Summer is (finally) here, and some of us are home for the holidays, and others are packing their suitcases for a well-deserved trip away. Whether you are getting a dog sitter, or you’re packing your pooch with you, how can you tell what your dog is thinking? Are they happy that they’re staying with gran? How can you tell whether they’re also excited for a weekend away? 

There are some signs all dogs show when they're truly happy. Here are ten ways to tell if the tail wagging and big eyes mean happiness for Fido this holiday season!

1. They eat well

Much like humans, a happy, healthy dog tends to have a healthy, consistent appetite. A drop in appetite is a definite sign something is up with your dog. You should also be alert if your dog experiences a sudden increase in appetite (are they refusing some leftover holiday ham?), as this can also indicate disease.

2. They’re happy socialising

Happy dogs will enjoy socialising - both with humans and other dogs. If they're happy and confident, they will enjoy walk time, playtime and engaging with other dogs. At Hanrob Dog Training Academy we work with many dogs who may be shy around other dogs, and it's incredible to see the impact this skill can have on the dog's overall happiness - not to mention its owner's!

3. They don’t dig up the garden (or display any other destructive behaviour)

Happy dogs are unlikely to destroy your home, (or your holiday Airbnb we hope). Excessive chewing and other unwanted behaviour can be a sign of stress and boredom. If your dog isn't getting enough stimulation or interaction with other humans and dogs, or if they are suffering from separation anxiety, then your home may suffer. This is one of the reasons doggy daycare is becoming increasingly popular. You can also easily add mental stimulation to your dog's day with some simple enrichment tools.

4. They’re excited when you get home

You’ve arrived home from your holiday with a golden tan and a refreshed mind. But is your dog running to give you the doggy kisses that you’ve missed so much? Youknow your dog is happy when they're excited to see you. A happy dog will be excited to see you even when you've only been outside for a moment!

5. They have 'puppy-dog' eyes

While narrowed eyes may suggest aggression and wide eyes fear, relaxed eyes, and eyelids, with a soft gaze indicates a happy dog.

6. Their ears, body and mouth are relaxed

When a dog is checking out a new environment, or on high alert, it will wag its tail, but in this situation, it's usually stiff and the body won't move. When your dog uses their whole body to wag their tail, then you know they're telling you they're happy and relaxed.

7. They use their whole body when wagging their tails

When a dog is checking out a new environment, or on high alert, it will wag its tail, but in this situation, it's usually stiff and the body won't move. When your dog uses their whole body to wag their tail, then you know they're telling you they're happy and relaxed.

8. You're jealous of their hair

Happy, healthy dogs tend to have a shiny coat. On the other hand, if your dog is stressed, they may shed their fur excessively.

9. They sleep well (and sometimes stick their tongue out!)

Happy dogs get plenty of sleep. They will sleep for around 12 - 14 hours a day. If your dog isn't sleeping that much or is finding it hard to sleep, they could be distressed. A happy dog will also tend to let their tongue roll out of its mouth during a good sleep (often after a long Christmas lunch, just like the rest of us) - a sure sign your dog is truly relaxed and happy!

10. They have a high-pitched bark   

You can tell a lot about your dog's state of mind by their bark. If the bark is short-lived and high pitched it tends to indicate a happy dog. If your dog is agitated, the barking would tend to be longer, and lower. Of course, you need to weigh this up with all the other signals your dog is giving you, rather than judging the bark alone!

We’re passionate about jolly dogs, all year round. However, whether it’s Christmas time or not, a happy and healthy dog should  daily mental and physical stimulation. At Hanrob, we know the signs of a contented pup, so we educate owners through our wide range of services on how they can improve their fur family member's wellbeing in both mind and body!

To find out more about dog training or doggy daycare at Hanrob, click the links below or call 1300 426 762 to speak to an expert pet consultant about your requirements. Please find the links below. 

Hanrob Doggy Daycare
Hanrob Dog Training Academy
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