The Love Languages of Dogs (Yes, They’re Real!)

February 1, 2026

Fact: your dog is absolutely saying “I love you”… just not with words

If you’ve ever fallen down a relationship rabbit hole, you’ve probably heard of love languages. Words of affirmation. Quality time. Physical touch. Gifts. Acts of service. We humans love categorizing how we give and receive affection, and for good reason. Understanding love languages can totally transform relationships.

But here’s the fun twist: dogs have love languages, too.

They might not write heartfelt texts or buy surprise flowers, but our four-legged best friends have very specific (and very adorable) ways of expressing affection, and just as important, receiving it. Once you learn your dog’s love language, everything from training to bonding to everyday life gets even better.

Yes, Dogs Have Love Languages, Just Their Own Version

Dogs communicate through behavior, body language, and routine. That means their love languages don’t look exactly like ours, but they’re absolutely there. Tail wags, following you from room to room, bringing you their slobbery favorite toy? All signs of love, puppy-style.

Experts agree that most dogs fall into five core love languages, inspired by the human version but adapted to how dogs naturally connect.

The Five Love Languages of Dogs 

1. Physical Touch

For many dogs, touch is everything. Belly rubs, ear scratches, and gentle cuddles, these pups feel most loved through affectionate contact. If your dog leans into or presses against you, touch is likely their top love language.

2. Quality Time

Some dogs don’t care what you’re doing… as long as you’re doing it together. Walks, playtime, training sessions, or simply hanging out nearby all count. These dogs thrive on shared moments.

3. Words of Praise

Dogs may not understand every word, but they absolutely understand tone. Happy voices, praise, and verbal encouragement can light them up instantly. If your dog responds strongly to “good boy!” or “good girl!”, this one’s for them.

4. Gifts (a.k.a. Toys & Treats)

For dogs who love gifts, a new toy or tasty treat feels like a love letter. It’s not about spoiling. Rather, it’s about thoughtfulness and enrichment.

5. Acts of Service

Routine, care, and protection matter deeply to dogs. Feeding them, grooming them, keeping them safe, and meeting their needs consistently is a powerful expression of love, especially for dogs who thrive on structure.

Why Knowing Your Dog’s Love Language Matters

Understanding how your dog feels most loved strengthens trust, improves behavior, and deepens your bond. It also helps with training, socialization, and emotional wellbeing, especially for puppies who are learning how the world works.

At Petland, we believe that raising happy, healthy puppies starts with connection. When you learn your dog’s love language, you’re not just being a great pet parent; you’re building a lifelong relationship based on understanding.

Final Paw-sitive Thought

Your dog is loving you every single day. Sometimes with a wag, sometimes with a cuddle, sometimes with a shoe they definitely weren’t supposed to grab. When you learn how they say “I love you,” you’ll never miss it again.

And if you need help finding the perfect toys, treats, or puppy essentials to match your dog’s love language? Petland Janesville, Wisconsin’s got you covered.

Hungry for more? The next chapter’s even better! Follow the paw prints below to keep reading.

Puppy Gratitude: 10 Little Things Our Dogs Do That Deserve a Big Thank You
What Makes Puppies Thrive? The Science of Puppy Happiness