Making Dogs Happy: The expert guide to being your dog's best friend

An illustrated handbook for dog owners to better understand their dogs and create a happy and fulfilled household. It introduces the idea of dogmanship and demonstrates key behaviors of dozens of furry charmers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2018
Publisher: Murdoch Books

Is your dog happy? How do you know? What motivates your dog and how can you make sure you're being a good human to your furry companion?

Any dog owner likes to think their dog is happy, but a recent study about dogs being hugged shows that many people interpret the signs incorrectly and don't know how to recognise anxiety in their animal. Making Dogs Happy is an illustrated handbook to getting to know your dog better for a happy and fulfilled household. Learn how to tell what motivates your individual dog, and you can train your dog accordingly. Written by a veterinarian and a leading dog trainer, it introduces the idea of dogmanship - the ability to interact with and train dogs. Fully photographed, demonstrating key behaviours of dozens of furry charmers, it's the one handbook no dog lover can go past.

Understanding your dog's behaviour is essential for creating a happy and healthy relationship. Dogs communicate through body language, vocalizations, and facial expressions, and it's important to pay attention to these cues to understand their needs and emotions. Some common signs of happiness in dogs include wagging their tails, licking their lips, and bringing toys or treats to their owners. However, it's also important to be aware of signs of anxiety or distress, such as panting, shaking, or hiding. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take your dog to the vet for a check-up and to work with a professional dog trainer to address any behavioural issues.

One of the key factors that motivate dogs is play and exercise. Dogs are natural athletes and require regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. Providing your dog with plenty of opportunities for play and exercise can help to keep them engaged and motivated. This can include playing fetch, going for walks, or participating in dog sports such as agility or obedience. Another important factor that motivates dogs is social interaction. Dogs are social animals and thrive on interaction with their owners and other dogs. Providing your dog with opportunities to socialize with other dogs and people can help to build their confidence and reduce anxiety.

In addition to play and exercise, dogs also need to receive love and attention from their owners. Dogs are emotional creatures and crave affection and connection. Spending quality time with your dog, such as cuddling, grooming, and training, can help to build a strong bond and create a sense of happiness and fulfillment. Providing your dog with a safe and comfortable environment is also essential for their happiness. This can include providing a comfortable bed, plenty of fresh water, and a secure space to play and rest.

Finally, it's important to be consistent with your dog's training and behaviour management. Dogs thrive on routine and structure, and inconsistency can create confusion and anxiety. Providing your dog with clear rules and boundaries and consistently enforcing them can help to build trust and respect and create a happy and healthy relationship.

In conclusion, understanding your dog's behaviour and what motivates them is essential for creating a happy and healthy relationship. Providing your dog with plenty of play and exercise, social interaction, love and attention, and a safe and comfortable environment can help to keep them engaged and motivated. Consistent training and behaviour management can also help to build trust and respect and create a happy and fulfilling household. By taking the time to get to know your dog and provide them with the care and attention they need, you can create a lifelong bond and a happy and healthy companion.

Weight: 912g
Dimension: 241 x 193 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781760634049