2. Bringing you a toy means more than just wanting to play.
They want to share something they value with you.
Not only does this mean your dog wants to play with you (a sign of affection in itself!) when your dog brings you his favorite tennis ball, it may also mean he thinks of you as a pack leader.
He may want to please you by offering a squeaky toy or well-worn frisbee … because he thinks you'll like them as much as he does!
According to Lisa Colon Tudor, trainer and owner of Kissable Canine, LLC, “…a dog excitedly bringing its human its favorite toy is a behavior “based on arousal” and extreme excitement. It is this extra energy that manifests itself is in the retrieval and presentation of toys and treasures.
Such behavior not only provides an outlet for overflowing excitement, but as a form of communication from pet to person that can carry multiple messages.
On a physical level, approaching with a toy can serve as a means to diffuse tension. Rather than charging the door and greeting with direct eye contact, which in dog speak can be interpreted as rude or threatening, the dog diverts focus to the object.
This indirect interaction sends a clear, non-threatening message and helps direct subsequent interaction in a positive, often playful, direction.”
Move on to the next page to see even more fascinating and intriguing ways dogs tell you they love you!
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