Dogs may not speak the same language as humans, but their body language, behaviours, and actions can tell you a lot about what’s on their minds. For dog owners, one of the most rewarding experiences is knowing that their pup trusts them wholeheartedly. Trust between pet parents and their furry friends forms the foundation of a strong bond, ensuring a relationship filled with joy, comfort, and mutual respect.

But how can a pet parent really tell if their dog trusts them? And what can you do to strengthen that trust? Here, we explore subtle ways dogs show they trust you and share tips to make your bond even stronger.

Common Signs That Your Dog Trusts You

1. Making and Maintaining Eye Contact

Eye contact in the animal world often signifies trust or acceptance. If your dog actively makes eye contact with you, it means they feel safe in your presence. This is a strong sign of mutual respect and emotional connection.

2. Sleeping Close to You

Dogs only expose themselves to vulnerability when they feel safe. If your dog chooses to sleep close to you or even in the same room, it’s a clear indicator that your pup trusts you and sees you as a pack member. Sharing the bed? That’s next-level trust!

3. They Turn Their Back on You

Yes, it might seem counterintuitive, but when your dog turns their back to you, it’s actually a fantastic way of showing they feel secure in your presence. This behaviour indicates they trust you not to take advantage of their defenceless position.

4. They Stay Close During Walks

Ever notice your dog naturally stays close to you on a walk, even when off the leash? This suggests they consider you their safe point in the world and choose to remain near you out of trust and affection.

5. Bringing You Their Favourite Toy

When your dog brings you their cherished item, like a favourite toy, they’re demonstrating that they value your presence and want to share something special. This shows they feel comfortable and emotionally open with you.

6. A Wagging Tail That Follows You Around

A wagging tail doesn’t always mean pure happiness—it can also signal trust and excitement. If your pup eagerly wags and greets you when you enter the room, they’re showing that your presence matters deeply to them.

7. Relaxed Body Language

Dogs respond strongly to stress, but when they fully relax around you—stretching out, letting their limbs dangle, or exposing their belly—it’s a sign they trust you completely.

8. Excited Behaviour When You Return

Whether you step away for five minutes or five hours, your dog’s enthusiastic greeting when you return is a tell-tale sign of their love and trust. Most dogs show this sign with joy-filled jumps or happy spins.

9. They Follow You Around

Does your dog stay close, even when you’re just walking around the house? This shows that they see you as their safe space and like being in the same room as you.

10. They Bring You “Presents”

Dogs are natural gatherers, and when your pup trusts you, they may bring you presents to show their affection—whether it’s a toy, a stick from the garden, or, occasionally, something unexpected (hello, sock!).

11. Displays of Unconditional Love

No matter your mood, your dog’s affection never wavers. This unconditional love comes from a deep, trusting bond that continues through life’s ups and downs.

12. They Seek Comfort in Your Presence

Whether it’s during a thunderstorm or after a stressful trip to the dog park, dogs who trust their pet parents will come to them, knowing they’ll find comfort and safety.

13. Exhibiting Calm Behaviour When Near You

Even dogs with separation anxiety will begin to relax when their trusted human companions are nearby. Their ability to stay calm is a sign that your presence makes them feel secure.

14. They Initiate Physical Touch

From gentle nudges to hopping onto your lap for a snuggle, dogs initiate physical touch as a form of bonding. This means they trust you enough to seek closeness.

15. Playful Behaviour

If your dog feels comfortable playing with you—bringing you their leash, initiating games, or even having a case of the “zoomies”—they see you as someone they can be themselves around.

16. They Trust You to Feed Them

Trust is built over small acts of care, and feeding your dog consistently and treating them with kindness builds trust over time. Notice how they come to you when it’s time to eat? That’s trust in action. Bonus point if they take food gently from your hand.

17. Willingness to Learn

Dogs who trust their owners are more eager to take part in dog training activities. Positive reinforcement while teaching these lessons is an excellent way to reinforce their faith in you.

18. Leaning or Sitting Against You

Leaning against you when seated or lying down shows a dog’s emotional closeness and the comfort they find in your presence.

19. No Fear of Being Handled

From paw inspections to belly rubs, a dog that allows you to handle them without pulling away displays a high level of trust.

20. Seeking Eye Contact for Approval

When your dog looks to you for reassurance or approval—whether during training or while out at a busy place—it shows they trust your guidance.

How to Build Trust with Your Dog

Building trust doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that requires patience, love, and consistent actions. Here are some fantastic ways to build trust with your dog:

1. Spend Quality Time Together

Whether you’re walking in the park or playing fetch at home, spending quality time together shows your pup they’re a priority in your life. Most dogs thrive on this attention.

2. Practice Positive Reinforcement

Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, or play. Dogs respond to positive reinforcement much better than punishment, which can build fear instead of trust.

3. Understand Canine Communication

Learning to read your dog’s body language—such as a wagging tail, relaxed stance, or fearful posture—will help you respond to their needs effectively.

4. Maintain Consistent Routines

Dogs love routine. Feeding them at the same time, walking them regularly, and keeping a consistent schedule helps instil a sense of stability and trust.

5. Create a Safe Space

Give your furry friend a designated quiet space where they can retreat, especially during overwhelming situations. Dogs feel safer when they know there’s a secure zone for them.

6. Spend Time in the Same Room

Whether you’re reading, working, or watching TV, your silent presence in the same room matters. Simply being there provides comfort and strengthens your bond.

7. Work Through Fears Together

Does your dog fear the vet, strangers, loud noises, or cats? Stay patient and help them work through their fear at their own pace. Trust is built when humans act as reliable protectors.

8. Use Gentle Training Techniques

Harsh commands or physical discipline can damage trust. Instead, use calm, clear instructions and plenty of positive rewards during training sessions.

Strengthen Your Bond Through Mutual Trust

Building and maintaining your dog’s trust is one of the most fulfilling aspects of dog ownership. Every wagging tail, gentle nuzzle, and trusting gaze confirms that your pup has placed their faith in you.

By recognising these subtle signs and practicing actions like spending quality time together, offering positive reinforcement, and understanding your dog’s unique communication style, you can foster a lifelong bond with your furry friend that’s rooted in loyalty, mutual respect, and of course, love.