A dog's happiness is often evident through their body language and behavior.
Key Signs of a Happy Dog
According to dog trainer and behaviorist Dominik Feichtner, a happy dog typically displays the following characteristics:
- Loose Body Language: A relaxed posture is a key indicator of a happy dog. This includes:
- An open mouth (often with a slight pant).
- A loosely wagging, elevated tail, not tucked down between the legs.
- Relaxed eyes, not wide or staring with tension.
- Ears that are not pinned back flat against their head.
- Full Body Wiggles: A happy dog might exhibit a full-body wiggle, showing their joy through their entire body.
- "Zoomies": Another sign is what Dominik Feichtner calls "the zoomies," which are bursts of playful energy where they run around quickly.
Summary of Happy Dog Indicators
| Sign of Happiness | Description |
|---|---|
| Loose Body Language | Relaxed posture, open mouth, loosely wagging tail, relaxed eyes and ears. |
| Full Body Wiggles | Showing joy through movement of their whole body. |
| "Zoomies" | Bursts of playful energy, running around quickly. |
By observing these clear signs, you can confidently determine if a dog is happy.
