Food, housing, and companionship are our responsibility to dogs. Our reappearance reassures them and strengthens our relationship.
Dogs have keen senses of smell and hearing. They can smell us from afar and hear our footsteps or automobile approaching, increasing their anticipation of our return.
Dogs can create strong bonds with their owners. They detect our emotions and behave accordingly, so when we come home content, they share our joy.
Long-term isolation can make dogs bored or lonely. We bring stimulation, interaction, and a respite from seclusion, which makes them happy.
Dogs eventually learn that our return brings attention, affection, treats, and fun. Positive reinforcement reinforces their link of our presence with happiness and joy.