Is my dog happy? Cracking the code

Updated 28/11/2023

As devoted dog owners, it's only natural to wonder if our four-legged friends are living their best, tail-wagging lives. We all want to ensure our beloved pups are happy and content, so we’re answering the all-important question, “Is my dog happy?”. We’ve translated everything from tail wags to long awoos to uncover the unmistakable signs your dog is happy. 

How do I know if my dog is happy?

Our furry friends may not have mastered the human language (yet), but they certainly have their own ways of telling us how they’re feeling. From the tips of their wagging tails all the way to the ends of their tippy-tapping toes, your dog’s body language shows us humans how they’re feeling. 

But you’re not sure how to tell if your dog is happy. Well, it’s not too difficult to work out when your pup’s over the moon in one particular moment - they’ll usually wag their tails, soften their ears, and even whizz around in an uncontrollable bout of zoomies. But how do I know my dog is happy in general? Let’s take a look at the “Is my dog happy quiz”.

Is my dog happy? 

Here are the tell-tail signs of a happy dog…

Soft ears

If you’re happy and you know it then your ears will surely show it, right?! Whether you’ve got a floppy-eared buddy or not, happy hounds relax their ears rather than pricking them up or flattening them against their head. 

Relaxed tail and body

Nothing says happiness like the sight of a canine companion completely chilling out. It goes without saying that tail wags and full-body wiggles are also signs that your dog’s practically bursting with joy! 

The happy dog dance

Those body wiggles sometimes develop into a full-blown happy dance, which involves tip-tapping the toes from side to side in excitement. Being welcomed by a pup that’s literally jumping for joy is bound to put a smile on your face!

Smiling from ear to ear

Yes, dogs that are happy might flash a toothy grin from time to time! A relaxed, open mouth combined with a tongue lolling out is a sure sign of happiness! 

Enthusiasm and motivation

Whether your pup’s raring to go at the first mention of walkies or they love playing with their pet parents, pooch pals, or anyone else for that matter, their zest for life will be contagious! If your furry friend regularly demonstrates the play bow, otherwise known as an invitation to play in dog language, rest assured, they’re pretty happy!

Affection 

If your furry friend’s a fan of the snuggles, we don’t think you need us to tell you your pooch pal’s a picture of contentment! A happy hound often enjoys making new friends at the dog park (both furry or otherwise) and being stroked, and may even lean into you for more attention. 

A healthy appetite

Happy, healthy pups generally enjoy their food. If you notice a change in your pooch pal’s appetite, this could be a sign they’re feeling under the weather. 

A good night’s sleep

Your furry friend should be so tired at the end of the day that they fall into a long, deep sleep (10-14 hours a day, to be precise). If your pup’s not getting enough sleep, this could be a sign something’s afoot.

Good behavior

Following cues and instructions is a sign of happiness in dogs. Four-legged friends won’t want to break the rules if they’re happy with their lot, and following their pet parent’s lead is a sign of love and respect. 

How to make your dog happy 

Do you know what makes dogs happy? While it’s important to have a thorough understanding of your furry friend’s individual needs, if your pooch pal needs a little more attention in the tail-wagging department, take a look at the following advice.  

Make them comfortable

Make sure your pooch pal has got everything they need to be happy. This includes a clean, quiet space to call their own as well as nutritious daily meals and clean, fresh water. Regular trips to the groomers are needed to keep their coats in tip-top shape, and paying attention to your fur baby’s health and well-being is crucial. 

Mental and physical stimulation

Dogs need to be mentally and physically stimulated in order to be happy and healthy; this means giving them regular exercise and working their brain cells with puzzle toys, training, and playtime. While our canine companions are creatures of habit, that doesn’t mean they’ll be excited by the same old thing day in, day out - spice it up by taking a different walking route, changing out their chew toys, and meeting up with other pet people and their pooches. 

Keep them company

Most of our four-legged friends are social beings, and they enjoy spending time with their loved ones both inside and outside the home. When life takes you out of town, having an in-house dog sitter ensures your pooch pal gets all the love and attention they’re used to, right in the comfort of their very own home.

Meet our veterinary expert, Emma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.

You’re now fully equipped to answer the question “Is my dog happy?”, plus you’ve got all the tips and tricks to ensure your pooch pal’s floating on cloud nine, 24/7! Remember, a happy dog equals a happy life, for both of you!