Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, family, and gratitude — and that includes our four-legged family members!

While your dog can’t write thank-you notes or help carve the turkey, they have plenty of ways to show how thankful they are for you. From wagging tails to warm snuggles, here are 10 signs your dog is grateful to have you — and how you can make them feel extra loved this season (hint: it may involve some Thanksgiving inspired dog treats).

1. The Tail That Never Stops Wagging

A happy tail is your dog’s version of a love letter. Whether you’ve been gone all day or just walked into the room, that wag means one thing — you’re their favorite human.

 “A wagging tail is a dog’s way of saying thank you — without needing words.”

2. The Morning Greeting Parade

Does your pup greet you each morning with wiggles, spins, or a toy in their mouth? That joyful routine is one of the clearest ways dogs say thank you — an everyday reminder that you make their world brighter.

3. The “I’ll Follow You Anywhere” Walk

Ever feel like your dog is made of Velcro? Your dog’s shadow routine isn’t just curiosity. It’s gratitude. They trust you, love you, and simply want to be near you always.

4. The Gentle Lean

That subtle lean into your leg or shoulder during downtime? It’s your dog’s quiet thank you for being their safe place in a big, noisy world.

5. The Soft Eye Contact

A calm, loving gaze says more than words ever could. Soft eye contact is one of the most powerful signs your dog is grateful — it builds trust, affection, and connection.

6. The Shared Smile

That open-mouthed, relaxed “dog smile” isn’t just adorable — it’s an expression of happiness and contentment, often inspired by you (and maybe a soft-baked dog treat or two).

7. The Toy Offering

When your pup proudly drops a favorite toy at your feet, they’re not just inviting playtime — they’re sharing what makes them happiest. It’s a heartfelt, appreciation for their best friend.

8. The Cuddle Curl

There’s no better feeling than your dog curling up beside you at the end of the day. That cozy snuggle says: “Thank you for giving me love, warmth, and a home.”

“Dogs don’t say thank you — they show it, one cuddle at a time.”

9. The Happy Zoomies

Those bursts of energy? They’re your dog’s celebration dance! Zoomies are pure, joyful gratitude in motion — proof your pup feels safe, loved, and free to be themselves.

10. The Quiet Moments

Sometimes gratitude shows up in the quietest ways — a sleepy sigh, a soft head on your knee, or a gentle gaze that says, “I’m content because you’re here.”

This Thanksgiving, We’re Grateful Too ❤️

At The Lazy Dog Cookie Co.®, we’re endlessly thankful for all the pet parents who fill their dogs’ lives with love — and who choose wholesome, delicious treats to make each moment a little more special.

Whether you’re sharing one of our Thanksgiving inspired dog treats, surprising your pup with a gift from our Holiday Collection, or simply taking an extra-long walk together, every wag and every smile reminds us why we do what we do: to help you celebrate the joy of dogs every day.

So this Thanksgiving, when you sneak your pup an extra treat (shhhh- we won’t tell), take a moment to appreciate all the ways they show their gratitude right back.

From all of us at The Lazy Dog Cookie Co.® , Happy Thanksgiving!