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5 Things Dogs Love the Most

There are few things in this world that dogs enjoy more than a fresh meal—but here are five that rank right up there. Understanding what your furry friend loves most can help you strengthen your bond and keep them happy and healthy.

Kimberly-by Bad and Boujee Pets

8/14/20263 min read

Cute Yorkies
Cute Yorkies

5 Things Dogs Love the Most

There are few things in this world that dogs enjoy more than a fresh meal—but here are five that rank right up there. Understanding what your furry friend loves most can help you strengthen your bond and keep them happy and healthy.

1. Your Scent on Everything

Your dog's favorite scent in the whole world is you. And the more of your odor on something, the better.

A dog's sense of smell is exponentially stronger than ours, and for them, a shirt covered in your scent is one of the most comforting objects in the world. When your pup is anxious about being left alone or staying in a kennel, leave them with that never-washed, sweaty gym shirt, and they'll love you for it.

This is why you may often find your dog lying on top of your pile of dirty laundry—your clothing has your scent on it, and dogs always want to feel closer to you.

2. Exploring New Routes and Places

Dogs are curious creatures that love nothing more than sniffing around and exploring their surroundings.

Stop taking your pup on the same walk every day. Mix up your route by simply walking in a different direction now and then. Better yet, drive to a new park or trail and start your walk from there. Your dog will be exposed to new smells, sights, and experiences—a great way to satisfy their instinct to explore and stay active.

When walking, your dog will likely stop frequently to leave urine marks—this is their way of communicating with other dogs and checking their "pee mail." Don't interpret this as a bladder problem; they're simply doing what dogs do naturally.

3. Being Petted in the Right Spots

How your dog prefers being touched matters more than you might think.

A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that dogs show more signs of stress (yawning, freezing, lip licking, elevated heart rates) when petted on the head, muzzle, shoulders, or paws.

However, chest rubs are associated with a decreased heart rate and have a calming effect. This is important: many dog owners assume dogs love belly rubs, but when a dog rolls over and shows their underside, they're in a vulnerable position. Dogs prefer a good, gentle chest rub to a belly rub any day.

Learn where your individual dog enjoys being touched most, and stick with that.

4. Your Happiness and Emotional Presence

Your emotional state matters to your dog more than you realize.

Recent studies have shown that when we get stressed, our dogs get stressed too. Dogs can sense when we're happy or upset using their keen sense of smell and their unique ability to read body language. If you've had a bad day at work, don't be surprised if your pup acts differently.

When your dog notices you're in distress, they'll adjust their behavior to comfort you—approaching gently with their tail lower, showing empathy through their presence. And when you're happy, your dog's behavior reflects that energy too. You'll notice them wagging their tail, jumping up, barking with excitement, and mirroring your joy.

5. A Loving Glance and Making Eye Contact

When it comes to attention, dogs can't seem to get enough—but one type stands out.

Recent studies have shown that making eye contact while cuddling with your dog releases oxytocin (the love hormone) in both of you. Every time you gaze lovingly into your dog's eyes, their levels of oxytocin increase, and so do yours. In fact, this produces the same biological response as a mother looking at her child.

Take a moment, speak softly to your dog, pet them gently, and stare lovingly into their eyes. Just remember: maintain direct eye contact only with dogs who know and trust you. A dog unfamiliar with you is more likely to interpret this as a threat or challenge.

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Bonus: The Word That Gets Their Heart Racing

If you really want to excite your dog, say the word "walkies." A UK study monitoring dogs' heart rates when their favorite phrases were mentioned found that "walkies" takes the top spot—their heart rate increases by 36% just hearing the word.

Other words that make dogs happiest include "treat," "get it," and "fetch."

The takeaway? Your dog loves you and the connection you share. By understanding what truly makes them happy, you can deepen your bond and give your furry friend the life they deserve.