My pet parents always make me feel welcome and cared for, so I have lots of ways to say “thanks” and let them know how much I appreciate them. Find out my favorite “Happy Dog Signs” with these paw tips and hints into my most expressive happy dog emotions.
Sign #1: A Swooshing Smile
Some pet parents find it hard to see a dog’s smile, but that's because they are looking at the wrong end. It’s all in the tail! We smile often and heartily, but don’t confuse other common wagging behavior with a big grin. A swooshing tail that goes side to side is usually a sign of a giant smile, but sometimes we use a circular pattern to indicate a case of nervous anxiety instead. A tail held high is a sign of confidence and contentment, especially when combined with a positive experience.
Sign #2: Romping & Rolling
Despite my most dignified manner, nothing is more delightful than romping, rolling and relaxing with other dogs and my pet parents. It doesn’t take a lot to make me giddy with happiness — a bright, sunny day with my favorite toy or maybe a little game of “catch me if you can” is all I need to romp, roll and play to my heart’s content. Sometimes life is so good that all I can do is jump for joy!
Sign #3: Let’s Go!
My pet parents are wonderful and I love to show them off every chance I get. In fact, almost any adventure will do: from a quick trip to our favorite dog park to hitting the open road with the wind in my fur (and ears), my enthusiasm for life never wanes with my favorite companion by my side. My curiosity is boundless, especially when presented with new sights, smells and happy sounds with my protective pet parent to guide me. I love exploring new places, searching for hidden treasures and discovering unmapped territory with my pet parents in tow.
Sign #4: Bright-Eyed and Bushy-Tailed
I’m not sure what intuitive pet parent first adopted this phrase for use with dogs, but it is nice of them to notice my big, bright puppy-dog eyes looking at them with adoration. Yes, my eyes tend to show all of my strongest emotions including happiness, relaxed contentment and of course, puppy love. I use other bright-eyed expressions to indicate my readiness to hit the road or outright excitement for going bye-bye, so take time to learn my cues including the use of one ear or eye brow, a funny crooked smile, tilted head or other distinct peculiarities I save just for communicating with that special someone.
Sign #5: I’m Talking Here…
Sometimes I’m so curious, eager and excited that I can barely contain myself. So don’t be surprised if I let out a short bark or even a little whine sometimes. After all, it seems to work pretty well for my young two-legged friends when they are in a rush to get going. From a big dinner date to our daily walk, remember that happy dogs have places to go and things to do, too!
Sign #6: Invitation to Play
If you ignore my play bow (rear end up in the air with chest low to the ground, ears up and big wagging tail), then chances are I will try to up the ante by running in circles while trying to entice you to play fetch with a really fun toy or object. I know that once you see what a good time I’m having you will want to join the fun. Live life to its fullest and come play with me; you will be surprised how invigorating and healthy just 10 minutes of exercise and activity can be for both of us!
Sign #7: Just Being by Your Side
After a long day of work and play, nothing beats curling up at the feet of my pet parent and sharing a little quality quiet time. My sleepy eyes and relaxed manner show how comfortable and content I feel just having them by my side. In fact, sometimes I sleep so soundly after being tucked away in my favorite bed that I might even snore or have happy doggy dreams about tomorrow’s big adventure. You'll know I'm having an exciting dream if my legs and paws are moving and my eyes are experiencing rapid eye movement, just like my human friends' eyes will do when they're dreaming.
Ahh, it might be a dog’s life, but thanks to pet parents like you, I’m a happy dog and it shows.
