How to Tell If Your Dog is Happy! 

How to Tell If Your Dog is Happy! 

Do you ever look at your dog and wonder what they are thinking? What about when they dream, and their paws move, and they give out a faint bark? Maybe you are wondering what they are thinking when they are enjoying their favorite treat or bone! However, the most important thing that you are wondering about is if your dog is happy. Let’s dive deeper and see for ourselves.

Assuming all your dog’s basic needs are met, and they are not unwell, how can you tell if your dog is happy? There is a handful of signs that we will mention below. However, it is important to know that most dogs aren’t necessarily “unhappy”. If they are not happy, they may be bored or scared. Just keep in mind that boredom is more of a chronic condition, while fear is more acute.

Here are five ways that you can tell that your dog is happy:

  1. A wagging tail. This is a huge indicator of happiness! In fact, in the happiest moments, the tail can seem to wag your dog’s entire body!
  2. A loose body. This includes soft eyes, soft ears, and lots of wiggles.
  3. Good behavior. Dogs who suffer from boredom might find their own fun which may be destructive. Think about shredded paper towels or biting on shoes. Happy dogs love to exhibit fun, playful behavior, and engage with people and other animals.
  4. A healthy routine. Your dog sleeps and eats and bathrooms normally. They get a good amount of physical and mental stimulation each day and it shows!
  5. Physical contact. The happiest dog will find a way to touch you. Even dogs who don’t love cuddles as much will poke you with their nose, touch your hand, and so on. A happy dog will seek out a bit of this contact to the degree that makes them the happiest.

Chances are that your dog displays all of these signs and that is a good thing! Paying close attention to their actions and behaviors is a sign that they are living a happy life. Think about some of the ways that you can add to their happiness. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and enjoy new things with your four-legged friend!