15 Things dogs can teach you about love

No one can win hearts like man’s best friend. They’re cute, smart, love to cuddle, and give their people unconditional love. But their amazingness doesn’t stop there; dogs can actually make you more attractive to members of the opposite sex! Our researchers looked at eHarmony profiles across the globe and found that those that showed a fondness for the Canis Lupus Familiaris (AKA the domesticated dog) were deemed more attractive than those without dogs or – ahem – cats.

So, in celebration of man’s best friend and Dog Day, we’ve outlined 15 things dogs can teach us about love:

1. Loyalty is the most powerful way to demonstrate love

The number one quality in dogs should also be the number one quality in people.

2. Puppy love is great, but real love deepens over time

Energetic, cute puppies may get all the oohs and aahs, but a wise, white-muzzled dog is cherished with a deeper kind of love.

3. A positive approach to life is always attractive

As the old saying goes, “Wag more, bark less.”

4. Unleash the one you love

Holding on too tightly will stifle independence and the freedom to grow.

5. Boundaries help to avoid conflicts

Dogs protect their space and, yes, mark their territory to ward off would-be intruders. Lovers also know that healthy boundaries create healthy relationships.

6. Different species can learn to communicate quite well

If dogs and humans can develop communication skills through non-verbals, intonation, and gestures, then surely men and women (who sometimes seem like different species) can also learn to communicate effectively.

7. Life is a journey to be savored

 You’ve seen the sheer joy on a dog’s face while its head is sticking out of the car window. That’s the way life is meant to be lived!

8. Circle around the bed as many times as necessary before settling in

Take your time—there’s no hurry.

9. Holding grudges does no good

Whether an insult involves harsh words spoken in frustration or a forgotten meal, dogs never nurture resentment. They are quick to move on, just as people should be.

10. Be comfortable in your own skin

Whether a Best-in-Show blue ribbon winner or a scrawny mutt from the pound, dogs are perfectly happy to be who they are. People should be too.

11. When you’re feeling happy, go ahead and let the world know it

Why hold back your joyful feelings? Jump, roll on the grass, run around the yard.

12. Love freely and unconditionally

You don’t have to meet a set of criteria or measure up to particular standards to be loved by your pooch—and you shouldn’t have to in order to be loved by your partner either.

13. Express your needs clearly

Our canine friends let us know when they are hungry, want to play together, and desire a belly rub. Human partners should also state their needs and not make the other person guess.

14. It’s okay to be domesticated, so long as you stay a little bit wild

Dogs may be trained and tamed, but they retain a bit of the wolf instinct that emerges every now and then. Lovers, too, should take a walk on the wild side once in awhile. Surprise your partner!

15. Always greet your partner enthusiastically

Dogs wait by the door and then give kisses when their person arrives. Human loves should do the same, whether they’ve been together one month or fifty years.

What has your pet taught you about love? Let us know in the comments below or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. And if you are ready to narrow down the world of possibilities, sign up to eharmony today- find someone made for you.

This article originally appeared on eH Advice.