Dog owners often wonder who their four-legged companion favours most. While many believe dogs prefer the person who feeds, walks, and plays with them, experts at Rover suggest the bond runs deeper. Dogs typically bond best with the person who matches their own energy level and personality.
Decoding Dog Tail Wagging and Body Language
Vet Dr James Greenwood, who appears on British TV programme The Pet Show, shared his expertise on how to tell whether you're your dog's top human or just a spare pair of hands. He also offers advice on building a stronger bond with your pet. Dr Greenwood revealed that your dog's tail behaviour is a telltale sign of how they truly feel, and their body language deserves close attention.
He explained: "It's all about the tail with dogs! They can express a whole range of emotions through their tail wag. While it's important to note not all tail wagging is a sign of happiness, there are two types that signal pure joy in our dogs."
Dr Greenwood recommends watching your dog's body language when you arrive home, noting which person they gravitate towards first and what their wagging style looks like. He described two key wags: "Firstly, the whole-body wag that starts at the shoulders and wiggles all the way down to the tip of the tail is quite literally their happy dance. Secondly, the helicopter tail wag is usually reserved for those who are viewed as especially important."
He added: "Finally, that super excited greeting when you get back from leaving the house – the jumping and licking, sometimes they may bark or bring you a toy – is a genuine signal that they are pleased to see you."
Signs of Affection and Bonding
Dogs might also choose their favourite owner as their cuddle companion during evening sofa sessions. Dr Greenwood explained that if your pet approaches you of their own accord, it's an unmistakable sign they adore you and believe you'll protect them while they relax.
Regarding strengthening your relationship with your pet, Dr Greenwood advises dedicating quality time to them. He said: "A daily walk is essential; dogs love using their senses to smell and explore and need to burn off calories exercising. I would also suggest setting up an obstacle course or using puzzle feeders to get them thinking and problem-solving. Food is also a big motivator for dogs and you can use this to your advantage when training by using treats as a reward for good behaviour."
Pet Owners Share Their Stories
Pet owners flocked to social media to reveal their own methods to tell a dog has chosen you as their person. One Reddit user said: "My oldest dog was actually adopted for my son, but she has definitely chosen me as her person. She comes to me for comfort when she's scared, she sleeps in my bed, and gets extremely jealous when our cats and younger pup try to be near me."
Another user shared: "Our younger dog sings the craziest song whenever she sees my daughter's cat pull into our driveway. She acts like my daughter has been gone for a year, and rears up on her little hind legs, puts her paws together, and prances when she sees her come in the door. It's heartwarming."
A further user recalled: "Mine definitely has a favourite. I feed, walk, and spend most of the time with our boy but if I come home with my wife, no matter how far behind she is when I open the door, he'll beeline for her without ever recognising I exist for a couple of minutes."
