We want our Chihuahuas to be happy. Do you know whether yours is happy? Your Chihuahua gives you signs to show you that he is a happy little doggo. Do you know what they are?
Dogs don’t appear aloof as cats do and they don’t play hard to get. If they’re happy they show it unashamedly. You know the happy tail wagging and the licks. Especially the licks. Chihuahua’s are notorious for showing affection and happiness with big sloppy kisses; usually in the face.
But, in spite of that, some wonder if their Chihuahua is truly happy all the time. They can’t tell you with words, so you have to learn their doggy language and what these signs mean.
10 Ways To Tell If You Have a Happy Chihuahua
There are 10 common signs. It’s in their expressions and in their body language. If your Chihuahua exhibits these tell-tail signs on a regular basis, then you can bet your bottom dollar that he is as happy as you were hoping he is.
1. They Greet You At The Door When You Come Home
If your Chihuahua is waiting for you as soon as you open the door, that is a happy Chihuahua. Or in most cases, jumping up and down and excitedly turning in circles. This is a loud and clear message that he is very happy that you are back! It is a sign that the two of you have a special bond and a positive relationship.
2. A Happy Chihuahua Will Show You Their Belly
A dog’s underside is a vulnerable part of its body. When they turn over, lying on their back showing you their belly and wagging their tail, they are showing that they trust you explicitly. And he is asking for a belly rub! This is the purest form of happiness!
3. They Mind Their Manners
Chihuahuas that have destructive or aggressive behaviors — destroying throw pillows, chewing on furniture or shoes, biting, snarling — are generally under stress, anxiety, or may just be bored. If your Chihuahua exhibits these behaviors while you are away it could be a sign of anxiety, so check out these tips on helping your Chihuahua with anxiety issues. Or smart tips on keeping your Chihuahua busy while you are away. On the other hand, when they are content and happy they exhibit good behavior.
4. They Cuddle Up With You On The Couch
If you allow your Chihuahua on the couch and he hops up (or begs to be picked up) to curl up with you this is another sign that he is happy to be around you. Dogs, in general, are social creatures, and Chihuahuas are usually bonded to one particular person in the family, cuddling up next to you shows happiness and affection.
5. They Show You The “Play Bow” Postition
This is a common position for dogs showing you they are happy and feeling playful. When the front is down, the tail is straight up and usually wagging, ears are forward, eyes are directly on you, it is a clear invitation he wants to play, chase, or wrestle.
6. They Have a Healthy Appetite
A Chihuahua that can’t wait to chow down is generally a happy, healthy, and content Chihuahua. If yours refuses to eat or his appetite is less than usual he could be feeling some stress or anxiety. Anytime your Chihuahua’s appetite changes from eager to finicky suddenly, you should have him checked out by your veterinarian to make sure that there is not a serious reason for it.
7. They Tilt Their Head When They Look At You
Ahhh, the adorable head tilt. It’s a sign that your Chihuahua is in a good mood, happy, and/or they are intently trying to decipher what you are saying. The inquisitive look. They may display this look when it’s close to dinner time. The ears are down, but their big brown, black, or blue eyes are focused solely on you.
8. A Happy Chihuahua May Get The Zoomies
Dogs love to run. When they are excited and happy they need a way to burn off that excess energy. They will sometimes zip through the house or around the yard over and over again. Their tail is up, the mouth is open, and their tongue is often hanging out. They might even bark to let you know just how happy they really are.
9. When They Wag Their Whole Body
A wag is just a wag unless your Chihuahua is wagging his whole body! You know the one when you wake up in the morning or before eating, or maybe before a car ride or a walk, when their whole body wags along with their tail. That’s when you know they are really happy and excited!
10. When They Appear Calm and Relaxed
Not all Chihuahuas express their happiness in such obvious ways. Is your Chihuahua just naturally a calm and chill dog? Don’t worry. Being calm and easygoing are also signs that your Chihuahua is content. When their ears are up and forward, their mouth is slightly open and their eyes are soft you can rest assured that your Chihuahua is content and happy!
