Dogs may be smarter than we think. Here are some secrets of contented living that most dogs follow—and more humans need to:

• Never pass up the chance to go for a ride.
• Always greet your loved ones enthusiastically, even if they’ve been gone for only five minutes.
• Sometimes obedience is the best strategy.
• Carve out your niche—and let others know when they’ve invaded your space.
• Find time to run, chase things, and play every day.
• Eat with gusto!
• Be dependably loyal no matter what.
• Take frequent naps.
• Take time to stretch before getting up from your naps.
• Don’t bite when a growl will send the message.
• When someone’s having a bad day, stay close, be quiet, and nuzzle them now and then.
• When it’s hot, drink a lot of water and sleep in the shade.
• Enjoy long, rambling walks.
• Don’t take scoldings personally—you’ll forget them soon enough.
• When you’re happy, show it.