If your dog races into the kitchen the moment you mention dinner, you might be wondering if they actually understand what you’re saying. The answer is yes, at least to a point. “Dogs don’t necessarily know what words mean in the same abstract way humans do,” says veterinarian Dr. Sarah Wooten. “However, what they do understand very well is association.” Because of that, there are certain things you say that make them feel all warm and cozy inside. To find out what those are, we rounded up 7 phrases that dogs connect with love and affection, according to vets.

Over time, these kinds of words become tied to experience. Your dog learns that certain sounds, tones, and routines reliably lead to comfort, attention, meals, play, or simply time with you—their favorite person.

So, what are they? Below are seven phrases vets say make your pup feel extra cared for and adored whenever you use them. So, while they may seem simple or like nothing special to you, they are met with unmistakable tail-wagging enthusiasm by your furry companion and make them feel super connected to you. The good news is, you're probably already saying a bunch of them without knowing it.

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7 Phrases That Dogs Connect With Love and Affection

Even though dogs communicate differently than people do, there are several words and phrases that make them happy to hear. However, most dog moms and dads have no idea what they are.

“Good Dog”

When it comes to words dogs love, “good dog” is one of the most meaningful sentences you can use when you talk to your devoted pup. In fact, dogs love hearing these words because they're almost always paired with something positive.

Whether it’s accompanied by a belly rub, favorite treat, boundless praise or a happy voice, this sweet phrase tells your dog they’ve done something right.

“Over time, dogs learn those words mean they’ve done something right or their person is pleased with them,” Wooten says. “The phrase becomes emotionally meaningful because it’s repeatedly connected with positive attention and social approval.”

“I Love You”

Your dog probably doesn’t know the dictionary definition of “I love you,” but that doesn’t mean the phrase is meaningless. You should always say this to your dog.

“It’s not the words themselves that matter,” explains Dr. Miranda Fleming, veterinarian with TelaVets.com. “It’s the tone. Most people naturally soften their voice, smile and make eye contact when they say it.”

Dogs are incredibly good at picking up on cues connected to human emotions. They pay attention to facial expressions, body language and vocal inflection, all of which help them understand when you’re being warm and affectionate.

“Do You Want a Treat?”

Another classic phrase that makes your dog feel loved is when you ask your pup if they want a treat.

“Even dogs that seem to ignore everything else somehow know exactly what that means,” Fleming shares. “They’ve learned through repetition that those words are usually followed by food, and that’s powerful motivation.”

In other words, treats aren’t just snacks. They’re opportunities to strengthen your bond with your dog. “It may not mean love in a human sense, but food-giving is one of the ways people build positive associations, trust and cooperation with their dogs," Wooten says.

“Let’s Go”

How can you tell your dog you love them in a way they'll understand? For many dogs, “let’s go” signals adventure, which makes them feel happy because they know you want to do something together.

“Dogs are social animals, and many love being part of their person’s movement and routine,” Wooten notes. “When this phrase consistently predicts a walk, car ride, outdoor time or shared activity, it can become a cue for togetherness.”

Fleming says many dogs become excited before their owners even reach for the leash because they’ve learned exactly what comes next.

“Want to Play?”

Want to strengthen your bond with your dog? For active pups, this phrase can be just as exciting as hearing the treat bag open! After all, playing is about much more than burning energy. It’s one of the key ways dogs connect with humans and other dogs.

“If the phrase is followed by tug, fetch, chase, training games or silly interaction, the dog learns that it predicts fun attention from their favorite person,” Wooten says. “Play-based phrases can be especially powerful for energetic or toy-motivated dogs.”

Regular play sessions also help build trust and reinforce the positive relationship your dog has with you. It's no wonder these words are associated wth love by your dog.

“Breakfast” or “Dinner”

Dogs thrive on routine, so meal-related words often become emotionally loaded because they predict something dogs value highly. That means, when you say these terms, your dog knows you care for them.

“A dog who hears ‘dinner’ every day before being fed will quickly learn that the word means food is coming,” Wooten says. “While this is basic conditioning, feeding routines can also create feelings of safety and predictability, which are important parts of the human-animal bond.”

Predictable routines also help dogs feel secure, which is why these simple phrases are especially meaningful.

Their Name, Said Warmly

Perhaps no word carries more emotional weight than your dog’s own name. “When a dog’s name predicts attention, affection, play, food or guidance, it becomes a powerful connection cue,” Wooten says. “This is also why it’s helpful not to use a dog’s name only when scolding them.”

Instead, experts recommend saying your dog’s name in positive situations throughout the day. “When it’s used kindly and consistently, hearing their name becomes reassuring all on its own,” Fleming adds.

Ultimately, it’s not the specific words that matter most. It’s the experiences attached to them. “Any phrase can become a ‘love word’ if it’s consistently paired with safety, kindness, affection and positive interaction,” Wooten says.

What's the Best Way to Communicate with Dogs?

From a dog’s point of view, experts say it’s not the literal meaning of words that matters most, but the way they’re said. A cheerful tone, relaxed body language, and soft eyes all help your dog pick up on the emotion behind your voice—and they respond warmly to that energy.

Sources:

Dr. Sarah Wooten, veterinarian

Dr. Miranda Fleming, veterinarian with TelaVets.com