Do Dogs Think Things Are Cute?
This one knows she’s absolutely adorable.
After my brother's dog has been to the groomer, he prances around like a fashion model. He clearly knows he’s hot! I have two cats who know how to ask for affection. Both love to lie on my lap when I read. When I come into a room where either one is relaxing, he or she will roll over for petting. They are both enthusiastic bunters too and “groom” me as I pet them anywhere close to their mouths.
Dogs Think Things Are CUTE (Or at Least Interesting!)
Dogs think things smell good, dogs think things are interesting, dogs think things make them feel safe. Cute? I don’t know. You’ll have to make up an answer you like and go with it!
Is My Dog Thinking “I Look Cute Too”?
Accidentally, perhaps! Here’s my dog... I am biased, of course, yet I would say he looks and acts cute!
I would also say that friends who know him think he is cute in these ways too. However, does he think he's cute? I doubt it. From my limited understanding, such reasoning is very complex, and in order for a dog to understand that, it would need to either look in the mirror to see the physical aspect or develop a level of empathy from observing people interact with him versus how they interact with other dogs.
That being said, he is smart. And thus my reason for the “perhaps accidentally” answer. You see, my dog acts differently around different people. He understands that different people react and expect him to behave in a certain manner. For example, if a strong male friend comes over who doesn’t really care for dogs, Tucker will show some mild affection yet quickly return to normality. However, if a certain friend comes over, he’ll immediately start performing tricks to impress her.
I wouldn’t say he knows he is cute, yet I would say that he understands the nuance of acting in a certain way to elicit a favorable behavior. Dogs are amazing!
How Your Dog Understands Your Love for Them
Yes, your dog knows how much you love him! Dogs and humans have a very special relationship where dogs have actually hijacked the human oxytocin bonding pathway that is normally reserved for our babies. When you stare at your dog, both your oxytocin levels go up just as they do when you pet them and play with them. It makes you both feel good and reinforces your bonding. Does your dog ever stare at you for no reason? They are just “hugging you” with their eyes.
If you're interested in learning more about dog cognition and behavior, consider checking out resources like the Psychology Today blog or the ASPCA for more insights and articles.