How to Tell If Your Dog Likes Another Dog

Is my dog being polite, or have they truly found their "best friend"? While we see friendship through shared conversation, dogs demonstrate affinity through body synchronization and trust-based behaviors.

The Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): You can tell your dog likes another dog if they engage in mirroring (copying the other dog's actions), play solicitation (repeatedly inviting them to play), and vulnerability (exposing their belly or throat without fear). If two dogs consistently "shake off" together or try to stay in close physical proximity during downtime, they have formed a genuine social bond.

1. The Power of Mirroring (Synchronized Behavior)

One of the strongest signs of affinity is when two dogs mirror each other’s movements.

• The Shared Sniff: Both dogs stop to sniff the same patch of grass at the same time.
• The Water Bowl Dash: When one dog goes to drink, the other follows, even if they aren't particularly thirsty.
• The "Nap Mirror": Both dogs lie down in the same position (e.g., both on their backs or both curled up) a few feet apart.

This behavior shows that the dogs are in "sync" and feel comfortable enough to relax their vigilance around each other.

2. Signs of Deep Social Trust

Friendship in the dog world is built on vulnerability.

A. Exposing the Belly (Passive Submission)

When a dog rolls over in front of another dog during play, it’s a massive sign of trust. It means, "I know you won't hurt me, even when I'm defenseless." If this is reciprocal (they take turns being on the bottom), it’s a healthy, high-affinity friendship.

B. Mutual Grooming (Allogrooming)

While more common in cats, dogs will often lick the ears, eyes, or muzzle of a dog they truly like. This releases oxytocin in both animals and reinforces the social bond.

C. The "Resting Head"

If your dog places their head on the other dog’s shoulder or back during a break in play, they are seeking physical contact and comfort. This is a clear indicator that they view the other dog as part of their "inner circle."

3. Play Solicitation: The "Don't Go" Signal

Does your dog keep going back for more?

• The Play Bow: A classic invitation. If your dog does this repeatedly even after the other dog takes a break, they are highly motivated to interact with that specific individual.
• The "Paw Tap": Gently batting at the other dog with a front paw to get their attention.
• Persistent Engagement: When it’s time to leave, if your dog keeps looking back or tries to "nudge" the other dog into one last chase, they’ve clearly made a friend.

4. Friendship vs. Polite Tolerance

It’s important to distinguish between a dog who likes another dog and one who is just well-behaved.

5. What Should You Do?

If you realize your dog has a "special someone," nurture that relationship.

• Regular Playdates: Consistency is key to maintaining canine social bonds.
• Off-Leash Time: Allow them to interact in a safe, fenced area where they can use their full range of body language without leash tension.
• Balanced Social Life: Even if they have a best friend, continue to expose them to new dogs occasionally to keep their social skills sharp.

Conclusion: Honoring Their Choices

Just like humans, dogs have "types." They might get along with everyone but only truly love a select few. By recognizing these signs, you can help your dog spend more time with the companions who make them the happiest.

Has your dog found their "bestie" on Pawgloo? Use our app to schedule regular meetups, share photos of their playdates, and even find dog-friendly cafes where they can hang out together.

Join Pawgloo today and help your dog find their soulmate!

References

• The Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Social Preferences and Companion Preference in Dogs.
• Dr. Stanley Coren: "How to Tell if Two Dogs are Friends."
• Whole Dog Journal: Canine Social Dynamics.