i’ve always wondered how to tell if my dog is actually happy. i mean, they wag their tail a lot, but is that always a sign? sometimes my pup runs around like crazy (zoomies, i think it’s called?), and other times just chills. what are the clear signs that a dog is happy?
wagging tail is a big one, but it depends on how they wag. if it’s super fast and their whole body moves, it’s usually happiness. but if it’s stiff or low, not always.
Hart said:
wagging tail is a big one, but it depends on how they wag. if it’s super fast and their whole body moves, it’s usually happiness. but if it’s stiff or low, not always.
oh i see! my dog does the full-body wag thing when i get home lol. so that’s a good sign?
you can also check their appetite. a happy dog usually eats well and consistently. if they suddenly stop eating, that might be a red flag.
Finn said:
you can also check their appetite. a happy dog usually eats well and consistently. if they suddenly stop eating, that might be a red flag.
yeah, mine gets SO excited for food lol. but what if they’re always hungry? does that mean they’re extra happy? 
@Ray
lol not necessarily, some dogs just love food. as long as they’re at a healthy weight and not acting stressed, it’s all good!
playfulness is a big sign too! happy dogs love to play, whether it’s with toys, zoomies, or just running around outside.
Shiloh said:
playfulness is a big sign too! happy dogs love to play, whether it’s with toys, zoomies, or just running around outside.
my dog does those zoomies ALL the time, especially after a bath. so that means they’re happy, right?
@Hero
for sure! zoomies usually mean they’re feeling good and energetic. does your pup also roll over for belly rubs?
@Hero
same! my dog sprints like a maniac after a bath
coat condition is another thing to check. a shiny coat usually means they’re healthy and happy. if they’re shedding a lot or have flaky skin, that might be a sign of stress or health issues.
Noah said:
coat condition is another thing to check. a shiny coat usually means they’re healthy and happy. if they’re shedding a lot or have flaky skin, that might be a sign of stress or health issues.
oh wow, never thought about that. does brushing help with their happiness too?
also, greeting you excitedly when you come home is a big one. if they’re at the door waiting, wagging, and jumping around, that’s pure joy.
Aubrey said:
also, greeting you excitedly when you come home is a big one. if they’re at the door waiting, wagging, and jumping around, that’s pure joy.
my dog does this every time! but sometimes they bring me a toy too… does that mean something?
@Hero
yep! bringing you a toy is their way of saying ‘welcome back’ and inviting you to play. 100% happy dog behavior!