concentrations millions of times lower than ours. From sniffing out your mood to finding a missing treat under the couch, they rely on smell to navigate life. Giving your pup chances to sniff freely on walks is like letting them read the day’s newspaper.
15. “I Treasure Quiet Time With You”
It doesn’t always have to be play, walks, or training. Sometimes, your dog just wants to curl up beside you and soak up the calm. That shared silence—whether you’re reading, watching TV, or working on your laptop—means as much to them as a long game of fetch. To your pup, presence is love.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your dog can be a challenge since we don’t speak the same language. Despite our best efforts, some things we do may irritate our canine companions without us realizing it.
From hugs to changes in routine, dogs have their preferences, and they express them in ways we might not always catch.
That said, by being mindful of their needs and paying attention to their behavior, we can create a stronger, more harmonious bond with our furry friends.
Read Next: 10 Reasons Dogs Make Better Pets than Cats
Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend
Are you wondering if your furry friend sees you as more than just a provider of food and belly rubs?
As social creatures, dogs form strong bonds with their human companions. And they have unique ways of telling you ILY.
Want to know if you’ve hit BFF status with your pup? Below are 10 signs your dog considers you its best friend!
10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend
Read Next: 10 Myths About Dogs Your Should Stop Believing
Dog owners know what it’s like to be constantly bombarded with advice, tips, and stories from fellow pet parents.
Some of these pieces of information are helpful, while others have been passed down through generations but have little truth to them.
Over the years, I’ve heard countless myths about dogs—some that even I believed until I dug deeper.
Understanding what’s true and what’s simply misinformation can make all the difference in how we care for our dogs.
In this article, I’ll debunk 10 common myths about dogs that you should stop believing right now.
10 Myths about Dogs You Should Stop Believing
Read Next: 10 Things Your Dog Will Never Forgive
Dogs are often praised for their loyalty and endless love, but even the most forgiving dogs have limits!
There are certain things they won’t forget, and understanding these “unforgivable” moments can make all the difference in your bond with them.
You can create a more beautiful life for your furry companion by tuning in to what bothers them most, So, here are 10 things your dog will never forgive—no matter how hard you try to make it up to them!
10 Things Your Dog Will Never Forgive
Amanda O’Brien is the owner of The Dog Snobs website. She is dog mad and dog aunt to Clover in London and Poppy in Sydney. She can’t wait to have a schedule that allows her to have a dog of her own (for now it is two Siberian cats) and loves learning about dog breeds and dog behavior.