Dogs show their loves in weird and wonderful ways that don’t always make sense to humans – but all you need to do is study up on animal body language to better understand what they’re thinking
Dogs have their own ways of expressing affection – and it doesn’t always make sense to their owners. However, experts say there’s a clear sign your dog adores you, feels at ease with you, and might even regard you as their favourite person, if they perform one specific action while sleeping.
In a TikTok video, user @amazinganimals. us revealed how dogs ‘mlem’ during slumber when they feel secure, calm and cherished. The informal term ‘mlem’ describes when a dog or other creature pokes out its tongue to lick its lips, nose or mouth – and this behaviour can be witnessed whether they’re awake or asleep. Their footage displays a dog mleming whilst nodding off – and maintains this represents the “greatest honour” your dog could ever bestow upon you as it demonstrates precisely how much they adore you.
The caption states: “There’s a message behind in that few people know about. It’s one of the greatest signs of love a dog can give, showing they feel totally secure and protected by us.
“We’re often missing this beautiful expression of their gratitude, but now we know to pay attention to it.”
Explaining how dogs demonstrate love towards their owners, specialists at Blue Cross say relaxed eye contact, tail wagging, lying near you, excited greetings and lots of licks are all unmistakable signals of affection.
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As part of this, if your dog manages to unwind around you then it’s a positive indication you’re doing something correctly.
A statement on the Company of Animals states: “Why do dogs lick you you ask? Dogs use licking to show affection and love.
“They may lick your face, hands, or even feet as a sign of affection and to bond with you.
“Licking releases endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals in the brain, making the interaction pleasurable for both you and your dog.
“Sometimes when they lick their lips this can often be a sign of nerves or apprehension but if they’re licking you, you can be pretty sure they’re doing it to show love!”.
Commenting on the TikTok video, one user said: “Love the mlems, Best sound in the world cause it means my babies are living their best lives.”
Another user added: “My dog comes to be every morning to get his face rubs and he mlem the whole time. He’s give and a rott x boxer mix.”
A third user said: “I thought that was just a thing that dogs do when you pet them.”
One more user added: “Both my dogs does it in their sleep and when they wake up.”