8 Clear Indicators Your Dog Loves Your Partner and Wants You to Keep Them Around

Here are eight signs that show your dog has affection for your boyfriend or girlfriend.

A dog's tail reveals a lot! A wagging tail signals a positive reaction, whereas a stiff tail tucked between the legs signals a strong negative response. Similarly, ears pinned back indicate discomfort. This could mean you might be about to have sushi with someone who isn’t right for you, so it’s worth reconsidering your choice.

If your dog meets someone at the park and responds by baring their teeth or growling, it’s a warning sign. Dogs are fiercely protective and can sense when someone is not trustworthy. If your dog feels threatened, toss a stick and both of you should move away quickly.

A courteous sniff of the crotch is a strong sign of approval from your dog. However, a crotch bite is a double rejection for your partner. Although it might feel awkward for the person being sniffed, it’s a clear indication that your dog is comfortable with their presence.

If your dog is licking your potential partner by the third date, consider it a positive sign. If that lick happens on the very first date, you might want to take them to a jeweler right away.

There’s a lot to learn by watching how a stick, your dog, and your date interact. If your date throws the stick, that’s a great indication—they’re showing interest in your dog. However, this doesn’t necessarily reveal how your dog feels about them.

Does your dog retrieve the stick? If yes, it means your dog is okay with temporarily leaving your side. Next, observe who your dog brings the stick back to. If it’s your partner, you’ve found a keeper. If it’s you, the verdict is still out—try throwing the stick again.

If your dog fetches as usual, there’s enough trust for your new partner to be alone with your dog briefly. But if your dog stays put and your partner retrieves the stick, you’re likely dealing with a poor match.

6. They choose a particular side of the car

When your date picks you up and invites you and your dog for ice cream, pay attention to which side of the backseat your dog chooses. If your dog sits on your partner’s side, it means they feel comfortable being close to them. You can rest easy knowing that comfort level is mutual.

Of course, it might just be that the airflow is better on that side when your dog sticks their head out the window. But if your dog stays on your side of the car, proceed with caution.

What is your dog’s overall reaction when your partner arrives at your door? Is your dog excited and eager, or do they curl up in a corner?

Your dog should be eager to jump all over your partner if that person is as wonderful as you believe.

You may have already checked many things, but here comes the ultimate test: your partner’s solo challenge with your furry best friend. Send them out together, hand your partner a poop bag, and observe through the window.

If they are truly “the one,” they will get along well. If your dog leads the way, it shows your dog doesn’t respect your partner. But if your dog behaves calmly and walks closely, your partner shows strength and confidence. If your dog relieves themselves in front of your partner, it means your dog feels very comfortable, and you’ve found a winner worth keeping.