'Avoid' one 'stressful' behaviour if you want to show your pet you love them

Dogs offer unconditional love, which is why they're typically regarded as man's best friend. Our four-legged companions are always sad to see us go. But they become excited when it's time to greet us home, which provides tremendous comfort.

So how do you demonstrate to your dog that you love them back? It can be challenging to grasp how best to connect with our pooches and express how much we cherish them.

Many people regard hugs as the finest way of displaying their affection, but this might not be as warmly received by dogs as you'd anticipate.

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Philip Legood, a dog psychologist and trainer, told Green Pantry: "Whilst cuddling our dogs offers us great comfort, the same can't always be said the other way around.

"Some dogs can actually find hugs quite stressful. Wrapping our arms around them and holding them tightly can feel quite overwhelming and threatening to some dogs, an especially important lesson to teach young children."

Some of the numerous indicators that suggest your dog may not be relishing hugs can include rigid body posture, ears lying flat and back on the head, lip licking, grinning (lips pulled back) and a lifted paw.

Meanwhile, there are also some obvious signals that reveal your dog is content, including relaxed 'floppy' body posture, loose or wagging tail, ears hanging down or slightly forward, a soft face with an open mouth."

With that in mind, Philip has revealed five top tips on how to demonstrate to your dog just how much you adore them...

1. Allow them to explore somewhere fresh

"Dogs love to explore new places, especially when it's an outdoor environment," Philip said. "Changing up their routine and taking them somewhere different for a walk is a great sensory experience for them. Try not to use the same route every day.

"Dogs have a phenomenal sense of smell and can investigate the world around them largely through their nose up to one and a half kilometres away!

"A new location introduces them to so many different smells and exploring in this way is very mentally stimulating, helping them to burn off plenty of energy. A well stimulated dog will sleep soundly after a good walk. For dogs that love to meet new dogs and people, it can also be a great socialising opportunity."

2. Give affection on their terms

"Most dogs love affection from their humans in some form, but allowing them to choose how and when to interact with you is a great way to build trust as all dogs enjoy attention in different ways and amounts," Philip said.

"Your pup might like to be in physical contact with you whilst they sleep, expose their tummy for a gentle belly rub or even snuggle in close to your face. However they choose to show their affection, just embrace the moment and, if you can, spend a few moments appreciating their comfort."

3. Engage their brain

"All dogs have different energy levels but engaging your dog in training or play is a fantastic way to build a strong bond with your best friend," Philip explained. "Many working breeds love to engage in training activities as it fights off boredom and is highly stimulating.

"Play time with your pup can also involve training too. Games such as fetch and tug can be extremely fun and rewarding, but also consider sniffing games, puzzles and even agility training."

4. A delicious and healthy diet

"A healthy dog is a happy dog and you shouldn't underestimate the importance of a good and balanced diet," Philip pointed out. "Feeding your pooch natural dog food with great nutritional value can have a big impact on their mood and energy levels, not to mention keeping them healthy for years to come.

"Food is an easy way to your dog's heart and they'll always appreciate a treat or two. Just be sure to give treats in moderation and ideally as a reward for good behaviour."

5. Respect their boundaries

"Just like us humans, sometimes dogs want to be left alone," Philip concluded. "Your dog will appreciate you respecting their boundaries, especially when they're asleep or eating.

"Giving them space when they need it will help to strengthen your relationship. Sometimes our pups need time to rest and recharge, without us interfering!"