Be More Dog!

“What we know, we largely know through thinking : dogs in comparison know through living” – Mark Rowlands, The Happiness of Dogs.

I have a cocker spaniel called Milo, he’s been with us since a puppy, 9 years now, and certainly changed my life for the better.  He doesn’t ask for much, is happy with pretty much the same routine every day but still can’t wait to see me after I’ve been to the corner shop for 10 minutes.

There’s a quiet wisdom in the way many dogs move through the world. They don’t read self-help books, track their daily steps, or worry about five-year plans—yet they embody qualities some of us spend years trying to discover. If you pay close attention, living with a dog can feel like sharing your space with a life coach.

1. Presence

Dogs are experts in being in the moment. When they’re on a walk, they’re on the walk—absorbing scents, sounds, and movement with full attention. They’re not mentally replaying yesterday or planning tomorrow. We might label it “Mindfulness”, something many of us struggle to achieve, yet it’s closely tied to reducing stress.

2. Joy

Dogs find genuine excitement in simple things, without overthinking. Humans (mostly adults), by contrast, often overcomplicate happiness—attaching it to achievements, purchases, or milestones.

3. Connection

Dogs don’t care what you look like or how “successful” you are. They respond to consistency, warmth, and attention. This highlights something easy to forget: relationships aren’t built on perfection; they’re built on reliability.

4. Forgiveness

Accidentally stepped on your dog’s paw? Raised your voice? Most dogs move on almost instantly. Holding onto every mishap can weigh down even the strongest connections. Dogs demonstrate that letting go can be liberating.

5. Curiosity

Dogs investigate. A new smell, a different route, a strange noise—they approach the world with curiosity.  As people get older, curiosity often gives way to routine. But curiosity is what keeps experiences vivid and minds open.

6. Loyalty

We often describe dogs as loyal. They greet you, wait for you, stay near you, look to you for guidance. Loyalty isn’t just a feeling; it’s something demonstrated repeatedly over time, and a mark of respect. A useful standard to apply to our own relationships.

I am reminded of a previous life when I delivered parenting programmes at local Childrens Centres and a young Dad in the group stated “it’s a bit like training a dog, don’t you think?”. Now, I don’t want to compare the two , but if you go through these points and replace the word “dog” with “children” then you’ll maybe agree that the happiness of dogs offers a kind of lesson.

Finally

Dogs don’t generally live longer than us, but in many ways, they live better. Not because their lives are easier, but because they engage with them more directly. They remind us that joy doesn’t always come from grand achievements or future goals. Sometimes, it’s found in routine, connection, and presence. Dogs don’t chase happiness—they live it, moment by moment.

References:

Rowlands, M. (2025). The happiness of dogs. (2nd ed.). Granta publications, London.

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