Dogs bring their owners joy every day, but have you ever wondered whether your dog is happy too? From wagging tails to zoomies, here’s how to recognise the signs of a happy dog – and what you can do if they’re feeling low.
From rushing to greet us at the door to snuggling up with us on the sofa, there are many ways that dogs show us their love and affection. But how can we tell if they feel the same joy?
Dogs, like humans, can experience a range of emotions, including sadness and depression. By understanding their body language and behaviour, we can strengthen the bond with our four-legged companions and recognise the signs of emotional distress early, ensuring they get the support they need.
How do I know if my dog is happy?
To figure out how your dog is feeling, you’ll want to pay close attention to their body language. A happy dog will display the following signs.
Relaxed posture
A cheerful dog will usually have a loose and open posture, with their ears in a neutral position, mouth slightly open (often resembling a smile) and their eyes soft. They may also flop onto their back for a belly rub, showing they feel safe and secure in your presence.
Wanting to play
One of the most obvious signs of canine happiness is an energetic dog that wants to play. Whether it’s bringing you their favourite chew toy or initiating a lively game of fetch, exuberant play is a clear indicator your dog is feeling good.
Following you around
When your dog curls up by your side or follows you from room to room, it’s a strong indicator that they feel happy and bonded with their owner.
Happy barks
Soft vocalisations like gentle barks, sighs or even the occasional happy howl can all be signs your dog is in a good mood. Be mindful, though, as excessive barking can also be a sign of frustration or stress.
Does a wet nose mean a dog is happy?
A cold, wet nose is generally a sign of a healthy, hydrated dog, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate good mental health.
As your dog’s nose can vary in moisture depending on factors such as the weather, hydration or even sleep, it’s better to focus on their overall behaviour and body language if you’re looking for clues on their emotional state.
Does a wagging tail mean my dog is happy?
When we think of a happy dog, an excited tail often comes to mind, and it’s easy to assume that a wagging tail equals a joyful pup. But this isn’t always the case.
The position, speed and motion of the wag are important factors to monitor. While a loose, gently wagging tail held at mid-height is often a sign of contentment, a stiff or high wag could indicate fear or tension.
Do zoomies mean a dog is happy?
Zoomies – the random bursts of energy where your dog sprints around in circles or zig zags at full speed – are a sure sign of a happy, excited pup.
Known more formally as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs), these high-octane moments are simply your dog’s way of letting loose and expressing their delight.
How do I know if my dog is unhappy?
When dogs are feeling low, they can show signs that are strikingly similar to us – pulling away from social interactions or losing interest in their usual activities. Recognising these signs can help you determine if your dog is experiencing stress, anxiety, or, in some cases, depression.
If your dog is hiding away more often than usual, it could be a sign they’re avoiding social contact because they’re feeling unwell or anxious. Pay attention to changes in their behaviour, such as a lack of interest in food or treats – this could be another indication they’re not in the best headspace.
Body language is another important clue. A tense posture, a tail tucked tightly under their body, flattened ears or lip-licking are all subtle signs that your dog is no longer relaxed. Some dogs may also groom excessively in one spot as a way to self-soothe.
If your dog’s fear escalates, their behaviour may become more obvious, showing up as restless pacing or even uncharacteristic aggression. If you’re concerned, and you have dog insurance with Petplan, you can access our Pet Expert Chat through your My Petplan account for personalised behavioural advice.
How can I help my dog’s mood?
If your dog appears sad or stressed, there are a few simple steps you can take to help turn their mood around.
Make home feel safe and comfortable
Start by making your dog’s space as welcoming and secure as possible, with a cosy bed lined with soft blankets and favourite toys to keep them entertained. Dogs also thrive on a predictable daily routine, so try to stick to the same walking routes and meal times throughout the day.
Invest in some new toys
Playtime and puzzle toys can keep dogs stimulated, staving off unhappy periods of boredom and frustration. Depending on your dog’s preferences, you could surprise them with a new chew toy, a fun tug-of-war-game, or a squeaky teddy bear to lift their spirits.
Plan an adventurous outing
Exercise can be a real mood-booster for dogs, so head out to forests, beaches, parks and dog hiking trails to let your dog explore exciting new sights and smells. Scent work, frisbee and flyball in wide open spaces are all great options for keeping them engaged, as are Petplan’s Dog Adventure Parks – check if there’s one in your area.
Recharge their social batteries
Dogs are pack animals by nature and often love to be in the company of other dogs. If your four-legged friend seems lonely, consider enrolling them in a local doggy daycare group. Many offer dog-friendly playground equipment and group activities that can allow your dog to enjoy the mood-boosting benefits of exercise, while building their canine social skills.
Speak to a vet if you’re concerned
If your dog’s behaviour has suddenly changed or they’re showing signs of discomfort, it’s time to speak to your vet. Underlying health issues can often impact dogs’ moods, so a quick check-up can help to determine the root cause of their melancholy.
In some cases, your vet may prescribe anti-anxiety medications (such as fluoxetine) to help control your dog’s anxiety or depression symptoms. However, this should ideally be explored as a last resort, as often behaviour modification or other alternative approaches are far kinder to your dog’s wellbeing.
A qualified vet can talk you through all treatment options and provide all the guidance your dog needs to get back to their happy, waggy-tailed self.
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