5 Ways To Lift Your Dog's Mood

by Silvia Pereiras August 2, 2022

Try these simple techniques to help boost your pup's mood if they are down.

1. Take them on a nice walk where they can sniff away!

Behaviorist Zazie Todd likes to call this a "sniffari". She explains: "The nose is a very important organ for dogs - that's how they perceive the world. If you take them on a sniffari and they get to smell all the interesting smells, that's very enriching for them."

2. Give your dog choices.

"Choices help animals to feel in control, so that's good for their mental health.

Yes, we said mental health!

It could be as simple as which direction to go on walk, or which toy to play with - do they want to play tug or play fetch?"

3. Use better treats when you're training.

"Scientists have tested different rewards. They timed how fast dogs would run for different rewards and found that they would run faster to get a good quality reward rather than dry kibble. It's nice to know there's science to back that up!"

4. Set up a playdate.

"If your dog likes to play with other dogs, you should give them the chance to that. There is nothing better than watching dogs play and have fun."

5. Play with your dog.

Your dog has an unconditional love for you. They admire you. So it should come as no surprise that they are the happiest when you take the time out to play with them. "Playtime with a human has a different motivation for them."