15 Signs Your Dog Considers You Its Mother
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Published 2023-06-03
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.
All Comments (21)
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There is NOTHING in the world better than a dog!
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i got my puppy after coming out of a mental hospital because apparently they are good for depression. he’s changed my life. i feel less depression. he makes me smile. i feel unconditional love from him. he cares about me. i want to protect him and love him. They are one of the sweetest creatures. i wouldn’t be suprised if they increase human lifespan
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The more I now about people, the more I love my dog.
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This is a pure description of the bond between me and our family dog. We got him when he was 8 months old, and at the time he slept in a cage. The first night he cried the entire time, so I(I was 11 or something at the time) took my pillow and blanket and laid next to him, on the floor, for the entire night. I remember him putting his little snout in the corner closest to my face and the morning after he wouldn’t leave me alone. He is the best thing to ever happen to me. Now, 8 years later, he is still by my side through everything; He didn’t leave my bedside more then absolutely necessary when I had cancer, and had to be convinced to go out to pee and such. He is the kindest soul and a true blessing<3
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My husband was in hospice care at home.our fur baby ,who hadn’t left his side for 4 days,went to the other room ,brought back his favorite toy,laid it by Jeff’s head. Five minutes later Jeff passed away. Dogs know much more than we suspect..
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I never liked dogs. I still dont like other people's dogs, BUT, 3 years ago an 8 week old german shepherd wiggled his way into my heart and ive never looked back. He is the best thing to ever come into my life.
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Last week I had a stomach bug and was groaning . My new dog laid outside the bathroom door and mimicked my groans. Lol, I’ve never felt so loved.
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Just adopted an older dog October 7th…..I have noticed she loves my clothes on the bed…she sleeps between my hubby, and myself between pillows! Spends time everyday licking my arm! I am feeling loved….Rivy is a Maltese Mix! I am 77 and chose a 10 yr old when I rescued!
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Seriously, no kidding, I have been through a massive amount of death in the last five years and was TOTALLY broken. My two labs i got brought me back from the dead with their love. They do all of these ❤
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I swear we humans don't deserve these beautiful and loyal beings but I'm grateful and honored to have them in my life. I have 3 German shepherds.
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Dogs are Gods special angels assigned to us unconditional love ❤️
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My boy passed away last week after battling kidney failure. I love and miss you Percy 💔
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There is nothing like the real love of a dog, it is real and for life. Something very rare in life.
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Don’t you love when every item he says apply to you and your dog? 🥰❤️
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My dog and I had a bond unlike any other animal I have ever had…she was my everything. We had her for 17 years and lost her to cancer in January. 😢 I miss her so much…
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Now that we know how much they love and respect us, let’s not forget to do the same to them
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Dogs over people anyday 🐶
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I would rather have a dog in my life than any human. Dogs are genuine, unconditional love. They don’t care what you live in what you drive or wear, they don’t care if you are rich or poor, what religion you are, or what color you are. They won’t talk behind your back or use you up and then look for another source of whatever. If you are looking for TRUE love get a dog. Give them their best life they deserve it
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Lost my little boy almost a year ago now and I still think of him every day! I miss him so much, he was my soul dog. I know he’s still with me. I can see him, smell him, feel is fur in my mind like it was yesterday
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My Labrador wasn't even fully grown and spun on a dime on a late night walk. I turned to see why and a guy had walked up on us from behind with a ski mask on. My dog didn't bark but he didn't have too. I backed into an apartment doorstep that was lit up and reached behind me like I gripped a pistol. The guy thought about it and left. We promptly went home. My dog saved my life that night. I'm sure of it. I didn't have a pistol...
