Dogs are the most loyal and loving animals in the world. They will be by your side through thick and thin. Always ready to give you a cuddle when you need it. Signs your dog is happy can range from tail wagging to licking its lips. However, these signs are not always visible so we came up with a list of ways to tell if they’re happy or not!
17 Signs that Your Dog is Happy
Wag That Tail
A wagging tail is one of the most obvious signs that your dog is happy. If you notice their tail going a mile a minute, then chances are they’re very excited about something. This can range from food to walks, and playtime with other pets!
Bowing
Another great way to tell if your dog is happy, especially after a good play session with other dogs, is they will seem to bow down. Bowing down is a submissive action that can convey that they are not a threat and do not want anything from the other animal.
Licking Their Lips
This may seem like an odd sign but it really isn’t as uncommon as you think! If you notice that your pet’s lips start to turn up at either side into a grin then chances are they won’t be able to contain themselves for long. Some owners believe this means their pets have been behaving badly. In reality, it is actually them showing happiness over something such as food.
Greet You With a Kiss
As we mentioned before, dogs are very affectionate creatures. Tail wagging is only natural and they want to show you some love! This means kisses, so be ready for the slobbery pucker if your pet gets really excited about seeing you.
Eyes Wide Open
Have you ever noticed how big a dog’s eyes can get when they’re happy? That white part of their eye will expand and make them look even more adorable than normal. You may also notice this in animals such as cats or horses but it is usually not quite as noticeable unless they’ve been playing hard chasing after something!
Sneeze with Eyes Open
A sneeze with eyes open means happiness for dogs because it’s usually done when there is something in their face that makes them happy – like treats or food. This can also be an indication that they’ve just woken up so if you see them do this before feeding them, don’t worry too much about it!
Playful
If your dog is leaping around and running in circles, then they’re probably excited to play with you. If this continues, or if it’s accompanied by barking, then chances are they want something else from you! For example, food, water, going outside, or just a scratch behind the ears.
Ears Up High
Dogs will often perk up their ears when they are more alert. Especially when they hear a happy sound, like mom’s car in the driveway!
Smile (yes really!)
The long snout of dogs combined with their smiling mouth makes it seem like they’re constantly smiling- even when they aren’t. This can be one of the most obvious signs that your dog is happy because all you’ll need to do is look at them and you’ll automatically notice it too!
Whining
Dogs sometimes whine when they’re in pain. If your dog whines while wagging its tail, then it could be very happy about something, This can range from food to playtime with other pets, or even a game of tug with you and its favorite toy.
Barking
Happy barking happens when another pet comes over for a visit- particularly one that your dog likes. This bark is usually noted by a higher pitch from excitement. There’s nothing better than making new friends. Just make sure you don’t let barking get out of control as that could mean something different (like boredom)! Signs like these will help ensure that your pet is happy and healthy – which makes you a very happy owner!
Paws on Your Lap
When your dog puts its paws on your lap while looking at you with loving eyes, it’s one of the biggest signs that they are happy to be with you. All you need to do is look into those beautiful eyes for confirmation or just give them a cuddle!
Lying on Their Back With Legs Spread Out
When your dog is laying flat out with their legs spread out, it means they’re relaxed, comfortable, and feel safe. This is also a sign that they’ve been running around or playing hard, so chances are they need to rest!
Cuddling With You on the Couch
If your dog spends all of their free time cuddled up with you on the couch, then they’re probably happy. Signs like these will help ensure that your pet is content and healthy.
Bringing You A Toy
When dogs bring you a toy, it’s usually because they want to play. If your dog brings this type of behavior into the bedroom and whines at night then chances are they’re too excited for sleep!
Going Crazy in the Backyard
Dogs that are running around like crazy in the backyard without stopping for any reason, usually mean they want to play.
Jumping Up With Front Paws Resting on Your Shoulder/Chest
When dogs jump on you, the first thing you should do is look at where their paws are resting because this can be one of the biggest signs that they’re super content. If this happens while wagging its tail, then maybe they want to be showered with some affection. This is a good time to give them a few cuddles or maybe a treat.
In Conclusion
Signs that your dog is happy are all around you! Maybe they are showing off their favorite toy. Perhaps they are performing their best outdoor trick. If they’re looking at you with loving eyes while cuddling on the couch, then chances are they are very happy!
Please find my other articles below:
- 5 Bad Dog Habits and How To Break Them
- 7 Reasons Why Dogs Sleep So Much
- Leaving Puppy In Playpen While At Work
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