Dog behavior and body language: signs of contentment
Canids, in general, tend to be social animals which live in packs with strict hierarchies. Domestic dogs, which are a part of this family of mammals, are no exception. Besides the vocalizations you are familiar with, they also utilize certain behaviors and body language in order to communicate effectively with other dogs, animals, and even human beings. As a dog guardian, or even just a dog lover in general, it is useful to become acquainted with these habits in order to better understand and strengthen your bond with these four-legged friends. This is the first part of our series on dog behavior and body language, and this time we will discuss how dogs express their contentment and happiness. So, here are some signs that your dog is delighted.
1. A RELAXED DOG IS A HAPPY DOG
Much of the time, dogs will show their pleasure through excitement, with behaviors such as zooming around, jumping, and wagging their tails and whole bodies. However, many dogs are equally as joyful while at ease. While in this state, the dog’s body is not held tensely, posture is relaxed, eyes are soft and may be partially closed, and the mouth is slightly open. A dog showing its belly and exposing its underside comfortably is one that feels safe and loved.
2. A HEALTHY APPETITE INDICATES WELLNESS
It may often seem like the way to your dog’s heart is through his stomach! Rest assured though, your pup’s voracious appetite is not only an indicator of good health and both physical and mental wellness, but also of happiness. As with people, one of the first signs of any physical or psychological problems in dogs such as depression, anxiety, or stress, is a loss of appetite. So, if your dog’s eyes are bigger than his stomach, the reason may just be his jolly mood.
3.YOUR PAL HAS BOUNDLESS ENERGY
If your companion enjoys and looks forward to playing or taking his walks, this means he is living his life to the fullest. Similarly, if you are the recipient of a warm greeting whenever you arrive home, this indicates an elevated mood, and of course, affection towards you. In general, if your pup is active, has energy to spare, and seems to approach new situations with curiosity and excitement, these are tell-tale signs that all his needs are being met.
4.YOUR DOG SEEKS PHYSICAL CONTACT
Remember how we said that dogs are social animals? Well, with that being the case, dogs content within their social group will seek physical contact, and that may be with you! For example, they might lean into you, request pets, enjoy cuddling, and may sleep near you. If your dog just seems glued to your side, this means he is happy and comfortable in your presence.
5. EYE CONTACT IS MAINTAINED
Within their pack, dogs use eye contact to display either dominance to their subordinates, or trust and affection towards certain individuals. The first type of eye contact will come across as obviously confrontational and is easily distinguishable from the soft, adoring gaze which characterizes the latter. So, if your dog frequently stares lovingly into your eyes, just know that it means he holds you in very high regard.
6. THAT SMILE IS IMPOSSIBLE TO MISS
Just like humans, dogs smile when they are happy. The corners of their mouths will be distinctly upturned, and the same way the “wagging” movement may spread from just the tail to the rest of their body, they may “smile” with their whole face! The next time you catch your dog smiling, just bask in the glory of the moment, because you are the lucky witness of pure canine joy.
Based on what you have read above, can you spot the difference in this dog’s demeanor? These before-and-after pictures clearly display the contrast between Tino’s body language and facial expressions. In the “before” pictures, Tino clearly looks sad and unwell, while he looks markedly happier and healthier in the “after” pictures.
As you have learned, care and understanding can quite literally change a dog. If you would like to make more dogs happy, you can try to brighten up the shelter dogs’ lives at GMAP. Please consider adopting, volunteering, visiting, or donating to spread more “doggy smiles” all around. If you are a dog guardian, we also wish you and your companion endless joy.
Best regards,
The GMAP Team.
