‘I’m a dog expert – this cute gesture means your pet feels like family’

If you’ve got a furry friend at home, you’ll know that they’re not just pets – they are part of the family. Dogs can be faithful companions and pals for years, and because of this, you’ll want them to be as comfortable as possible in your company. 

As much as we may want them to, dogs unfortunately can’t speak to us. Therefore, they often communicate through other ways, such as gestures and behaviours. And according to one expert, there’s one adorable thing that dogs do that means they truly feel like part of the family. 

The animal experts at Pure Pet Food spoke to The Yorkshire Vet Julian Norton to find out the reason why our pets often do this ‘misunderstood’ gesture – nuzzling. 

He said: “People sometimes ask why dogs nudge and nuzzle with their noses. Part of the reason is that dogs really feel part of the family and part of the tribe, and they’re trying to get attention by nuzzling you.

“It’s quite endearing. I think it’s a bit like when dogs come and lick us on our face or hands or that sort of thing. They’re just really wanting to be part of the family and get some attention.”

But nuzzling is just one way that your dog tries to get your attention. The pet experts at Pure have shared three ways your dog might be trying to communicate with you and what these behaviours mean. 

Tail wagging

Many people assume that a wagging tail always means a happy dog. But in reality, a dog’s tail is a powerful communication tool that can signal a range of emotions.

Look at the height, speed and stiffness of the wag. A high and loose wag often means your dog is pleased to see you, while a low, tense wag could mean they are afraid. 

Licking

There are many reasons why your dog might lick you. In the wild, dogs lick the mouths of other pack members to show submission or affection, and the same instinct applies to humans.

If your dog licks your face, hands or even your feet, it may be their way of bonding with you or checking in to see how you are feeling.

Smiling

While dogs don’t smile in the same way humans do, some do pull their lips back in a way that looks like a grin.

When this expression is paired with relaxed, playful body language like a wagging tail it means that they are feeling happy and ready to play.