New Research From Rover Reveals That Brits Tell Their Dogs They Love Them More Than They Tell Their Partners

London, 5 February 2024: Although the concept of love languages has always typically applied to humans, Rover.com, has today revealed that 81% of British dog owners believe it definitely applies to their four-legged friends too. Out of the five ways to show affection, nearly half (44%) say their pooch’s love language is ‘physical touch’.  

Whether it’s giving their dogs belly rubs (79%) or simply cuddling them (75%), pet parents have little qualms over getting up close and personal to show their pups some love. In fact, 13% have confessed to spooning their dog in bed, and even kissing them on the lips (11%). 

30% of pet parents believe their dog’s love language is ‘quality time’, followed by ‘words of affirmation’ (15%). In fact, over three quarters (76%) claim their pooch loves receiving praise and being spoken to in cooing baby voices (27%), while 1 in 5 (20%) are adamant that their dogs love being called unusual, quirky nicknames. Some popular examples amongst Brits include “Sausage”, “Boo” and “Doodlebug”. Tell-tail signs of their emotional contentment includes wagging their tails (86%), rolling on their backs (52%) and evening smiling at their owners (32%).  

​​​And when it comes to the most affectionate breeds, it was pugs that came out on top (75%), while breeds including poodles (46%) and border Collies (46%) preferred quality time with their owners. 

The top ten most affectionate dog breeds 

2.       Pug (75%) 

3.       Boxer (64%) 

4.       Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (62%) 

5.       Shi Tzu (60%) 

6.       Husky (60%) 

7.       Dachshund (57%) 

8.       French Bulldog (50%) 

9.       Beagle (50%) 

10.   Golden Retriever (48%) 

11.   Chihuahua (47%) 

Love languages according to dog breeds 

1.       Physical touch (44%) such as cuddling, kissing, and spooning in the bed – Top dog for this was Pugs (75%) 

2.       Quality time (30%) such as one-on-one time to play together or gazing into each other’s eyes – Top dog for this was Poodles (46%) 

3.       Words of affirmation (15%) such as receiving praise, being spoken to in baby voices and being called unusual nicknames – Top dog for this was Corgis (38%) 

4.       Receiving gifts such as receiving treats and toys (8%) – Top dog for this wasBorder Terriers (25%) 

5.       Acts of service (3%) such as home cooked food, a pampering session – Top dog for this was Whippets (13%) 

It seems we’re a nation of dog whisperers, as an astounding 89% believe they’re fluent in their furry-friend’s love language. And while a whopping 93% wholeheartedly believe their dog knows they’re loved – the same can’t be said for their partners – as 40% confess they tell their dog they love them more than their significant other.  

Delving further into the language of love, almost a quarter (23%) claimed they rarely buy gifts for their partners besides special occasions; however, Brits are happy to spend up to £266 when it comes to purchasing a gift for their pup – regardless of whether it’s an occasion or not.  

Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist comments: “In order to become fluent in our dog’s love language, it’s important to pay attention to their body language. While a lot of dogs’ love affection from their owners, this isn’t the case for all, and some may feel uneasy or get overwhelmed with physical contact. However, this isn’t to say they don’t love you, they may just feel more comfortable when you express your love for them in other ways, such as spending one on one quality time together.  

“Pay close attention to their reactions when you’re with them, for example if you’re trying to cuddle your dog and they consistently walk off, this is an obvious sign they do not want this kind of affection. However, if they seem to perk up when you play with them or take them on a long walk, then lean into this and ensure you dedicate quality time for you and your pooch. If their love language is words of affirmation, then remember to keep your tone consistent and positive when addressing your pup – nicknames are a great example when kept in the same context, as dogs quickly learn to associate this term of endearment with something positive.  

“Just like in our human relationships, taking the time to understand our dog’s love language is vital to building a healthy, positive relationship – ensuring we’re meeting the emotional needs of our pooch, and strengthen the bond between us.” 

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