Dogs are often depicted as the quintessential image of loyalty and unconditional love. They make us laugh, offer comfort during hard times, and improve our lives. The best thing we can do to return the favor is to give them a loving home and make them happy. Here are a few of the best ways to make your dog happy:

1. Spend Time with Them

Even if they have an independent nature, dogs love to be with their owners. A lot of the time spent with your dog has a specific purpose. It could be feeding, training, grooming, walks, playtime, or something else. One of the ways to make your dog happy is to simply spend time with them without a specific purpose in mind.

This could be as simple as them napping next to you while you watch TV, read, or work or some serious cuddle time filled with pets. Either way, your dog will love spending some stress-free bonding time with you and it will probably end up relaxing you both.

2. Playtime and Exercise

Branching off from simply spending time with your pup, playing with them and exercising them are other great ways to make them happy. As the cliche goes, “a tired dog is a happy dog”, and is often well-behaved as well. Exercise will help your dog get out some of that pent-up energy.

Also, much like us, exercise releases endorphins for your dog, which makes them feel happy. Additionally, playtime is fun. It’s fun for us, it’s fun for your dog, and is a great bonding experience.

3. Do Their Favorite Activities

Depending on your dog, their favorite activities will vary. Some dog breeds will love a nap in the sun, a hike through the woods, a swim, play frisbee, or something else. If your dog loves water, then take them swimming, use the water hose to play with them, take them to the beach, or on a boat ride on the lake.

Whatever your dog loves to do, within reason, make some time or plan a special trip to let them do it. They’ll love spending time with you and getting some exercise while doing their favorite activities.

4. Stop and Smell the Roses

Dogs explore the world through their noses. Rushing them through walks when they are trying to make exploratory sniffs is one of the ways you’re annoying your dog. Instead of rushing, make time every now and then for a longer, more leisurely walk where your dog can sniff around to their heart’s desire.

You do want to keep an eye out for any dangerous items or plants, but other than that, let them sniff away. This is one of the best dog walking tips. Plus, you both will enjoy the relaxing pace and the experience of exploring together. You might even discover a new area in your neighborhood or a new favorite walking route!

5. Bond While Brushing

Your dog may not enjoy having their teeth brushed, nails trimmed, ears checked, or their bathtime, but they probably enjoy getting a good brush-down, especially in the summer. Regularly brushing your dog helps to prevent tangles and mats, which can be uncomfortable and painful for your dog.

It also removes loose fur in general. Not only can brushing be a great bonding time with your dog, but it also makes them more comfortable, reduces the amount of itchy loose fur on them, and it keeps shedding contained to your dog brush. If your dog loves belly rubs, this can also be a great way to make regular grooming a positive bonding experience.

These are just a few of the best ways to make your dog happy. There are so many ways to spoil your dog without making them spoiled and there are plenty of activities you can do together to strengthen your bond. As long as your dog is well-cared for and gets to spend time with you, they’ll be happy. A little extra time, love, and care definitely doesn’t hurt and, besides, who can resist that adorable face?