But how do you make sure your pup or kitten know that they’re just as loved and cared for?
With two-thirds of Britons convinced that their furry-tailed friends have their own love language - according to research from ManyPets - the answer may depend on your beloved’s habits and behaviours.
The concept of love languages was first devised by US-based Dr Gary Chapman in his 1992 book, The Five Love Languages, which posited that humans have distinct ways in which they prefer to give and receive love and affection.
Now Dr Kirsten Ronngren, the pet insurance provider’s vet expert, has revealed that your pet also has a love language of their own.
She explains how you can help your animals feel appreciated - even when you’re not with them - by learning how they like to receive affection.
WORDS OF AFFIRMATION
Dr Ronngren says that pets with this language will most likely ‘serenade you by friendly barks when you step in the door’ or ‘treat you to a chorus of meows while you’re filling up the food bowl’.
‘These guys are very vocal in their appreciation of you – and always love hearing your voice back in return,’ she said.
 The vet eplained that it’s important to offer your pet physical and verbal signs of affection to let them know they’re appreciated. |
‘At times deafening (but always adorable), these pets respond really well to training and praise, so make sure to always offer them verbal, positive reinforcement.’
The vet says that this also mean they will recognise when your voice changes - so it’s important to be concise if you want your pet to understand what you’re trying to communicate.
‘Pets who are soothed by your voice could also benefit from background noise such as the radio when alone in the house to keep them calm ahead of your return home,’ she added.
QUALITY TIME
These pets don’t mind what it is they’re doing - be it a round of fetch, a long walk or a rousing game of ‘mouse-on-a-string’ - as long as they can receive your undivided attention.
They will demand it by bringing your toys, wagging their tail and shooting you yearning stares.
‘Pets who communicate through this love language will want to be in close proximity to you and may struggle when left alone for too long,’ Dr. Ronngren said.
‘If this is your pet’s love language, making time to play with your pet is a must - they love human company and might wake you up extra early to show you their affection if they don’t get enough one on one time.
‘Making sure they’ve had enough exercise and mental stimulation before you leave the house is essential.’
PHYSICAL TOUCH
Animals with this love language will be particularly fond of licking your face, climbing on your lap, or jumping up to get their paws on you - ‘even when they know they’re not supposed to’.
‘These pets want one thing more than anything else,’ the vet said. ‘And that’s lot’s physical fuss.’
She said: ‘To show your pet you care, provide lots of cuddles, belly rubs and fur strokes and they will be your best friend - this can be a way to soothe them during stressful moments.
‘Making sure to give your pet physical reassurance and affection is important, particularly when in unfamiliar territory.’
Dr Ronngren warned it’s also important to know when your pet’s love language isn’t physical touch, as too much of it may unsettle independent animals.
ACTS OF SERVICE
‘Pets with this love language just want to find ways to show they are there for you,’ the expert said.
‘Whether that’s a cuddle after a long day, or giving you kisses when you might be upset.
‘They’re incredibly intuitive, and always know when you’ve had a bad day, so you can count on them to be your furry comfort blanket when you’re feeling down.’
She said that it’s important to offer your pet physical and verbal signs of affection to let them know they’re appreciated.
‘Demonstrating appreciation through your own acts of service, from a long walk outdoors to giving physical comfort in stressful situations, is a great way to show you’re there, and you care,’ the vet added.
RECEIVING GIFTS
Pets with this love language will insist on bringing you small tokens of love - whether you want them or not.
‘From bringing home a muddy stick, to surprising you with a mouse from the garden, you might think these “gifts” aren’t exactly the most loving thing your pet could do,’ Dr Ronngren said.
‘On the contrary, it may be how they get your attention.
‘Gifts from the garden (no matter how muddy) are a gesture of their love – and they also love receiving gifts from you in return.’
This could range from you making them a simple homemade treat or playing a game using their favourite toy. She added: ‘Dogs with this love language will also respond well to treats during training, so make sure to pack them before puppy training!’ -Daily Mail.uk