Have you ever watched two unfamiliar dogs meet for the first time? It’s a mix of curiosity, excitement, and hesitation.
For dog owners, it’s helpful to know the obvious signs that show two fellow dogs are hitting it off and getting along well.
By understanding these signs, we can ensure that our furry pals form healthy relationships with their fellow dogs and enjoy their time together!
Have you ever watched your furry friends and wondered if they actually like each other? Maybe you’ve caught them snuggling together or following each other around the house. As a dog parent myself I’ve always been fascinated by the special connections our canine companions form with each other.
Dogs aren’t just companions to us humans – they build meaningful relationships with other dogs too! In this article, I’ll share 15 clear signs that your dogs have formed a special bond with each other, plus answers to common questions about doggy relationships.
What Does It Actually Mean When Dogs Are Bonded?
Before diving into the signs, let’s clarify what we mean by “bonded dogs.”
Bonded dogs have a relationship that goes far beyond just tolerating each other They provide each other with comfort, security, and happiness Think of it as a deep friendship where each dog genuinely enjoys and depends on the other’s company.
Many shelters use the term “bonded pairs” to describe dogs that have such a close connection that they should be adopted together. These pairs often become depressed or anxious when separated, which is why responsible rescues try to keep them together.
15 Clear Signs Your Dogs Are Bonded To Each Other
1. They’re Practically Glued At The Hip
The most obvious sign of bonded dogs is that they always want to be together. They’ll follow each other from room to room and choose to hang out together even when they have the option to be alone. If your dogs are constantly in each other’s company by choice (not because they’re confined to the same space), that’s a strong indicator of bonding.
2. They’ve Lived Together For Many Years
Dogs who have shared a home for a long time often develop deep bonds. According to the Denver Dumb Friends League, dogs who are over 5 years old and have lived together for many years typically form these special connections. The very definition of a bond implies a connection made through shared experiences and even love.
3. They Get Stressed When Separated
One of the most telling signs of bonded dogs is how they react when apart. Even short periods of separation can cause visible signs of stress, including:
- Hiding
- Pacing
- Excessive licking
- Barking or whining
- Shaking
- Drooling
- Yawning
- Diarrhea
- Excessive shedding
- Dilated pupils
- Pinned-back ears
- Low body posture
If your dogs show these behaviors when separated, they’re likely strongly bonded.
4. They Become Depressed Without Each Other
Beyond just stress, truly bonded dogs can become depressed if separated for longer periods. I’ve heard heartbreaking stories of dogs who stopped eating, playing, or even leaving the house after their bonded partner passed away.
Depression in dogs can manifest as:
- Lethargy
- Withdrawal
- Loss of appetite
- Inability to settle
- Significant behavior changes
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a vet to rule out physical illness, then possibly work with a behaviorist to help your dog cope.
5. They Help Each Other Relax In Stressful Situations
Bonded dogs have an amazing ability to comfort each other during stressful times. This is particularly evident in shelter environments, where newly surrendered dogs often experience high anxiety. Bonded pairs tend to settle down more quickly because they provide reassurance to each other.
6. They Keep Each Other Happy And Entertained
When you have bonded dogs, they entertain each other even when you’re not around. This can prevent boredom and the destructive behaviors that sometimes result from a lonely dog left alone at home.
7. They Groom Each Other
Mutual grooming is a strong indicator of bonding. If your dogs lick each other’s faces, ears, or other body parts, they’re demonstrating care and respect. This behavior stems from puppyhood, when mother dogs groom their puppies to clean and comfort them.
8. They Always Play Together
Bonded dogs love to play together! They’ll chase each other around the yard, engage in play-fighting, or enjoy a good game of tug-of-war. What’s important is that the play is balanced with both dogs taking turns and respecting each other’s boundaries.
When observing your dogs’ play, watch for:
- Turn-taking during games
- Both dogs seeming equally engaged
- Play that doesn’t become too rough
- Either dog being able to end the play when tired
9. They Eat Together Without Issues
Food is a high-value resource for dogs, and many canines get possessive around mealtime. However, bonded dogs often feel comfortable eating near each other. Some may even share from the same bowl, though this isn’t recommended even for bonded pairs.
10. They Share Treats And Toys
Similarly, bonded dogs are often willing to share their precious treats and toys. This is particularly significant because treats are high-value items for dogs. Research has shown that dogs are more likely to share food with familiar dogs than with strangers, demonstrating the importance of their bond.
11. They Sleep Together
When dogs choose to sleep together, especially with physical contact, it shows a deep level of trust. Sleep is a vulnerable state for any animal, so dogs who cuddle up together for naps are displaying their comfort and security with each other.
This cuddling behavior also releases oxytocin – the “bonding hormone” – which further strengthens their connection. Touch, gazing, and positive interactions all contribute to increasing oxytocin levels and reinforcing their bond.
12. They Look For Each Other When Separated
If one dog is missing, a bonded partner will actively search for them. You might notice your dog checking their friend’s favorite spots or waiting by the door when their companion is away. This searching behavior can persist for months if a bonded dog passes away.
13. They Rarely Fight With Each Other
Bonded dogs typically have well-established relationships with clear communication. They understand each other’s boundaries and preferences, which means serious fights are rare. While occasional disagreements might happen, they’re usually resolved quickly without escalation.
14. They Comfort Each Other
When one dog is stressed or unwell, their bonded partner will often try to comfort them. This might look like lying close to them, gentle licking, or staying protectively nearby. This empathetic behavior demonstrates their emotional connection.
15. They Protect Each Other
Bonded dogs often look out for each other in potentially threatening situations. One fascinating behavior is called “splitting,” where one dog will physically place themselves between their friend and a perceived threat to diffuse tension.
How Long Does It Take For Dogs To Bond With Each Other?
Forming a true bond takes time – often much longer than people expect. While puppies and older dogs may start playing together within 4-5 weeks, deep bonding typically takes months or even years.
As a general guideline:
- Initial adjustment period: About 3 months
- Beginning of bonding: 6 months to 1 year
- Deep bonding: 3-5 years of living together
Remember that bonding isn’t guaranteed. Some dogs may live together for years without forming a close bond, while others connect almost immediately.
What Happens When You Separate Bonded Dogs?
Separating bonded dogs can cause significant distress for both animals. They may exhibit:
- Anxiety behaviors like pacing and whining
- Depression symptoms
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Escape attempts
- Excessive vocalization
This is why animal shelters and rescues work hard to keep bonded pairs together during adoption. The emotional toll of separation can be severe and long-lasting.
Tips For Helping Dogs Bond
If you’re hoping to encourage bonding between your dogs, here are some helpful approaches:
- Give them time – Don’t rush the process; bonding happens gradually
- Provide separate resources – Each dog should have their own bed, toys, and food bowls
- Monitor play sessions – Ensure play remains balanced and positive
- Create positive associations – Reward them for calm behavior around each other
- Respect their space – Allow them to have alone time when needed
- Feed separately – Prevent resource guarding by feeding in different areas
- Train together – Shared positive experiences can strengthen their bond
- Practice short separations – Help them learn that brief time apart is okay
Final Thoughts
The bond between dogs is truly special to witness. From sleeping together to protecting each other, these behaviors showcase the depth of canine relationships. If your dogs display many of the signs we’ve discussed, congratulations – you’ve got a bonded pair on your hands!
Remember that every dog relationship is unique, and not all bonded dogs will show every sign mentioned here. The most important thing is that your dogs are happy, healthy, and comfortable in their home environment.
Do your dogs show signs of being bonded? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!
How Long Until My Dogs Will Get Along?
Adding a new dog to a home with an existing pup resembles adding a splash of color to a painting—hoping for a masterpiece, yet unsure about the outcome.
The time it takes for two dogs to get along well varies. Like humans, dogs have their own personalities, likes, and dislikes.
In some cases, dogs hit it off from the first sniff. They play and share toys—like they’ve known one another for ages!
Sometimes, it’s a more cautious dance. Your dogs will circle around each other, sizing up the new company and taking their sweet time to become best buds.
Watch for positive signs, such as playing together without continuous growling, to know if your dogs are turning into lifelong pals. On the flip side, constant barking or baring teeth means they need time and help to bond.
Every canine duo has its own rhythm, and with a sprinkle of patience and understanding, you will help them find their groove together.
11 Signs Your Dogs Enjoy a Strong Bond
If you’ve ever watched dogs greet one another, you’ll notice they do a lot of sniffing, especially around each other’s faces and tails. They learn aplenty about each other through a good sniff. It’s like reading a story about the other dog’s day.
When dogs sniff each other in a relaxed manner, it means they’re curious about one another and they’re trying to gather information. If they continue to play or hang out together after the initial sniff, it’s an encouraging indication that they’re about to become great pals.
However, just because two dogs sniff each other doesn’t mean they are bonded for life.
Sniffing is just the first step. But if, over time, your dogs play together, have positive body language around one another, and maybe even snuggle up for a nap, those are fantastic signs that the dogs are bonded!
Signs Your Dogs Are Bonded To Each Other
FAQ
How do you know when you have successfully bonded with your dog?
There are many ways that you can tell when you have successfully bonded with your dog. These include your dog wanting to sleep in your bed (which is the ultimate display of trust from your dog, as they’re at their most vulnerable while dozing), and showing reluctance to leave your side.
How do you know if a bonded dog is stressed?
When you separate a bonded pair of dogs, they exhibit signs of stress. They can even display anxiety-related behaviors. Stressed and anxious dogs often have the same signs such as: Pacing. Licking. Whining. Diarrhea. Escape behaviors.
What does a bonded dog look like?
In stressful situations, bonded dogs seek comfort from one another. This might look like one dog snuggling up to the other, nuzzling or licking each other, or hiding behind one another when feeling anxious or scared. Bonded dog pairs usually spend time playing and grooming each other.
What does it mean if a dog is bonded?
When dogs are described as “bonded,” it means they share a deep, emotional connection. This bond can be as strong as the one between close family members. Bonded dogs frequently rely on each other for comfort, security, and companionship. This connection is not just about being together — it’s about the emotional support they provide one another.
How do you know if a dog is in a relationship?
Another sign of a solid relationship is synchronized movements, where dogs mirror each other’s actions, indicating they are in tune with one another. Additionally, if one dog yawns and the other follows suit, it signals a strong connection, showcasing comfort and shared emotional states.
How do you know if a dog likes you?
“This behavior shows that your dog feels comfortable and secure in your presence and prefers your company over being alone,” Horniman said. Another sign put forward by Mika’s owner is when the dog rests with its belly up next to you. “Sleeping belly-up means they trust you completely,” the poster said.
What happens when you separate a bonded pair of dogs?
If they are truly a bonded pair, you will do significant psychological damage by separating them. This can also lead to a variety of additional behavioral problems. It is very unwise to break up a bonded pair.
How can I tell if my dog is bonded to me?
Signs your dog is attached to you include following you around, enthusiastic greetings when you return, leaning on you for comfort and security, and making direct eye contact. Other indicators are snuggling your belongings, bringing you toys, being relaxed and calm in your presence, and seeking physical affection like licking.
What is the 3-3-3 rule with dogs?
The “3-3-3 Rule” for dogs is a general guideline for the adoption and adjustment period of a new rescue dog, suggesting it takes 3 days for a dog to decompress and feel somewhat safe, 3 weeks to learn and settle into the new routine, and 3 months to fully feel comfortable, bonded, and at home. This framework helps set realistic expectations for new owners, emphasizing patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to help the dog build trust and confidence in its new environment.
How to tell if dogs are in love with another dog?
Dogs that like each other will show relaxed body language, initiate playful interactions like play bows, share resources like toys and food, and engage in mutual affection such as grooming and snuggling. Look for comfortable body postures, soft gazes, and a willingness to be in close physical contact.