The true test of whether a dog is happy with his pack is simple. Put him outside your front door, close it, and see if he stays or runs away.
One afternoon, our dog Augustine (Gus), found himself on the wrong side of that door. We didn’t notice at first because our youngest had accidentally left him out. For about 30 minutes, he waited outside.When we opened the door, Gus was there, just laying down comfortably by the door. He could have wandered off, explored the neighborhood, or chased after any of the countless scents outside. But he didn’t. He stayed close, waiting for us.
[Gus joining us for a car ride]
We often wonder about our dogs’ happiness. Are they content? Could they have a better life elsewhere? It’s easy to think that dogs, with their simple needs, are happy as long as they have food and playthings. But what happens when they’re given the choice to stay or go?
I’ve known dogs that would bolt the moment they saw an open door. I babysat a dog once that darted out as soon as the door cracked open. Growing up, I knew many dogs like this, always ready to seize their chance at freedom, even if just for a brief adventure. They didn’t hesitate; they ran.
This comparison brings into focus the real measure of a dog’s happiness. Some dogs, given the chance, choose to run. Maybe they see the outside world as more exciting, or maybe they don’t feel as connected to their home. But a dog that waits by the door is telling you something profound. They’re saying, “This is my home. This is where I want to be.”
Gus’s choice to stay with us, even when the world was open to him, was a simple but powerful statement. He values our companionship over the unknown. It’s a reminder that true happiness for our dogs isn’t about the things we give them but about the bonds we share.
So, next time you wonder if your dog is happy, think about this simple test. It’s not about how many toys they have or how often they get treats. It’s about where they choose to be when they have the freedom to go anywhere. For Gus, and for many dogs who wait at the door, happiness is being part of their pack. And that’s where they truly find their joy.
Kern Keep 