A vet has shared what it really means when your dog greets you in a certain way.
Dogs have cultivated the reputation of being “man’s best friend” over the years thanks to their loyalty and deep love for their owners. Many people are keen to welcome a dog into their family, and most like to think they perfectly understand what their pet is thinking and feeling.
According to experts, a dog’s method of greeting their owner upon returning home offers great insight into their emotions and bond with them.
Reunion videos between dogs and their humans are a firm favourite on social media, racking up millions of views. One popular video on TikTok has amassed more than six million views, with hundreds of thousands of likes and comments from people praising the bond between pets and their owners.
With that in mind, TrustedHousesitters – the global pet-sitting community working to keep pets happy at home – teamed up with vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan to decode what your pet’s reactions really say about your relationship, and how best to respond to ensure a healthy separation and reunion.
The vet looked into the five most common pet greetings and what they could reveal.
Characterised by lots of jumping, barking, running in circles, or even a little accidental urination, this welcome can signify pent-up energy and a strong attachment.
Dr MacMillan explained: “Your arrival home can send their excitement into overdrive, especially if you greet them with a high-pitched voice and enthusiastic body language.
“Some dogs will accidentally pee when they are overexcited, especially puppies and young dogs.”
Owners are advised to respond calmly, keeping greetings low-key to help encourage more relaxed behaviour in the future.
Dr MacMillan explained some pets may display shy or bashful behaviour, which could be a form of submissive behaviour. It doesn’t mean they’re not pleased to see you, either.
“Your [pet] sees you as their leader, and they are greeting you in a respectful manner,” she said.
The vet suggests getting down on their level and using a soothing tone to reassure them.
Pets often bring toys or gifts as a way to engage with their owners. Dogs usually do this as a request to play, while cats might deliver "presents" as an expression of affection.
Dr MacMillan explained: “It’s their way of trying to engage with you immediately.
“They may have even been a bit bored while you were out and are now ready for a play session or some exercise.”
Dr MacMillan added: “The way you react can also reinforce this behaviour. If they know that bringing you a toy is likely to elicit a good response from you, they will continue to do it each time.”
Surprisingly, a pet’s indifference to your arrival home could signal their contentment with their own company.
The vet said: “It shows that they don’t consider your arrival and departure as a big deal and that they are happy in their own company. This means behavioural issues like separation anxiety are less likely to affect them.”
If this is a new behaviour though, or is accompanied by other signs of depression, it’s worth booking a check-in with your vet.
A pet making noise upon your arrival home is an attempt at communication. Different sounds and tones can convey different emotions.
It’s advisable to pay close attention to the “the tone and body language accompanying it” to best decipher its meaning. With a dog, if they’re pacing while their ears are pinned, it’s typically a sign they need some comfort or space.
If they’re displaying a happy tail wag, it usually means they’re excited.
