Tail and Body Wagging A gentle, loose tail wag from side to side with the tail in a neutral or slightly raised position can signify happiness in a dog. Look for a slow, rhythmical wag with a casual quality
Loose, Bouncy Stride A happy dog will have a loose, relaxed and smooth gait during walks, taking their time to explore their surroundings
Physical Contact Happy dogs seek physical contact with their owners, like snuggling up on the couch or nudging your hand for affection.
Soft, Relaxed Eyes A happy dog will have a soft gaze with eyes opened wide and frequent blinking. Look for a relaxed expression without tension or stress lines around the face.
Relaxed, Half-Mast Ears The ear carriage should be relaxed, not flat back or held forward, in a "half-mast" position
Relaxed, Inviting Body Language A happy dog's physicality will feel like an invitation for you to come closer or just hang out together, not pushing you away.
Ability to Switch Between Arousal and Relaxation A happy dog can transition from an excited state during play to a relaxed state afterwards