{"id":5224,"date":"2026-02-17T02:29:57","date_gmt":"2026-02-17T02:29:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=5224"},"modified":"2026-02-17T02:29:57","modified_gmt":"2026-02-17T02:29:57","slug":"7-signs-your-dog-loves-your-partner-approves-of-them","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=5224","title":{"rendered":"7 Signs Your Dog Loves Your Partner &#038; Approves of Them"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div data-article-body=\"true\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">As a <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/signs-youre-a-great-pet-parent\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:pet parent;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">pet parent<\/a> when someone new enters your life, it\u2019s natural to wonder how to tell if your dog likes your partner. While dogs don\u2019t speak our language, they have their own telltale ways of <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/funny-ways-dogs-talk-to-owners\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:communicating;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">communicating<\/a> and showing approval. They may wag their tail gently, bring over a favorite toy unprompted or simply settle nearby. These aren\u2019t random gestures, but instead positive signs your dog likes your significant other. To help you know what to other clues you can look for, we rounded up 7 signs your dog loves your partner and approves of them, according to trainers.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">After all, a <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/how-to-decode-your-dogs-body-language-according-to-veterinarians\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:dog's body language;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">dog&#8217;s body language<\/a> and behaviors can reveal their true feelings, <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/signs-your-dog-is-in-a-good-mood\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:mood;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">mood <\/a>and comfort level as dogs are highly attuned to energy and emotions, so their reactions often go beyond mere curiosity. That&#8217;s why observing your dog&#8217;s behavior around your significant other is a reliable way to understand attachment, see if your <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/dog-habit-that-shows-they-feel-safe\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:dog feels emotionally secure;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">dog feels emotionally secure<\/a>, and gauge whether your partner fits seamlessly into your pet&#8217;s household.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Paying attention to these hints don\u2019t just help you understand your dog better, but they also guide you towards building a harmonious relationship between everyone in your life. That way, you won&#8217;t be wondering, <em>&#8220;Does my dog like my boyfriend\/girlfriend?&#8221;<\/em> Instead, you\u2019ll be able to recognize the signs your dog truly likes your partner. According to trainers, there are seven clear signs that indicate your partner has your dog\u2019s wholehearted approval. See what they are, below! You may even be surprised by some of them.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/ways-dogs-show-you-matter-to-them\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:9 Ways Dogs Show You Matter to Them &amp; They Love You, According to Trainers;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">9 Ways Dogs Show You Matter to Them &amp; They Love You, According to Trainers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">7 Signs You Dog Approves of Your Significant Other<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Getty Images Westend61\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/cPD7lP.EFNN.TTQm4aHNtQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTU0MDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/parade_pets_articles_328\/106f03726534f55c9fff02cc184fd0e3\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<p>Getty Images Westend61<\/p>\n<p><span>(Getty Images Westend61)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Curious if your pup gives your partner the \u201cdoggy stamp of approval\u201d? No matter if you have a <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/biggest-dog-breeds\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:big dog;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">big dog<\/a> or a <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/small-dog-breeds\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:small dog;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">small dog<\/a>, watching your <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/devoted-dog-breeds\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:devoted pet's;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">devoted pet&#8217;s<\/a> little gestures is a sweet reminder that your partner has earned their trust and love.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">They Have Relaxed Body Language<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">When it comes to dogs bonding with humans, each relationship is different. The first thing <a href=\"https:\/\/pupford.com\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Caitlin Cruz;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Caitlin Cruz<\/a>, head dog trainer at Pupford, looks at to see if a dog is comfortable around someone is their body language. \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/ways-dogs-say-ive-got-you-without-words-experts-say\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Dogs communicate;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Dogs communicate<\/a> through subtle body language cues that can paint a pretty good picture of how your dog is feeling,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">She notes that signs of a relaxed dog include loose muscles, a neutral tail and soft eyes and mouth. On the other hand, a dog that\u2019s nervous or uncomfortable may display a tucked tail, tight or tense mouth, wide eyes and rigid muscles, which can let you know if your pup feels safe and secure around your boyfriend or girlfriend.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">They Choose to Be Near Them<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">If your dog chooses to lie or sit next to your significant other, especially when given the choice to lie with <em>you<\/em> instead, this is a clear sign your dog feels comfortable with your relationship. In fact, it&#8217;s a way to know if your dog trusts your partner. \u201cWhen a dog chooses to sit near, lean against or relax around your partner on their own, it\u2019s a strong <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/signs-your-dog-trusts-you\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:sign of trust;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">sign of trust<\/a>,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ancillaryk9.com\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Dion Studinski;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Dion Studinski<\/a>, founder of Ancillary K9 Dog Training. \u201cDogs tend to keep their distance from people they\u2019re unsure about, so choosing closeness shows comfort and approval.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">They Solicit Attention<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Dog behavior around new people can differ. In fact, if you notice that they are tolerating attention and soliciting attention, those are two different things, Cruz explains. \u201cIf your dog wants more pets after your significant other has stopped touching them or brings over their favorite toy to initiate play, this is a good sign your dog approves of your partner,\u201d she says, noting that these actions are strong signs of positive association.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/companion-dog-breeds\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:These 6 Dog Breeds Are Built-In Companions, According to Vets;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">These 6 Dog Breeds Are Built-In Companions, According to Vets<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">They Respond to Cues from Your Partner<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">When your dog listens to your partner\u2019s voice, responds to simple cues or checks in with them during everyday moments, they\u2019re showing important signs of acceptance. Seeing your pup follow cues or share little moments together is a sweet reminder that your partner has earned their trust and love. \u201cThis behavior indicates that the <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/prettiest-dog-breeds\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:dog;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">dog<\/a> sees your partner as part of their social group rather than just a stranger,\u201d Studinski describes.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">They Cast Longing Looks<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">For <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/shy-dog-breeds\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:dogs that are a bit shy;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">dogs that are a bit shy<\/a> or less confident, you may notice them communicating through subtle behaviors, like gazing at your partner. When a dog is watching someone carefully, it\u2019s their way of checking them out and assessing safety. \u201cThose longing looks can be your dog determining if your partner is safe,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/www.purrfectpawsuniversity.com\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Nicole Kohanski;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Nicole Kohanski<\/a>, founder, head behavior consultant and trainer at Purrfew Paws University. \u201cIt&#8217;s common for a dog to start by watching someone they don&#8217;t know.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">A dog giving these attentive, curious looks is showing trust, emotional awareness, and careful consideration\u2014all signs of a dog who is thoughtful about new relationships. &#8220;Gradually, your dog will increase closeness and graduate to interacting,&#8221; says Kohanski. When that happens and your dog shows affection to your partner, she explains it&#8217;s a sweet signal that your dog approves of them and feels safe letting them into their world.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">They Keep Normal Routines When Your Partner is Around<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">One of the strongest signs your dog approves of your partner is when they maintain their normal routines. If your dog is eating, sleeping, playing and going the bathroom as usual, this is a great way to know that your partner isn\u2019t causing stress or disruption in your dog&#8217;s life. \u201cDogs who aren&#8217;t sure generally will show changes in these everyday behaviors,\u201d says <a href=\"http:\/\/lavendergardenanimalservices.co.uk\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Sian Lawley-Rudd;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Sian Lawley-Rudd<\/a>, certified ethical dog trainer and trauma-informed coach.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">When your dog&#8217;s body language is positive around your SO, it&#8217;s a subtle way your pup is saying, \u201cI like your partner!\u201d and basically a heartwarming sign your dog feels safe.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">They Don\u2019t Feel the Need to Monitor or Control Interactions<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">One clear sign your dog approves of your partner is when they don\u2019t feel the need to guard, monitor, or control interactions. <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/best-guard-dogs-for-women\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Dogs are natural protectors;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Dogs are natural protectors<\/a> of their humans and their space, so behaviors like standing in the way, growling softly, or following your partner constantly can signal caution or uncertainty. \u201cA dog who isn\u2019t hovering, blocking movement or staying hyper-alert is showing they don\u2019t see your partner as a threat or something to manage,\u201d Lawley-Rudd says.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Therefore, when your dog shows <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/calm-dog-breeds\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:calm;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">calm<\/a>, relaxed behavior around your significant other it\u2019s a strong dog body language signal that they feel safe and trust your partner.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"mb-4 text-lg font-bold\">How to Help Your Dog Warm Up to Your Partner<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">While it certainly makes life easier when a dog quickly warms up to a new partner, Studinski says a dog\u2019s immediate approval isn\u2019t the most important goal. \u201cWhat matters most is teaching your <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/signs-your-dog-respects-you\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:dog to be respectful;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">dog to be respectful<\/a> regardless of who they&#8217;re meeting or spending time with,\u201d he explains. \u201cTrust, closeness and bonds tend to develop naturally over time.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Patience is key here. Let your partner offer treats, toys or gentle pets to build positive associations. Short, low-pressure interactions are better than forcing prolonged contact. This helps give your dog a chance to choose the connection themselves. \u201cIt\u2019s important for a new partner to avoid being overbearing or overly permissive towards a dog, as this tends to be a recipe for disaster down the road,\u201d Studinski continues. \u201cWhen a partner is overbearing, dogs often feel pressured, crowded or controlled by someone they don\u2019t yet trust.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Another tip that can help is to keep up consistency with regular walks, play sessions or even sitting together while you read or watch television. These actions can help your pup view your partner as a safe and enjoyable presence. Observe your dog\u2019s comfort cues when they are around your SO and see if they seem tense or back away, give them their space.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Over time, these small, positive experiences build trust and a natural bond, helping your dog feel relaxed and confident enough to eventually welcome your partner as part of the pack.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Sources:<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pupford.com\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Caitlin Cruz;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Caitlin Cruz<\/a>, head dog trainer at Pupford<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ancillaryk9.com\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Dion Studinski;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Dion Studinski<\/a>, founder of Ancillary K9 Dog Training<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purrfectpawsuniversity.com\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Nicole Kohanski;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Nicole Kohanski<\/a>, founder, head behavior consultant and trainer at Purrfew Paws University<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><a href=\"http:\/\/lavendergardenanimalservices.co.uk\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Sian Lawley-Rudd;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Sian Lawley-Rudd<\/a>, certified ethical dog trainer and trauma-informed coach<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><i>This story was originally published by <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\/signs-your-dog-approves-of-your-significant-other\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Parade Pets;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Parade Pets<\/a> on Feb 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the <a href=\"https:\/\/paradepets.com\/dogs\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Dogs;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Dogs<\/a> section. Add Parade Pets as a <a href=\"https:\/\/google.com\/preferences\/source?q=paradepets.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Preferred Source by clicking here.;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Preferred Source by clicking here.<\/a><\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As a pet parent when someone new enters your life, it\u2019s natural to wonder how to tell if your dog likes your partner. While dogs don\u2019t speak our language, they have their own telltale ways of communicating and showing approval. They may wag their tail gently, bring over a favorite toy unprompted or simply settle [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5225,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5224","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pets-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5224","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=5224"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5224\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/5225"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=5224"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=5224"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=5224"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}