10 Signs Your Dog Is Happy

As dog owners, we always want to ensure that our pooches are the happiest that they can be. While they cannot communicate with us verbally, the connection that we share in undeniable and they are always giving us clues and messages about their wellbeing. So let’s have a look at some of the top ways your pup can show you that they are happy, content, and feeling fantastic! If at all you think your pup is feeling depressed or unwell, always take them to a vet so that they can start feeling happy and healthy in no time!

• Your dog revels in playtime: A happy dog who is feeling all those good feels will adore playtime. They will be energized, active, and excitable. A happy dog loves nothing more than enjoying fun adventures with their human an you will see their joy as they run around your garden or lap up the surroundings of a beautiful walk in nature. Their tail will likely be wagging or in a neutral and relaxed position. If your pup suddenly stops wanting to play or go on walks they might be dealing with some pain and it’s best to take them to your vet for a medical check up.
• They have a great appetite: A happy pup will most likely be a hungry pup. They will be eating all their food and probably looking out for some extra delicious treats. A healthy appetite is a good sign of health and wellbeing. If they go off their food for more than a day it’s important that you get them to the vet for a check up. A lack of appetite can signal a number of health problems, or even point to depression and your vet might have to run a few tests to check that all is okay or to administer them the appropriate treatment.
• They enjoy snuggling their human: A happy dog will want to socialize with the humans in their life. When you cuddle them and give them love, they will lean into you and will want to be by your side. They might snuggle up next to you on the couch, or follow you around the house. This shows that you are their person and that they feel safe and loved around you. A happy pup will revel in cuddles and kisses and will be content to share that love with their people.
• They cannot contain their excitement when you walk in the door: A happy pup is going to showcase their absolute excitement when you walk in the door after being away for some time. They might run around your feet, jump up at you excitedly, wag their tail, or even let out some happy barks. This shows that your presence makes them happy and that they are feeling joyful. Be sure to give them extra cuddles and love and show them how happy you are to see them too.
• Their body language and position is relaxed: A happy dog will be relaxed and won’t be holding anxiety and stress in their body. If your pup seems tense and their ears are pricked, or they are stiff and tense, they might be feeling fear, stress, or anxiety. Happy dogs are relaxed. Their ears will be relaxed rather than pointing, their tail might be gently wagging, and their mouths might be slightly open and relaxed.
• They won’t be destructive: A telltale sign that your dog is unhappy, bored, or frustrated is if they are engaging in destructive behavior. This type of behavior can include chewing furniture, messing in the house, breaking their toys, digging, or incessant barking. This shows that the dog is lacking in mental, emotional, and physical stimulation and shows that they are bored. Many owners simply dismiss such behavior as ‘naughty’, however it is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that their dog is not bored or lonely. A happy dog will be relaxed and when left alone will not destroy their things or your home.
• They feel safe and comfortable around you: A happy dog will feel super safe around their family and this will be evident in their body language. They will happily lie in vulnerable positions (on their backs with their bellies out) because they feel safe and secure and know that no harm will come to them. Happy dogs are trusting and relaxed.
• They might ‘happy bark’: Sometimes when a dog is really happy they will engage in some happy barking. This is sometimes slightly higher in pitch than a usual bark and usually doesn’t last for too long. It might be when they’re playing in the garden, when their human comes home, or when they get a delicious treat like a juicy bone!

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• They will love playing games and learning new tricks: Happy pups want to please their owners and will enjoy games and mental stimulation. They will also enjoy learning new tricks and will be extra happy if you reward them with tasty treats and lots of snuggles and love. Spending quality time with your dog and engaging their brains and bodies is bound to make them happy.
• They will want to spend loads of time with you: A happy dog will want to be around their owner. They will follow you around and perhaps even stare lovingly into your eyes. Sure, they can’t tell you they love you verbally, but their behavior and body language will show you just how loved and happy they feel. Happy dogs want to be social and part of the family and you’ll pick up on this quickly.