The 3 Secrets of Happy Dogs

When you get a puppy, you know that the main thing you want is very simple: to make each other happy.

Making your pet happy is about looking after all their needs and loving them every day. But, if you haven’t had a dog before, you might need a few hints to get you started.

Puppy Training

Dogs want to make us happy and as pack animals, they naturally expect there to be a leader. You need to be the leader! You can train your puppy at home yourself, using a step by step guide, or you can choose to take your dog to a training school where you will both learn together. The main advantage of a school is that you will be able to socialize your dog and get help if this is your first time training.

Treating your dog for doing the right thing will also help to reinforce good behaviour and dissuade him from bad behaviour. Having treats in your pocket when you go for a walk or you are training your dog to do new tricks is the best way to ensure they remain motivated to do as they’re told.

Keep Them Occupied

If there is one thing a dog loves, it is a long muddy walk with a good game in the middle. Going out and playing with your dog will give you time to bond and get to know each other. All dogs are different, so do take your own dog’s preferences and personality into consideration when planning activities. For example, some dogs might love going to doggy swimming classes, whereas others may prefer a good old-fashioned game of fetch.

If you are out during the day, you should also consider Dog DayCare. This is the perfect way to ensure that your dog has a great day too as they can play with new doggy friends and get out of the house. Depending on your dog, you could try this for a day a week to begin with and then, if it makes a big difference to your dog’s happiness, go for 5 days a week while you are at work.

Love, Love, Love

All pets want your love. You are their family and their best friend. Cuddles and play will always strengthen the bond between you and help keep your gorgeous dog calm and happy. Just like you, dogs need social time so try finding dog-friendly restaurants to go to or go for an extra long walk to spend quality time together. Even just chatting and letting him follow you around will encourage his pack behaviour and make him feel involved.

In the end, dogs are a lot like humans when it comes to being happy. They crave social interaction, love having something to do and learning new skills – especially when there’s a treat to be won! Even if you can’t spend every second together, having quality time will always work, and when your dog is happy, you will be happy too.