How to have a happy dog: Experts reveal nine-part formula to help your pet live their best life – so, does it sound familiar to you?

Do you ever catch yourself wondering if your dog is truly happy?

While a waggy tail can be a telling sign, it’s hard to know for sure if they’re satisfied day-to-day.

Now, one of the UK’s leading dog behaviourists has created a nine-part formula to help your dog live their best life.

Dr Tom Mitchell, a well-known figure in the world of dog behaviour and training, said: ‘There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to happiness.

‘Every dog is unique, and as their owner, you know them best.

‘Think of this formula as your toolkit, ready to be tweaked to suit your dog’s personality and lifestyle’.

He has detailed how much affection, play and training each owner should aim for.

So, will you give his formula a go?

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CALM SETTLING (at least 60 per cent of the day)

Dr Mitchell said dogs ‘thrive on calm’ and as much as 60 per cent of their day should be in a relaxed atmosphere.

Calm time can let your dog decompress and helps their brain stay balanced and resilient, he explained.

Owners could create a quiet room at home, with their dog’s favourite blanket and some gentle background music, with a few chew toys to keep them relaxed without over-exciting them.

SLEEP (at least 10 hours)

A 2020 study found dogs sleep about 10 hours a day, helping them process the world around them.

Well-rested dogs are calmer, happier and better learners.

Dr Mitchell said owners could try and reward their dog with a treat for making good sleep choices – for example choosing to take themselves off and settle down in their bed.

Setting up a cosy sleep space could help, as well as using calming sounds like soft music and avoiding disruption before bed.

NUTRITION (balanced and gut friendly)

Looking after your dog’s diet is key, Dr Mitchell explained, and it is closely linked to their happiness.

‘Not only should you feed a diet rich in high meat content and natural ingredients but also ensure it is rich in prebiotics – these help maintain a healthy digestion and act as the fuel for the micro-organisms doing the hard work of building those happy chemicals,’ he said.

‘The national dog owner obsession of how their dog’s poo is looking isn’t misplaced; the easiest measure of how your dog’s gut is doing is by assessing their poo.’

PLAY (30 minutes total, in 5-minute bursts)

Short, frequent bursts of play have been shown to improve learning and reduce stress.

Owners could try and range of play activities including a tug-of-war, hide-and-seek with treats or even an obstacle course.

AFFECTION (at least 20 minutes, but there’s no maximum)

Stroking, cuddles, or simply sitting together builds trust and connection, Dr Mitchell said. 

However, it’s important to know when your dog has had enough.

Observing their behaviour is key – for example, lip-licking, panting, moving away or going very still can be signs your dog isn’t enjoying it.

MOVEMENT (1-2 hours daily)

Daily movement helps keep joints healthy and minds alert, Dr Mitchell said.

And not every dog need to hit the great outdoors to stay active.

Indoor-friendly ways to keep your dog moving include food-dispensing toys, training sessions and indoor obstacle courses.

ENRICHMENT (1 hour of ‘figuring stuff out’)

In a 2019 study, it was shown that simply by incorporating enrichment into the lives of dogs in a rescue centre, they were more likely to pass the behaviour tests to then go on to find their loving homes.

This could involve challenges such as puzzle toys, snuffle mats, trick training or a new walking route.

SOCIAL INTERACTION (every day)

Most dogs prefer human company and quality interaction – such as play dates with friends and family – is vital, Dr Mitchell said.

‘Contrary to wolves, domestic dogs get a larger oxytocin surge from interacting with their human family than other dogs, so if your dog can be unpredictable with other dogs or finds them a bit scary right now, rest assured the most important interaction in your dog’s life is with you,' he explained. 

TRAINING (four 3-minute sessions daily)

A few fun, reward-based sessions a day can build confidence and strengthen your bond with your dog.

Name training, lead training and confidence training can all help.

‘The best thing about this formula,’ Dr Mitchell said, ‘is that it’s completely flexible.

‘Each component can be tailored based on your dog’s individual personality and their likes and dislikes!

‘You know your dog better than anyone – and this gives you the tools to shape a life full of tail wags, calm evenings and joyful adventures.’

Dr Mitchell teamed up with Harrington’s, a natural pet food brand, to create his ‘happy dog’ formula.