A tired dog is a happy dog. It's a sure sign of a pup that’s getting plenty of exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. As pet owners, it’s our job to ensure our dog’s happiness. We take care of them, and they’ll take care of us – and reward us with good behavior! Read on for five rules for a happy and well-behaved dog.

1. Exercise

Make it a priority to get your dog moving every day. Even better, make it a family affair by staying active yourself. Hiking, running, and walking alongside your pup are sure to tire you both out.

2. Connect & Play

Get on your dog’s level – literally – and play! Your dog thrives off a connection with you – their one true human. Their person for life. Give them a purpose and the love they deserve.

3. Quality Food

It’s important for your dog to maintain a healthy body weight. In addition to exercise, make sure they are eating quality dog food. A warning: The pet food industry is not well-regulated, so tread carefully when deciding what to feed your dog. Consult your veterinarian if you are unsure which food is best.

4. Yappy Hour

Just like you need your happy hour, your dog needs theirs. Most dogs are social dogs. Fulfill their need to socialize with other pups by visiting the dog park, organizing puppy playdates, or even hitting up our very own bark park at Olympus Willow Park.

5. Boost Their Confidence

Give your dog the confidence they deserve with a little basic training! Teach them basic commands like “sit,” “down,” and “stay.” Their eagerness to please you by learning a new trick paves the way for good behavior.

As the saying goes, “Happy dog, happy life.” Or something like that, yes? Fetch on, friends.

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