5 ways to make your dog happy

It’s a safe statement to say that dogs are pretty amazing. Unwavering love, affection and loyalty, there’s a reason they’re coined ‘man’s best friend’. Dogs give so much to us — studies even show they’re good for our health (meaning they don’t just fill our hearts with love, they actually make them healthier, too!). 

Considering dogs bring us so much joy, it only seems right that we do everything in our power to make sure they're happy and healthy, too. "Is my dog happy?" and "How can I make them happier?", we hear you ask. Fear not, as we've looked into the inner workings of a dog’s mind and compiled some top tips on how to make your dog happy...

Buy (or rotate) my toys

Variety is the spice of life, as they say, and your pup agrees. Keep things fresh and exciting for your dog by rotating two or three of his or her toys at a time. It’ll keep their brain active, and stave off boredom and toy fatigue. Plus, it’s so cute to see how happy they are each time they think they’ve found a new toy...

Put on a YouTube playlist

It will surprise you how much dogs really love YouTube. Yes, there are channels dedicated to keeping dogs entertained! Pups love watching videos of other dogs, cats and even just scenes of the great outdoors (just one of the reasons why dogs are better than cats). Grab your computer, tablet or phone — as long as you don’t mind the odd paw or slobber on it — and find a playlist full of engaging doggy videos. 

Have a dance party!

Dogs love to dance. Don’t believe us? Check out the Canine Freestyle Federation. If you want to uncover the real bond you and your pooch pal possess, hit the dance floor and jam out. And not to worry if you haven’t got the moves, because dogs also love it when you sing to them, so get those vocal cords at the ready — they may even join in!

Give them compliments

We all need a compliment now and again. Whether it’s how great you look or how well you’re doing during your workout, a few kind words can make you feel on top of the world. But did you know it’s not just us that thrive from this positivity — dogs love them too! So next time your clever pup does something to make you smile, be sure to tell them they’re a good boy or girl. It will most likely motivate them to do the positive act again — what a win-win for everyone!

Treasure hunt! 

Remember how talented your dog's noses are? Why not put them to work by setting up a treat fueled treasure hunt. Get your dog to wait while you hide tasty dog-friendly snacks throughout your home and garden, and then let them loose to find them. Trust us, it never gets old and your dog will love it. Just make sure to restrain to one treasure hunt a week — that way it makes it a special occasion and your dog will be less likely to put on those extra pounds. 

Please let us know if you try out any of these tactics or maybe you have another way of making your dog happy? Share them with us over on our Community Forum, tag us in your photos using #TrustedTales or send us a story at stories@trustedhousesitters.com. We can’t wait to see them!

Have a feline friend in your household? Why not read our top 5 ways to make your cat happy too.