Tell-Tail Signs of Delighted Dogs

As dog owners, we obsess over our animals and constantly monitor moods in order to ensure they are happy and content.

While most of the signs of a perfectly at-peace pooch are obvious, it pays to know when our four-legged friends are at their most sumptuously soothed.

Of all the creatures in our kingdom, dogs are probably one of the easiest to understand. They can express sadness, irritation and need, yet it is in the pursuit of happiness that they are at their most animated and loveable.

Comfort

For a dog to be happy, it must be comfortable in your presence, and this playfulness comes through in the way they request your time and attention. So if they push themselves towards your hand when you’re reaching out to stroke them, it’s a key indicator they like being in your company.

Stance

Happiness can also be seen in a dog that displays looseness in its shoulders, perhaps accompanied by soft and inviting eyes.

And of course we’ve all seen dogs splayed out, lying on their backs – this is perhaps the ultimate indicator of a chilled out four-legged friend.

For a more subtle display of contentment, a dog that stretches front legs out and raises the hind legs shows he is ready for engagement and entertainment.

Interaction

When your dog is itching for you to interact with him in a good-humoured way he will usually bow his head, intimating a desire to play. Put into words, it’s a case of, “come on, let’s go!”.

And of course, a wagging tail and excited tongue is perfect indication that a dog wants a ball, stick or toy to be launched.

Bark

Most high-pitched barks are synonymous with a dog who is happy, although the vocal range of some breeds is naturally high anyway.

That shouldn’t rule out a canine who expresses satisfaction with a low bark, but this will usually be gurgled and drawn out, perhaps changing tone or losing intensity at the end.

Attention

When a dog’s ears are pricked, something has got their attention. It could be a noise or a sudden movement, and their curiosity will want to hunt out the mystery.

Individuality

Of course, dogs have personalities and their own uniqueness, with different breeds displaying their own idiosyncrasies and quirks. Only you, as an owner, will know your animal’s mannerisms best, and this is the joy of owning an animal and getting to know them.