Did you know…

Dogs wag slightly more to the ______ side when they’re feeling positive.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

You walk through the door, and suddenly it’s chaos. Tail spinning like a propeller. Full-body wiggles. Maybe even a few zoomies around the couch. It feels dramatic, but there’s real science behind that over-the-top welcome.

Dogs form attachment bonds with their caregivers that closely resemble the bonds human infants form with parents. Research studies found that dogs behave differently with their person than with strangers, showing more affiliative behaviors like nudging, nuzzling, and staying close. In short, you’re not just “someone who feeds them.” You’re their safe place.

Memory plays a big role, too. Dogs rely heavily on associative memory, linking your scent, voice, and routines to comfort and reward. Brain imaging studies have shown that a dog’s caudate nucleus (the area tied to positive expectations) lights up most when they smell their caregiver. Add in familiar words, your voice, and past reinforcement (“Good boy!”), and the excitement snowballs.

Then there’s oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.” Eye contact between dogs and their humans boosts oxytocin levels in both species, creating a feedback loop of feel-good bonding.

The result? Attachment, memory, and scent recognition all working together to spark those full-blown, joy-fueled zoomies.

Leaving your dog home alone can tug at the heart a little. Most pups do just fine, but trouble usually starts with easy temptations, like an overflowing trash can, food left on the counter, or an exposed cord that suddenly looks chewable. A quick sweep of the house, secured cabinets, and tucked-away hazards can prevent the most common emergencies.

For dogs prone to chewing or destructive behavior, a crate can actually feel like a safe retreat when introduced the right way. And if you’re gone for long stretches, a midday dog walker helps keep their routine steady. Vets often emphasize that consistency matters more than we think.

Entertainment helps, too. Durable chew toys, treat puzzles, or even a little background noise can keep boredom from turning into mischief. Pet cameras and GPS collars offer extra reassurance if you’re the type who checks in during lunch.

Before heading out, double-check windows and avoid leaving your dog outside unattended. A little planning lets you focus on your day, knowing your dog is safe at home.

Some dogs just get into anything and everything they can, even if you have told them "no" dozens of times before. Be prepared for whatever random household item your dog decides is a tasty treat next.

With complimentary accident and illness coverage included in the Nibbles pet rewards credit card, you can be ready for anything. You also get 3x rewards back at the vet and at pet stores, so you can make this year the best yet with extra treats and more giant dog bones in their future.

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Thank you to Nibbles for sponsoring Daily Dig.

Ever wondered if your dog actually understands “I love you”? A small study suggests they may not know the words, but they definitely feel something when they hear them.

Researchers tracked four dogs’ heart rates over seven days. Their average resting heart rate was 67 beats per minute. When their owners said “I love you,” it jumped 46% to 98 bpm. Cuddling had the opposite effect, lowering heart rates by 23% to about 52 bpm. Owners weren’t immune either. Their heart rates rose 10% on average when reunited with their dogs.

So, how do dogs show love back? Experts point to a few classic signs: curling up beside you, enthusiastic tail wags and wiggles, bringing you a toy, exposing their belly, or seeking you out when they’re hurt or stressed.

Here are our favorite picks of the week, snow zoomies and nonstop smiles included:

• 🐶 The trick to covering vet bills

• ❄️ Why so many dogs absolutely love playing in the snow

• 😄 7 dog breeds known for their extra-joyful personalities

With complimentary accident and illness coverage included in the Nibbles pet rewards credit card, you can be ready for anything.

Daily Dig is inspired and brought to you by our wonderful dogs. Our dogs, and all the other pups out there, make the world a happier, brighter place. ❤️

With lots of love,

Stitcher, Minnie, & Finnegan 🐾

🦴 A Little Treat

🤔 Did You Know: Dogs wag slightly more to the right side when they’re feeling positive.

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