“Is your dog happy? Here are some clues!”
Have you ever wondered how to know if your dog is happy? It doesn't take much! Simply walking into the room is often enough for your sweet buddy to get excited. But there's happy and there's absolutely, fur-standing-on-end, circle-spinning elated. That's when you know you've gone above and beyond to really make your dog's day. Any of these signs of a happy dog sound familiar?
1. Getting lots of sleep: Happy and healthy adult dogs get many hours of sleep a day. If you and your dog have had an exciting day full of jogs, games of fetch, and other fun activities, your dog may be so happy and satisfied that she doesn't have any energy left. Instead of pacing around the house like normal, she may be passed out on the bed—or couch or the middle of the kitchen floor—snoring contentedly. If your dog's sleep schedule shifts or she's not sleeping that much, it could be a sign of stress or unhappiness. See our dog bed collection
2. Soft, relaxed eye contact: Eye contact is a major sign of trust in dogs, so those loving looks the two of you share while sitting together after a long day of hanging out are sure signs of a happy dog. When a dog is happy, their eye contact will be relaxed and soft, and they will continue to blink often. To protect dog eyes from UV exposure, our glass our glass series are awesome for that.
3. Good behavior on walks: The world is full of a bunch of stuff that dogs find really cool—mailmen, squirrels, a weird smell that's just begging to be investigated, you name it! Sometimes they need to follow their doggy hearts (and noses) to run after whatever catches their attention. If your good girl always comes back to you the moment you call her name, it means that she finds you way cooler than whatever she was after—and that's a sign of a very happy dog. Collar/harness/lead leash will definitely suit both of you. Portable water bottles. Clothes protecting him from cold jacket.
4. Having a healthy appetite: Every dog has its own eating habits and appetite. Some may be grazers, while others may eat their meals as quickly as possible. Regardless of how quickly they eat, dogs that are content and feeling well will have good appetites. A change in their eating behavior is a sign of potential unhappiness or illness.
5. Wagging tail and body: The most well-known sign of a happy dog is a high and wagging tail. Although every dog breed has a different relaxed tail position, happy dogs will generally raise their tails slightly. And when a dog is really happy, his whole body can wiggle along with his wagging tail.
6. Floppy ears: Although ear shapes vary greatly depending on the breed, a happy dog's ears are relaxed and will fall naturally against their heads. Ears that are pulled forward or back are signs of different moods, including hyper-interest and stress.
7. "Zoomies": Have you ever wondered "are zoomies a sign of a happy dog?" The answer is yes! Zoomies, or sudden bursts of energy and running around, are a playful way your dog can show off their happiness. When a dog experiences the zoomies, they may also display other signs of happiness, such as a wagging tail and playful expressions. These quick bursts of energy happen as dogs release their happiness and excitement, especially after being active or playing. If you’re able to, join them in the fun and show them just how much you appreciate their excitement.
8. Kisses and Licking: There’s no denying that dogs love to show their affection through kisses and licking. While this act can occasionally be a bit over the top, it's one of the key signs your dog is happy and wants to let you know how much they appreciate your companionship.
9. Playful stance and attitude
Dogs have all sorts of funny ways to initiate play with other pups and, of course, their favorite people. The "play bow" is a common move that you're probably familiar with—front legs and head down on the floor, butt and wagging tail up in the air. If you see this move every day (or several times a day), you can rest assured that you have one happy dog! Happy dogs may also present their favorite toy to you to gain your attention and encourage playtime.
See our sport equipment.
10. Enjoying petting and cuddles
A grateful dog may cuddle as close as possible while you sleep or relax on the couch. Happy dogs tend to make a lot of body contact with their favorite humans. If your dog stays close, or even leans in toward your hand while being pet, they are happy and enjoying the contact.