Do dogs really know when we like them? I don't count tail wagging,

[Obamanaut]

because mine do that randomly, even when watching a squirrel.

I mean really know. We have five, and the four smallest sleep with us with the larger one on the floor by the bed. They all seem content with this arrangement.

When I hold one in my lap and scratch a belly, or just look at a face and a pair of eyes looking back at me - do they really know, or are simply savoring that moment?

[david13]

1. They do know when they are being treated nicely, and like they

want to be treated, and when they are being mistreated. They are savoring the moment, but it lasts for them, when you put them down, they remain content til the next time when they need reassurance.
The tail is just a reflection of excitement. Eagerness.
They are followers. Not like cats, who demand to be equals, or challenge for leadership.
dc

[livetohike]

2. Yes, I believe they do.

My dogs have all known when I was sick with a migraine headache. They would jump up on the bed and lie down next to me. If I pet them, they lick my hand or my face. I think it's their way of showing affection too.

They definitely know when we are happy with them vs. when they have done something we're not so happy with :-).

[Obamanaut]

3. I know they can tell when we are "not right." When Miz O was in a

rehab hosp after a motorcycle accident, I took one of the small one to visit her twice. Sophie had only been on a leash to go to the vet or the groomer, but both days at the hosp she was perfectly behaved with a loose leash, sat on the lap of anyone who wanted her, and when Miz O took a nap between therapy sessions, Sophie laid right beside her, perfectly still for the whole nap.

And, there were no 'accidents' indoors either.

on edit, should have used spel chek button