You and your dog may do nearly everything together, but you’re so much more than a companion to them. You’re a provider, source of comfort and protector, which are all very important roles. Because of that, your dog may view you as a hero, which proves that not all heros wear capes. As someone they admire, it’s your job to guide them through training, behavior and plenty of affection. But how can you know if your dog looks up to you in the first place? There are a few ways you can tell, but because dogs communicate differently, sometimes pet parents can miss the clues. To help you recognize them, we rounded up 7 signs your dog considers you their hero, according to a trainer.

After all, dogs naturally gravitate toward the person who cares for them and gives them a sense of belonging, and over time, that connection can grow into something much deeper. This bond creates the foundation for why certain behaviors emerge when a dog views someone as especially important. When a dog feels secure, their attachment often mirrors a mix of loyalty, admiration and dependence—feelings that can make one person stand out as their “hero.” This dynamic is part of what makes the human–dog relationship so uniquely powerful.

If you’re curious whether or not you’re the one your dog sees as their hero, you’re not alone. Many dog moms and dads wonder what their dog truly thinks of them. The good news is, there are some meaningful patterns that can offer insight. Read to see a few of them.

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7 Signs Your Dog Considers You Their Hero

Every dog is an individual, making it tough to say for sure how your pooch views you. But these are the most common signs your dog looks up to you, thinks you’re a good pet parent and sees you in a heroic way, according to Vivienne Moore, a trainer and owner of Walkies Dog Behaviour & Training.

They like to be around you

One of the clearest signs your dog loves you is that they want to be near you as much as possible. Dogs who view you as their hero often follow you from room to room or stick close while you’re outside, showing their admiration and trust. While some breeds naturally enjoy more personal space, many dogs demonstrate their loyalty and attachment by staying near the person they look up to most—a subtle yet powerful dog behavior sign of their devotion.

They look to you for reassurance

Dogs who view you as their hero often turn to you when they feel uncertain or face a new situation. When something changes or your furbaby is feeling unsure, they may give you a quick glance for reassurance that everything will be alright. “It’s a lovely sign that you matter in their decision-making,” Moore says—showing just how much your dog trusts your guidance and relies on you in their world.

They chill out around you

This may seem like an odd sign, however, dogs who view you as their hero feel safe enough to truly relax in your presence. Just like humans, dogs have a hard time unwinding around people who don’t make them feel comfortable. “Dogs won’t fully switch off around someone they don’t trust,” Moore says. If your dog is flopped on the floor, snoozing peacefully, it’s a clear dog behavior sign that they trust you and feel secure in your company.

They respond to you

Dogs who see you as their hero are attentive to your cues and guidance. “They respond to a gentle voice, a hand gesture, or even a shift in your posture,” Moore says. “This shows they feel safe being guided by you.” When your dog reacts to your signals, it’s a strong dog behavior sign that they trust you and value your leadership.

Related: 8 Heartwarming Signs Your Dog is Happy You’re Home, Say Trainers

They share with you

Dogs who view you as their hero often include you in their favorite activities and possessions. Got a pup who likes to bring you gifts? Bringing dog toys, initiating play and inviting interactions with you, which all show that your pooch trusts you and loves you because they view you as their world.

They can settle down with you

Dogs who view you as their hero often know how to calm themselves when you’re around. Dogs can get worked up (hello, Zoomies!), but they also learn to relax with guidance from the person they trust most. “If your very presence helps them to settle,” Moore says. “That’s a very strong relationship marker.” Being the one who helps your dog feel safe and grounded is exactly what makes you their hero—it shows they rely on you for comfort and stability in moments of excitement or stress.

They feel safe around you

Dogs who view you as their hero often feel secure even in uncertain situations. While dogs are naturally alert to potential threats, your calm presence reassures them that everything is alright. “You are their safe base when they feel unsure,” Moore says. Being the person your dog trusts to protect and guide them is a key reason they see you as their hero. It shows they rely on you for safety, comfort and stability.

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 15, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.