Vet explains the real reason that dogs wag with their tails – and it doesn’t always mean they are happy

Natasha Watson, a vet at Vetfone, previously unveiled in different ways in which your dog shows, including:

1. Wagden with their tail

While dogs use their tail to communicate many different emotions, a somewhat upright side-to-slow WAG can indicate happiness and satisfaction, according to Natasha.

If your dog greets you when you walk into the room with this kind of happy tailwag, that is a clear sign that they love you and be happy to see you.

And if you get a ‘helicopter’ tail – where the tail of a dog moves in a fast, circular movement – then they are more than a bit excited to see you.

2. Eye contact

Dogs that feel trust and affection towards their owners often make long -term eye contact.

Research has shown that when a dog looks at you, it can cause the release of oxytocin, the ‘love hormone’, both in the dog and the owner. So if your dog looks at you with soft eyes, it is a clear sign of their love.

3. They present your toys

According to research conducted by Tesco Insurance, 31 percent of dog owners report that their puppy shares their toys with them.

Most dogs are good jury members, so if your hairy companion brings you a toy to play, then it is a sign that you have reached an unconditional level of trust and love with them.

4. Being close by

Dogs will hug and lean on people they feel comfortable with.

In fact, 39 percent of dog owners report that their puppy will shower them with hugs and kisses – and this rises to 41 percent when owners are upset.

This is because hugs bring back feelings of motherly proximity and release pheromones that calm the dog.

5. They follow you

If your dog follows you from room to room, they probably show affection.

This behavior means that they want to be in your area and, because dogs are naturally animals, it is a sign of attachment or loyalty. Although this can be cute, your dog should still be able to have some time.

6. Protection

Dogs are naturally protective of those they love. Natasha explains that if your dog shows signs to guard you or their house, this can be a sign of affection. They want to keep you safe and show loyalty and love.

7. ‘Talk’ to you

Dogs communicate with their owners in different ways, and vocalizations are one of them, according to veterinarian Natasha Watson.

Although some breeds are more vocal than others, many dogs will ‘talk’ with their owners with barking or whining to get attention or express emotions.

If your dog barks or makes sounds when they see you or during moments of excitement, this can be a sign of love and attachment.

8. Ston up

Although the jump can sometimes be seen as a sign of excitement or a way to get attention, it is also a usual way in which dogs show affection.

When your dog jumps on you, they can just express their joy to see you or look for proximity.

Likewise, almost half (45 percent) of the dog owners say that their hairy companion is on them if they want attention.

9. Recall and train

Natasha says that dogs that respond well to recall and commands often want to please their owners. Their willingness to obey shows trust and a desire to make you happy.

Training strengthens your band while dogs enjoy the positive reinforcement and the satisfaction to make you proud.

Your dog wants to please you and receive its reward, so give them an extra special earwrder the next time they come back when they are called.

10. Mirroring of your emotions

Dogs are remarkably empathetic creatures. If your dog reflects your emotions, this is a sign that they love you.

Natasha points out that they can feel if you are upset or happy and adjust their behavior accordingly.

For example, if you feel, your dog can sit with you or offer comfort.