Some Guidelines to Keep Your Dog Happy

4 minutes

If you want to keep your dog happy, you'll need to follow some basic guidelines. First, before getting a pet, make sure you have enough space in your home.

Written and verified by the lawyer Francisco María García

Last update: 21 December, 2022

There are so many things you can do to keep your dog happy. Before bringing a new pet home, you’ll want to make sure of a few important things.

Make sure that your home has enough space for him and that you have enough time to take care of his basic needs. These don’t just include his physiological needs, but also his need to play, receive affection, etc.

A suitable place for your dog

The place where your dog spends most of his time has to be comfortable, well ventilated to avoid odors, and it should also be clean for everyone else in the home. Additionally, to keep him happy, it’s also important for it to be an area that’s proportionate to his size.

Once you bring your new dog home, you’ll need to spend some time teaching him the rules of the home and how to control his physiological needs.

Diet

A good, quality diet is fundamental for your pet’s health and well-being.

You have to give your dog food that’s specially made for dogs. This food will keep his fur healthy, bright and beautiful. Don’t just feed him leftovers from your own meals.

Keep your dog happy as he grows old

You have to help your dog grow old with dignity. You should take him out for a walk at least 10 minutes a day so he can exercise and stretch his joints. It’s an easy way to keep him happy.
Walking is great exercise for both of you. Additionally, this fun activity will establish and strengthen your relationship with him.
Dogs should take a bath twice a month. Don’t overdo his washing or he may develop a skin condition.
Keep your dog happy by getting rid of any parasites. These pests can cause allergies and diseases. You should talk to your vet to get more information about treating and eliminating parasites.
Your dog needs to play. You should devote a lot of time to your pet, and he’ll pay you back with plenty of affection.
Fresh water is essential for your dog’s health. Keep his bowl full and change it daily.

Treats, gifts, trips and more

When he behaves well, obeys, etc. you should reward him with a dog treat. There’s nothing that shows your love better than giving him his favorite treat. This is also an example of positive reinforcement.
A trip. Just like you love a change of scenery, so does your dog. Whether it’s going to the field or taking a walk in the park, he’ll love it.
Many dogs also love to swim. You could take him to a beach that allows pets, to the river, to a pool, etc. However, you have to make sure that he likes the water first.
Be careful with the medicine you have at home. You shouldn’t act like a doctor or a vet. Medication that is meant for humans can be harmful to pets.
A veterinary clinic professional will prescribe the appropriate treatment. It’s a good idea to ask the vet what a dog’s first aid kit should contain.

A new puppy

When you bring a new puppy home, you have to make sure he adapts well in order to avoid accidents. You’ll need to get rid of anything that could hurt your curious, playful animal. Remember, sharp edges can hurt him.

Additionally, you should have the vet’s number at hand, as well as an emergency number. You may need it when you least expect to.

Of course, your friend’s toys have to be 100% safe for him. Some toys contain chemicals that are dangerous for dogs. In addition, pay special attention to any small objects you have around the house that your dog could swallow.

Dog language

You can have perfect communication with your dog if you really work at it. He can’t talk, but he can make you understand how he feels using his body language.

Don’t stop observing him. His tail is a great indicator of what he wants to convey. For example, if it’s low, it means that he’s afraid and anxious. On the other hand, if he’s moving it a lot, he’s happy.

When you call your dog, make sure you do it in a kind, friendly tone of voice. Avoid shouting. Remember, they can’t understand your words, but they can understand your emotions.

Lastly, if you spend too much time away from home, you may want to think about getting another dog. That way, they’ll be able to keep each other company and have fun together. If this isn’t possible, you could hire a dog sitter for a few hours to keep your dog happy.