Happy Dog Secrets

What is it that makes a dog a truly happy dog?

FIVE SECRETS

1. Happiness is getting a move on. Just like people, dogs feel great when they are in good shape. Different dogs require different amounts of exercise, but giving your dog a daily chance to run will help your dog stay happy and healthy.

2. Happiness is preventing health problems. Be sure to prevent problems before they start as your dog cannot tell you when he/she does not feel well. Take your dog to the veterinarian regularly.

3. Happiness is mental stimulation. Give your dog plenty of chances to meet new people and dogs. Take your dog out into nature to sniff. Give your dog puzzles to solve.......such as finding a toy or treat.

4. Happiness is the right foods in the right amounts. Choose a well-known dog food, and do not overfeed your dog with too many treats or snacks between meals.

5. All you need is love; most dogs love to be petted. Give you dog at least five minutes of your full attention and lots of petting daily.

Dog Tail

Do dogs wag their tails because they are happy? Yes and no.....

A dog's tail is a part of a dog's body language and allows them to communicate. Dogs wag their tails when they are happy but also when they are feeling "alert" or "agitated".

A dog's tail is part of a complex system of body language that the domestic canine uses (along with "verbal" cues such as barking, growling or whining) to communicate. A wagging tail indicates excitement or agitation - but whether he means it as an invitation to play, or to warn another dog or person to stay back, depends on other body language.

A wagging tail that curves down and backs up into a "U" usually indicates a relaxed, playful dog. If his ears are erect and pointing forward, and he is in the classic "play bow" position, he's inviting you to play.

A tail that is held higher, whether wagging or not, indicates dominance and/or increased interest in something. If the end of the tail is arched over the back, and is twitching back and forth, you may be faced with an aggressive dog.

The tail is a purely social indicator for other living things. A dog doesn't usually wag his tail when alone. For instance, say you pour your dog a bowl of food. He may wag his tail excitedly at the prospect of eating. But if he comes upon the bowl already filled - without anyone being around - he most likely will not wag his tail. He may still be happy to eat, but there's no one around to whom he can communicate his state of mind.

Smiling Dogs

Dogs are always ready to please and are happy with even the slightest gesture on our parts... whether it is a little playtime or "one more" treat.

Dogs seem to have and endless supply of happiness.

Here are some photos that capture this wonderful spirit.