What Makes a Dog Happy?
What Makes a Dog Happy?
Every dog owner has wondered what makes their dog happy. It’s a tricky question, especially because dogs can’t verbally tell you.
But there are plenty of signs you can look for that will let you know your pet is feeling good. Here are some of them:
1. They love you
Just like humans, dogs love to communicate with their humans. They learn to read our moods and anticipate what we need.
They may put a nose in your lap when you’re reading a book or check on you while cooking dinner. These affectionate behaviors are an indication that they’re happy to be around you!
2. They’re happy to see you
When you get home from a long day of work or traveling, your dog will probably be so happy to see you that they’ll jump up and lick your face.
This is a pretty common behavior. In fact, it’s actually a sign of a strong relationship.
3. They’re happy to play
Play is one of the most fun things your dog will ever do, and it’s a sign of their happiness.
A dog that’s happy will usually be jumping up and down, hopping around or spinning in circles, or doing whatever else they love doing!
They’ll also often have a tongue that hangs out sideways and a genuinely happy expression.
4. They’re happy to sleep
Sleep is an important part of your dog’s well-being. They need sleep to heal their bodies and recharge for the next day.
Getting enough sleep is crucial to maintaining your dog’s health and happiness, so it’s no surprise that they love a good night’s rest. A good night’s sleep can help them feel energized and ready to take on the world.
5. They’re happy to follow you
Dogs are naturally social animals and love spending time with their owners.
They are also predisposed to pack living, according to Tennessee veterinarian Kathryn Primm, DVM.
As a result, dogs naturally follow their humans everywhere—and often for no apparent reason at all.
6. They’re happy to be with you
Whether they’re jumping up and down at the door, or just wagging their tail and making weird, excited movements, your dog is genuinely happy to see you.
They’re happy to be with you because they know you care about them and are there for them no matter what. That’s a big part of why dogs are our best friends!
7. They’re happy to get treats
You might be surprised to learn that dogs love treats. This can be a great way to reward good behavior or teach them something new.
They can also be an excellent tool to get your dog to focus during training sessions. If you’re working on cues like sit or shake, treat-based rewards can be the perfect way to get your dog to perform quickly.
8. They’re happy to sleep with you
If you’ve ever had a dog, you know that they love to sleep next to their humans. It’s a natural instinct and an important part of their behavior.
Sleeping with you also helps them feel secure and loved, which can improve their sleep quality. Studies have shown that dogs release oxytocin, the love chemical, when they sleep with their human. It’s a powerful hormone that can help reduce anxiety and promote REM sleep.
9. They’re happy to share
Dogs are known for their generosity, so it’s no surprise that they would share food with others. But the behavior actually comes down to a bunch of different factors.
Researchers at the Messerli Research Institute in Vienna discovered that dogs were more likely to share their food with other dogs they knew than with strangers. They call it prosocial behavior—voluntary behavior that benefits other animals—and it’s a common trait in many species.
10. They’re happy to be with you
One of the most satisfying aspects of dog ownership is spending time with your best friend. They’re always eager to see you and they’re also likely to bring you everything from toys to special treats in their attempt to impress you!
If you’ve ever spent a day at home by yourself, you know that it can be quite a drag. Your best bet is to make your dog’s day as much fun as possible, which means giving them the attention and playtime they deserve.
