A recent study suggests that dogs may physically react to expressions of affection more than we realize. According to research conducted by Canine Cottages, a dog’s heart rate can increase by up to 46% when its owner says the words “I love you.”
Measuring Canine Emotional Responses
The study monitored four dogs over a period of seven days, using specialized heart-rate tracking collars designed for animals. When researchers combined the data, they found that the dogs’ average resting heart rate was 67 beats per minute (bpm).
However, when owners verbally expressed affection by saying “I love you,” the dogs’ heart rates rose sharply, reaching an average of 98 bpm, indicating heightened excitement and emotional arousal.
Cuddling Has a Calming Effect
While verbal affection increased heart rate, physical closeness had the opposite effect. The study showed that cuddling significantly calmed the dogs, reducing their heart rates by 23%, from 67 bpm down to 52 bpm on average.
This contrast suggests that dogs may experience excitement from verbal cues of affection, while physical contact provides reassurance and emotional comfort.
Owners’ Heart Rates Were Also Affected
Researchers didn’t stop with the dogs. The heart rates of the owners were also monitored to observe emotional responses. Results showed that owners’ heart rates increased by an average of 10% when they reunited with their dogs after being apart, highlighting the mutual emotional bond between humans and their pets.
How Dogs Commonly Show Affection
Veterinarian Dr. Heather Venkat, head veterinary nurse at Only Pets Cover, and accredited dog trainer Joe Nutkins identified several clear behaviors that indicate affection and trust in dogs:
- Sitting or curling up close to their owner, including on laps or at their feet
- Wagging their tail, wiggling, or jumping when greeting loved ones
- Bringing toys as an invitation to play
- Exposing their belly or sleeping on their back, signaling trust
- Seeking comfort when in pain by staying close or resting a paw on their owner
These behaviors demonstrate emotional attachment rather than simple obedience.
Expert Perspective
Commenting on the findings, Shannon Keary, campaigns manager at Canine Cottages, explained:
“In the UK we are a nation of dog lovers, but although we know how much we love our pets, we’ve never really known if, or how, our dogs show their affection for us, which is why we conducted this research.”
She added that the results clearly show excitement when dogs hear words of love, and calmness during physical affection, offering measurable evidence of emotional connection.
Why Understanding Dog Behavior Matters
Research into canine emotional responses plays an important role in pet welfare, veterinary care, training methods, and responsible ownership. Better understanding how dogs react to human interaction can improve bonding, reduce stress-related behaviors, and support healthier relationships between pets and their owners.
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