There's a subtle sign your dog truly loves you, but it can only be spotted when they are fast asleep. While dogs have plenty of ways to show affection when awake, one adorable behaviour could reveal just how safe, relaxed and loved they feel around you.
Experts say this tiny action can be a sign your dog feels completely comfortable in your presence and may even consider you their favourite person.
The TikTok video that highlights the behaviour
The sweet behaviour has been highlighted in a TikTok video shared by @amazinganimals.us, which shows a dog performing the adorable action as it drifts off to sleep. The caption reads: "There's a message behind in that few people know about.
"It's one of the greatest signs of love a dog can give, showing they feel totally secure and protected by us. We're often missing this beautiful expression of their gratitude, but now we know to pay attention to it."
How dogs show affection
Shedding light on how dogs show affection towards their owners, specialists at Blue Cross explain that relaxed eye contact, wagging tails, lying close to you, enthusiastic greetings and plenty of licks - called 'mlems' by some owners - are all unmistakable displays of love. Ultimately, if your dog feels at ease around you, it's a strong indication that you're doing something right.
A statement from the Company of Animals explains: "Why do dogs lick you you ask? Dogs use licking to show affection and love. They may lick your face, hands, or even feet as a sign of affection and to bond with you.
"Licking releases endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals in the brain, making the interaction pleasurable for both you and your dog. Sometimes when they lick their lips this can often be a sign of nerves or apprehension but if they're licking you, you can be pretty sure they're doing it to show love!"
Viewer reactions
Responding to the TikTok clip, one viewer commented: "Love the mlems, Best sound in the world cause it means my babies are living their best lives."
Another viewer added: "My dog comes to be every morning to get his face rubs and he mlem the whole time. He's give and a rott x boxer mix."
A third viewer said: "I thought that was just a thing that dogs do when you pet them." One more viewer added: "Both my dogs does it in their sleep and when they wake up."
