Do Dogs Have a Favorite Person?
Intrigued, we took our discussion to the experts, and the answer they came back with was unsurprising: Dogs do have a favorite person, and that person is Chrissy Teigen.
Here are the facts. Chrissy is goofy, loves to snuggle, talks to her dogs in ridiculous voices, makes up even more ridiculous voices for her dogs, sings them songs, and gives them treats when John’s not looking. It’s a classic case of fun-loving pet parent versus responsibility-loving pet parent. Someone has to scoop the poop (that would be John) and someone has to bestow kisses while praising the pup for being such a good little stinky butt.
This all tracks, but because the experts we turned to in this case were Chrissy and John themselves, we decided to broaden our network and hear from a few other professional dog people. Read on to learn what we found out.
The Science Behind Dog-Human Bonds: Oxytocin and Socialization
As we learned from our in-depth interview with Stanford neuroscientist Ben Rein, humans and dogs bond with each other in the same way that humans and their babies bond with each other. When dogs and their pet parents stare into each other's eyes, they both show increased levels of oxytocin – a powerful molecule for social bonding. Dr. Rein explains that the bonding between pets and their people is “akin to the deep, evolutionary mechanism at play when a mother holds their baby for the first time....At some point in their evolution, dogs developed this magnificent ability to connect with us in a very special and unique way.”
“The people who spend the most time with puppies often become the most significant figures in their lives.”
Much like babies and their caregivers, these bonds between dogs and humans start early. According to Dr. Mary Burch, a certified applied animal behaviorist with the American Kennel Club (AKC), puppies go through a critical socialization period between three and fourteen weeks old. “During this time, they are highly impressionable. The people who spend the most time with them, providing positive experiences, often become the most significant figures in their lives,” Dr. Burch explains.
The takeaway: Early interactions can leave a lasting impression on dogs. If a person is consistently present and engaged with a puppy during their first formative months, the puppy is likely to form a strong attachment to them, setting the stage for that person to become the dog’s favorite.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement
We didn’t need an expert to tell us that dogs respond well to treats, head scritches, and belly rubs. Positive reinforcement and playtime are the way to a dog’s heart.
But Dr. Brian Hare, a professor of evolutionary anthropology at Duke University and founder of the Duke Canine Cognition Center, points out that if a particular person is the primary feeder, trainer, and belly rubber, the dog is likely to develop a preference for that person. “Dogs are very much driven by their environment and the associations they make,” he says. “If a person is associated with good things, like food and fun, the dog will naturally gravitate towards them.”
The takeaway: Cuddle often and early!
“If a person is associated with good things, like food and fun, the dog will naturally gravitate towards them.”
Personalities Matter
“Dogs have their own unique personalities and energy levels, and they often choose people whose personalities complement their own.”
Everyone knows no two dogs are alike – just like humans, they have distinct tastes, energy levels, likes, and character traits. Where one dog might vibe with a calm, quiet person who bestows gentle pets and cuddles, another might favor someone spunkier who engages in active play and takes them on outdoor adventures. Dr. Karen Becker, a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian, breaks it down: “Dogs have their own unique personalities and energy levels, and they often choose people whose personalities complement their own.”
The takeaway: Ask your pooch to take a Myers–Briggs personality or Enneagram test – and do the same yourself. Are they an outgoing ENFP or a conflict-avoidant, peace-loving Nine? Are you logical and reserved (INTP) or spontaneous and enthusiastic (Enneagram Seven)? The results will help you better understand where you and your pup’s personalities overlap, and where you can lean in or pull back to strengthen your bond.
It’s a Breed Thing
Genetics also play a role in dog-human bonding. Certain dog breeds are known to bond more closely with a single person; for example, Border Collies and Australian Shepherds are often very loyal and may choose one person to follow around more closely than others. This is common in herding breeds, while more sociable breeds – your Golden Retrievers and Labradors – are equal opportunity lovers; they’re known for spreading their affection more evenly among their friends, fans, and fam.
The takeaway: Your dog’s bonding style is part of their DNA.
5 Signs Your Dog Has a Favorite Person
Did you skip straight to this section? No shame. To determine categorically, once and for all, if you are your dog’s favorite person, here are a few signs to look out for:
1. Follows You Everywhere
If your dog is constantly by your side, even following you from room to room, it’s a good indication that you’re their favorite. This behavior, often called “velcro dog” syndrome, shows that they feel safest and happiest when they’re as close to you as possible. Even when you’re peeing. Awwww.
2. Excited Greetings
Pay attention to how your dog greets different people. If your pooch gets particularly excited when you come home – jumping, wagging their tail, and maybe even serenading you with a bark or a soulful howl – it’s a sign that you’re their number one.
3. Prefers Your Company
According to Dr. Stanley Coren, a renowned expert on dog behavior and author of several books on the subject, including “How Dogs Think: Understanding the Canine Mind,” dogs are inclined to have a fave: “Dogs are pack animals and they naturally form close bonds with those who provide them with security and resources. This often means the person who feeds them, plays with them, and spends the most time with them.”
Dogs who have a favorite person will often choose to spend time with them over others. They may lie at your feet, lean against you, or follow you around the house, showing that they enjoy your company the most.
4. Seeks Comfort From You
In times of stress or fear, dogs will often seek out their favorite person for comfort. If your dog comes to you during thunderstorms, fireworks, or other stressful situations, it’s a strong sign that they trust and rely on you the most.
5. Responds to Your Commands
A dog that sees you as their favorite person is likely to be more responsive to your commands and more eager to please you. They may learn new tricks more quickly and follow your instructions more readily than those of others.
Strengthening Your Bond With Your Dog
If you’re hoping to become your dog’s favorite person, or strengthen the bond you already have, there are several things you can do:
- Spend quality time together.
- Engage in positive reinforcement training.
- Provide consistent care.
- Be attentive to their needs.
- Respect their individuality.
Whether you’re already your dog’s favorite person or working towards building that special bond, the love and affection of a dog is one of life’s greatest joys. As the AKC’s Dr. Burch puts it, “The bond between a dog and their favorite person is one of the most beautiful aspects of the human-animal relationship. It’s a testament to the love, trust, and companionship that dogs bring into our lives.” So, cherish those moments, nurture your relationship, and enjoy the unconditional love of your fluff face.
Where my dogs at?
