To say "hi" in dog language, use calm body language (side-on approach, loose body), avoid direct eye contact, let the dog sniff you first, and offer gentle pets on the chest or shoulder, respecting their space and observing for positive signs like a loose wagging tail, not fear or stress. Dogs communicate through scents, postures, and subtle cues, not human words, so a relaxed, non-threatening posture is key to a friendly canine greeting.
An hour for a dog feels much longer than an hour for a human because dogs perceive time more slowly due to their faster metabolism and heightened awareness of routines, so a 10-minute wait can feel like 70 minutes to them, and your hour-long absence feels like an eternity, though they don't grasp clock time but rather the intervals between events like meals, walks, and your return.
To say "I love you" in dog language, use soft eye contact, raise your eyebrows, give gentle massages (especially ears), lean into them, and engage in play or shared activities like walks, which build trust and affection through shared experiences and physical connection, releasing oxytocin for both of you.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, outlining three phases: 3 Days (decompression, feeling overwhelmed/scared), 3 Weeks (starting to settle in, learning routine, personality emerges), and 3 Months (feeling secure, bonded, and truly at home). It helps new owners manage expectations and be patient as their rescue dog transitions, emphasizing calm energy, routine, and space in the early days to build trust.
Approach sideways and look using your peripheral vision. Avoid leaning over or towards dogs even when you change position to squat or get up. Avoid reaching your hand out for the dog to sniff. Let the dog approach at his own rate.
The "10 10 10 rule" for dogs refers to two main concepts: a potty training method for puppies (10 mins outside, 10 ft space, 10 mins supervision/reward) and the 80/10/10 guideline for raw feeding (80% muscle meat, 10% bone, 10% organ), both offering structure for training or diet. Another interpretation is the 10% rule for treats, limiting them to 10% of daily calories to maintain a balanced diet, ensuring most nutrition comes from complete dog food.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, treat(s) takes the top spot as our pooches' favourite word, having featured in 35% of all the videos analysed, followed closely by walk or walkies in second place (34%).
Signs Your Dog Loves You
How do they do this? It's biological. All animals have circadian rhythms - physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle, responding to light and darkness in the environment. They may also be affected by factors like temperature and social cues.
Fortunately for us, dogs do not understand they are being put to sleep. They may behave differently at this time generally because they feed off the emotions of their closest humans, who are understandably destraught. Plus they also getting all of this extra attention so they probably wonder what is going on!
Harvard psyhologists reveal that dogs dream of their humans
What you may not have realised however is, according to new research by Harvard psychologists, your dog is likely to be dreaming about you too – their human – the most important thing in their life.
How To Say “No!” In Dog Language (Effectively)
The hardest "commandment" (command) to teach a dog is often considered Recall ("Come"), due to powerful natural instincts to explore or play, followed by impulse control commands like "Leave It/Drop It", and complex obedience actions like the "Finish" (positioning at the handler's side) or "Heel", requiring intense focus and self-control, especially with distractions like other dogs or interesting sights/smells.
Licking: Doggy Kisses as a “Thank You”
Licking is another way dogs express their gratitude. Whether it's a gentle lick on your hand, face, or even your feet, your dog offers “kisses” as a form of appreciation. This behavior stems from puppyhood when dogs lick their mothers to show affection and bond.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, outlining three phases: 3 Days (decompression, feeling overwhelmed/scared), 3 Weeks (starting to settle in, learning routine, personality emerges), and 3 Months (feeling secure, bonded, and truly at home). It helps new owners manage expectations and be patient as their rescue dog transitions, emphasizing calm energy, routine, and space in the early days to build trust.
If your dog is emitting 2-4 barks with pauses in between (frequency & duration) in a low pitch (pitch), this typically means a “Call the pack, there is danger” message from your little one. He notices something strange going on, is playing close attention to it, and is scared that the pack is in danger.
During studies, there were very definite indications that dogs found gentle classical music soothing and calming.
Every pup should know the 7 Basic Common commands: SIT, STAY, DOWN, COME, OFF, HEEL, and NO.
For a dog that is just over 18 months old, you should not leave them alone for more than 4-6 hours, and for adult dogs, around 10 hours is the top limit, especially as dogs should have the opportunity to relieve themselves every 6 hours.
Dogs generally decide whether they are compatible with another dog in approximately 3 seconds, so if your dog's body language is indicating they are comfortable to go in for a greeting and the body language of the other dog also looks good, check with the owner of the other dog and if permission is given, let them go ...
To show your dog you're the leader, provide calm, consistent structure through training, clear rules (like waiting before going through doors or eating), and leading on walks (dog beside or behind you). It's about confidence, not aggression, ensuring your dog feels secure in a balanced environment where you control resources and activities, not by overpowering them but by offering reliable guidance.
Start with simple words that refer to things your dog enjoys. “Dinner,” “treat,” “walk,” or “outside” will naturally grab their attention. Use the word in question and then immediately show your dog what it means. For example, say “carrot” and then give your dog a piece of carrot to munch on.