The bond between dogs and people is unlike anything else, especially once the animal learns to trust people. Sometimes though, dogs can take this special bond to a whole new level. Dogs can imprint on people--which means that they get extremely attached to their human.
There are tons of ways a dog can show their love, but there are a few specific behaviors do indicate imprinting.
In this video, we will talk about 15 signs that indicate your pup has developed that extra special bond with you.
You have a little four-legged shadow
Following you around the house is one of the most common signals that your dog has imprinted on you. Dogs have a tendency to stay close to the pack members they trust. If your dog follows you to the bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen, then you and your dog have developed a deep attachment. It shows how much your pet enjoys being in your presence. Your dog sees you as a valued member of its pack and wants to be close to you as much as possible.
On that note, keep in mind if your canine friend insists on maintaining a distance from you, then there's a good chance your pet feels uncomfortable around you, and you may want to look into figuring out why.
Preference for Your Company
If your dog shows a consistent preference for your company over others, it could be a sign of imprinting. They may ignore or show less interest in other family members, friends, or even strangers, focusing their attention primarily on you. Imprinted dogs find comfort, safety, and happiness in your presence, which leads them to prioritize your companionship above all else.
They follow your commands easier than someone else in the house
A well-trained dog listens to commands from most people, but if your dog has imprinted on you, they’ll listen to you more. High responsiveness is a positive sign that your dog has bonded with you deeply because they’re trying to please you.
It is important to remember that training a dog is not only about the dog itself but also about the bond shared between both the dog and the owner. If a dog doesn’t trust their owner, they are less likely to respond well to training.
They lean against you when they are in new environments
If your dog comes up to you and lean their body weight against you, or perhaps cuddle against your side, they are showing affection. For many dogs, the lean is like a full-body hug.
In some cases, dogs lean against you when they are in an unfamiliar environment. This means they are nervous. So they lean on you for security and backing.
Similarly, your dog may sit on your feet as a means of seeking protection when they are in an unfamiliar environment. They are looking at you to protect them because they feel safe with you. In other words, your dog considers you a reliable and protective figure in their life.
They mirror your behavior and mood
New studies have shown that when humans cry, their dogs also feel distress. Dogs who share a deep emotional bond with their humans often mirror their emotions and overall mood.
If you’re having a rough day, you will often find your canine companion coming up to you and nuzzling or trying to cuddle with you - it’s their way of showing empathy and comforting you. In some cases, dogs may even experience feelings of depression when their owners are going through a period of depression.
They snuggle with your belongings
You have probably noticed that your dog carries your laundry or shoes around the house.
Dogs have a highly developed sense of smell, and they associate your scent with comfort, safety, and the feeling of being close to you. When they steal your items or sleep on your belongings, such as your clothes, pillows, or blankets, it's their way of seeking comfort and being close to you. This behavior demonstrates their strong attachment to you and their longing to be near you. It's their way of expressing their love.
They glance at you frequently, especially in new environments
If your dog "checks in" on you during a walk, from another room, or in a new environment, it's a sign they love you and that they are making sure you're nearby. You may also notice they may randomly pop in to check on you, then go back to their own activities, like sleeping. This behavior demonstrates their deep attachment. It’s a sign that they have imprinted!
You’re their sleep buddy
Dogs are very concerned about their safety and won’t sleep where they aren’t sure about their surroundings. If your dog has imprinted on you, they may take their spot next to you and snuggle up close. This means they consider you part of their pack.
If your dog sleeps with you, it’s a sign of trust, love, and security; all signs that your dog has imprinted on you and considers you part of their family.