How to Keep Your Dog Happy

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A dog, also known as human's best friend, is happiest when he's healthy. Ensuring your dog's physical and mental well-being means keeping him stimulated, even when you are not home. Spending time with your pup and providing him with a healthy lifestyle is key to your dog's fulfillment.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Mental Enrichment

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  1. Dogs are bred for a specific purpose, whether it be herding or hunting, and can misbehave when these natural instincts are suppressed. [1]
    • Create an obstacle course in which your dog follows a scent to his favorite treats.
    • Provide him with food puzzle toys, like Kongs, to stimulate his mind.
    • Leave him with plenty of chew toys. These will not only strengthen his jaw and teeth, but also keep him from chewing up your shoes instead.
    • Hire a dog walker or someone to play with your pet while you’re away.
    • Dogs that are bored are more likely to be destructive, so giving your pup things to do when you're not around will help prevent bad behavior. [2]
  2. [3] [4] Keeping him isolated or at home all day can be detrimental to his emotional well-being and create fear when he finally does come in contact with other people or dogs. But always remember to take your pup’s personality into account so you know what his limits for socializing are. [5]
    • Take your dog on a walk, to the dog park, or set up play dates with other humans and their dogs. The goal is to get your dog used to being around other dogs. [6]
    • Have a friend, whom your dog knows and trusts, look after your pet once a week to get him used to other people.
    • If your dog has a cautious demeanor, introduce him to one dog at a time, and only if the other dog is calm and won't frighten your pup. [7]
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  3. [8] This will not only increase his mental stimulation, but also strengthen the bond between you and your pooch by making your expectations for him clear. [9] If you aren’t sure what training would benefit your dog most, contact a Certified Pet Dog Trainer. [10]
  4. It’s important to show your dog love and affection, but he is a tribal animal above all else. Your pooch will become confused without structure and consistency in his life, so be sure you stick to your role. [11]
    • Playtime is only for when he is calm and receptive.
    • Reward your pup with special treats when he has followed your directions.
    • During walks your dog should be next to or behind you.
  5. Never behave uneasy or anxious. Because you are the pack leader, these feelings are sure to rub off on your pet.
    • Nervous animals are more likely to be aggressive. [12]
  6. Believe it or not, your pup does have self-esteem, and there are things that you, as his owner, can do to keep it up. Praise your dog when he has mastered a new trick, along with other accomplishments.
    • Remember that your tone of voice is the key to communication with your pet; praise for him should sound different than a command [13]
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Part 2
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Physical Care

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  1. Especially if he is alone all day, a dog needs exercise just like people do. [14] [15] Take your dog on a walk around the block or play a fun, interactive game with him. [16]
    • Hide and seek will stimulate your pet’s mind and body.
    • If you have a high-energy breed, your dog could benefit from an agility class, which may be offered through your local shelter.
    • A puppy is especially precocious, so active games like tug-of-war and fetch will burn some energy and help to socialize him. [17]
    • For an older dog with stiff joints, water activities are a safe, low impact source of exercise.
    • If you have a small dog, consider finding a dog park that has specified areas where your pet can socialize with pup's his own size and temperament so you don't have to be skeptical of his safety.
  2. An animal is happiest when he can exercise, and to do so, he must eat healthful food. What you feed your pooch depends on his age, energy level and potential allergies. Organic, grain free kibble is always best if you are going to go the commercial route. However, some veterinarians also swear by feeding dogs “people food”. Dog-approved people foods include:
    • Raw, unsalted peanut butter
    • Baby carrots
    • Pumpkin
    • Green beans
    • Sliced apples
    • Oatmeal [18]
  3. The vet will provide an overall health screening, as well as any vaccinations your dog might need. It's best for puppies and older dogs to visit every six months, while once a year is adequate for adult dogs under the age of ten. [19]
    • This visit can also help you determine methods for keeping your dog’s ears and teeth clean, along with any other hygiene concerns.
  4. This includes making sure he has an ID tag on him, a fenced yard that will keep him safe from potential predators, and plenty of shade and water if he’s outside during warm weather.
    • Make sure your dog is securely fastened or confined during car trips and never let his head hang out of the window where he could be hit by airborne objects or thrown from the vehicle. [20]
    • Unless your dog is extremely well trained, leashing him when outside the yard is important, especially if you’re in a high traffic area.
    • Kids should always be supervised around a dog; young children should also never be allowed to hold a small dog as they can accidentally drop or injure him. [21]
  5. This will bring down his stress levels and soothe any joint pain he may be experiencing.
    • A slow rub down that reaches the muscle, fat and bones can work wonders to calm a nervous dog.
    • Daily massages can prolong the length and quality of your canine’s life.
    • Rubbing your dog’s joints can prepare him for physical activity and help him to unwind directly after. [22]
    • Great Danes and Mastiffs are especially prone to arthritis, so aside from a daily massage, nutritional supplements can be considered to keep these breeds healthy and pain free. [23]
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Part 3
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Breed-Specific Tips

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  1. Your Golden is especially prone to allergies and matting of his thick coat. Keeping his fur clean will help his skin from getting itchy and also better serve as insulation during the hot summer and cold winter. [24]
    • As a bonus, he won’t shed quite as much on your furniture.
    • Pay special attention to the feathering of his tail and legs which can get tangled easily, causing your Golden discomfort.
  2. While this breed is known for his loyalty and devotion, he needs a lot of quality time with you so he doesn’t get bored and destructive.
    • The high-energy Pit Bull isn’t the type you can leave alone or put outside for the entire day.
    • This athletic breed enjoys swimming, running, playing fetch or frisbee, along with most other sports.
    • Because he is a social butterfly, a well-trained Pit Bull appreciates human interaction, including time with your friends, family and even strangers, so be sure to get him out of the house. [25]
  3. This must be taken seriously since the Chihuahua, like some other small breeds, has trouble regulating his own body temperature, and doesn’t have a large amount of insulating fur. [26]
    • A Chihuahua is generally content to be cuddled up on his owners lap, both for affection and warmth.
    • Investing in a sweater for your Chihuahua will help keep him from shivering when he's outside.
  4. While a terrier is a fairly independent dog, he does require a fair amount of exercise. This dog doesn't require your supervision all day as long as you give him the means to play safely on his own. [27]
    • If your terrier is left with nothing to occupy himself, he may resort to digging or other destructive forms of entertainment.
    • He is especially fond of other canine companionship and playtime can be beneficial for socializing terrier breeds.
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How Often Should You Take Your Dog To The Vet?


Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How can I help my puppy with their separation anxiety?
    Osama Maghawri
    Professional Dog Trainer
    Osama Maghawri is a Dog Trainer and Founder of OneStopK9, a dog training service in Miami, Florida. Osama utilizes balanced training methods to teach communication between owners and dogs. He specializes in basic obedience and behavioral issues such as resource guarding, fear-based aggression, and leash reactivity. Osama also helps owners understand the behaviors of their breed and how to continue training on their own in the future.
    Osama Maghawri
    Professional Dog Trainer
    Expert Answer
    I recommend using a crate. A lot of people don't realize that puppies should be sleeping about 85% of the day, very similar to babies. They need to be taking a lot of naps so that they do not get overstimulated. Keep them in the crate to nap for about 2-3 hours, then play with them, feed them, and let them use the bathroom. After engaging with them, encourage them to go back in the crate. When you follow that structure, you can prevent behaviors like separation anxiety from happening.
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  • Question
    What if my dog gets bored even if I give him attention?
    Community Answer
    Try to play one of his favorite games or give him one of his favorite toys. If he is still bored, you can make up a new game, or a give him new toy to play with. If your dog is still bored, he might just not feel like playing that day, or he might be sick. consider looking for signs of illness; if you suspect something, contact your vet.
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  • Question
    How can I keep my dog happy if she doesn't like toys?
    Community Answer
    Take her out for runs and walks, spend time in nature together, give her special treats and belly rubs and pet her while she lays next to you.
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      Tips

      • Dogs love to learn, invest time in teaching them new tricks and commands.
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      • Understand your dog's temperament; keep your distance from small children, and others, if you know he is likely to show aggression.
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      • Be stern, but not aggressive when disciplining your dog. He wants to please you, so feedback is healthy. But of course, never yell at or lay a hand on your furry friend.
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      • Always use positive reinforcement and reward them often. Train your dog on how to be good, not how to not be bad. Acknowledge their good behavior as well as their bad.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-behavior/separation-anxiety
      2. ↑ Indigo Will. Professional Canine Expert. Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
      3. ↑ Jessica Powell. Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 5 October 2021.
      4. ↑ Osama Maghawri. Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 9 September 2020.
      5. ↑ https://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/what-your-dog-really-wants/31472
      6. ↑ Indigo Will. Professional Canine Expert. Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
      7. ↑ https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/training/socializing-adult-dog
      8. ↑ Jessica Powell. Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 5 October 2021.
      9. ↑ Osama Maghawri. Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 9 September 2020.
      1. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-behavior/enriching-your-dogs-life
      2. ↑ https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-behavior/basics/5-things-that-drive-us-crazy
      3. ↑ https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-behavior/basics/5-things-that-drive-us-crazy
      4. ↑ https://atlanticstatesbriardclub.org/voice.htm
      5. ↑ Osama Maghawri. Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 9 September 2020.
      6. ↑ Jessica Powell. Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 5 October 2021.
      7. ↑ https://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/what-your-dog-really-wants/31472
      8. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-behavior/teaching-your-dog-play-tug-war
      9. ↑ https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-approved-people-food/
      10. ↑ https://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/wellness-examination-in-dogs/4988t
      11. ↑ https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/pets-in-vehicles.aspx
      12. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-behavior/teaching-your-dog-how-behave-around-children
      13. ↑ https://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/how-to-massage-your-dog/
      14. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/arthritis
      15. ↑ https://moderndogmagazine.com/breeds/golden-retriever
      16. ↑ Osama Maghawri. Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 9 September 2020.
      17. ↑ https://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/breeds/the-chihuahua/
      18. ↑ https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/keeping-terrier-type-dogs-happy.html

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