10+ ways to make your dog smile

April 3, 8:34 AMSanta Barbara Pet ExaminerKaren Lee Stevens

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'Guinness' hams it up for the camera.

I once heard a dog lover describe his dog this way: “Her face was grinning so wide, she could eat a banana sideways.” Is your dog this happy?

If not, don’t despair. I’ve put together a list of enticing and exciting tips that are guaranteed to put a genuine grin on your canine’s furry face. One caveat: you’ll have to buy the banana yourself.

1) Take your dog for a walk (see how easy this is?).

2) Is your pup too pooped to walk? Plop her in her very own pet stroller.

3) Is your dog always home alone? Sign up for a doggie daycare service like Loose Pooch in Santa Barbara.

4) Sit, stay. Good dog! Register your dog for obedience training or agility and flyball classes.

5) Say cheese. Have a picture taken of you and your canine companion. Put the picture in a fancy frame and display it in your home or office.

6) Buckle pup for safety. Purchase a safety harness or “doggie seatbelt” and use it whenever your dog travels with you in the car.

7) Two words: Dog treats (need I say more?).

8) Entertain your dog while you’re away with The Movie for Dogs DVD.

9) Treat your pudgy pooch to a low-calorie snack (such as apple slices or carrots).

10) Give your dog a soothing tummy rub. Maryjean Ballner's book and video, Dog Massage, will show you how to rub your pup the right way.

11) Buy a kiddie pool for your hot dog (about $10.00 at Kmart), fill it with cool water and place it in a shady spot in your yard. (You just might enjoy this one yourself!)

12) Penny for your thoughts. Book a session with an animal communicator to learn what your dog really thinks of you.

13) Make a donation to your favorite animal charity (may I suggest my non-profit organization, ALL FOR ANIMALS)?