Why dogs choose favorites
When dogs pick their “favorite” person, it’s not so much a matter of preference as it is familiarity. Dogs learn by association, so in the same way that they might associate the jingling of car keys with a trip to the park or a rustling plastic bag with a tasty snack, they associate certain people with certain experiences. one of the best associations to have with your dog is not that of the walker or even the feeder, but as the one who gives the best affection.
Dogs who are petted, groomed, massaged, and just generally adored by someone will likely bond more closely with that person. Why? Well, to put it simply, feeling good feels good, and dogs yearn for these joyful experiences just the same as people do.
How to be your dog’s fave
#4. Who they socialize with early is a big factor
Dogs have an important socialization period between birth and six months. This is the age where puppies’ brains are developing. Their brains are very receptive and the social experiences the dog has during this time can influence them for the rest of their lives.
The person who is there during this period, who has more positive experiences with the dog at this period, can become the favored human. Sometimes, any person who resembles the human who was there during the socialization period can become favored.
As a side note, this is why it is important for dogs to be socialized to many different types of people during this period. It will help them be comfortable with more people later on.
#3. Positive associations are huge
Closely related to above, dogs can choose their favorites based on positive associations. The human the dog associates good, positive, warm feelings with will be the favorite. This might be the person who always has the treats, always plays games with and other reasons.
#2. Attention and affection improve bonds
Unsurprisingly, most dogs tend to bond with the person who gives them the most attention. They may also prefer the person who feeds them frequently. Dogs also will usually fall in love with the person who gives them the most physical attention and love. Lots of petting, brushing, massaging can cause a dog to love that person the most. Sometimes they will love the person who plays with them the most. Again, all dogs are different.
#1. Human and dog personality
Much like people, dogs are attracted to people who have a similar personality to them. A dog who loves to play and roughhouse will be attracted to the person who feels the same way. A dog who likes predictable, quiet time on the couch, will find the person who enjoys the same things.
You can still become your dogs favorite
Just because you’re not your dog’s favorite doesn’t mean that you can’t do things to increase the bond between the two of you.
