American Foxhounds are known to be easy going and sweet-tempered in nature. This makes them an ideal breed for an active person or family. Although Cooper is an American Foxhound, he was born with a very serious ‘shortcoming.’ In keeping with the reputation of his breed, he isn’t letting them slow him down one bit. In fact, in 2021, he was named the “Happiest Dog Alive”.
What makes Cooper’s title so incredible is that he was born with a very unusual defect. Several of his cervical spine vertebrae were compressed and fused together in utero. As a result, Cooper was born without a neck. No one expected Cooper to make it but he surprised them..
How Did Cooper Become The Happiest Dog Alive?
A few years later, the lovable Foxhound still manages to get around. Cooper has to turn his entire body to look anywhere other than straight ahead, but that does not stop him from living a full and happy live.
Luckily for Cooper, the staff at Secondhand Hounds in the lovely town of Minnetonka, Minnesota rescued him. He was only 2 months old when they found him abandoned due to his serious, spinal deformities. Cooper’s compressed cervial spine led to his lower spine being higher up his hind region.
With his tush being located so much higher up than it should be, it is hard for him to defecate. If this wasn’t bad enough, he also had ear mites and a hernia. They were able to help Cooper defecate properly with a sucessful surgical repair. Ear;y on, Cooper fell and fractured his c-spine in five locations. Thankfully, he not only survived but recovered. Being able to go to the bathroom on his own and taking antibiotics prevents infection.
Cooper was finally ready to be adopted . Allthough his first adoption attempt did not work out, the second attempt was a success. Elly and Andy Keegan adopted the little guy, who fits right in with their other dogs. Elly was interviewed on Inside Edition and quoted as saying: “It’s hard because he can’t go for long walks and can’t spend a lot of time on hard surfaces. He has to be on soft ground like grass or carpet.”
In spite of the occasional need to accomodate his challenge in taking long walks or being on a hard service, he has a great life and is dearly loved by his family.
Could Your Dog Be The Happiest Dog Alive?
Do you know how to tell if your dog is happy? There are a few indicators that are well known to be associated with a happy dog. Dogs express their happiness and contentment in various ways. It’s important to remember that individual dogs may have unique behaviors and personalities, but some common signs of a happy dog include:
- Wagging Tail: A wagging tail is often a sign of a happy dog. However, not all wagging tails mean happiness; it’s essential to consider the context and other body language.
- Relaxed Body Language: A content dog typically has a relaxed body, with no signs of tension, stiffness, or raised hackles.
- Playfulness: Happy dogs often engage in play, such as running, chasing, and play-bowing.
- Eager Ears: When a dog’s ears are forward or perked up, it can be a sign of attentiveness and curiosity, which are often associated with a positive mood.
- Smiling: Some dogs appear to smile, with their lips pulled back and their mouths slightly open. This expression can indicate happiness.
- Panting: Dogs may pant when they’re happy and excited, but this should not be confused with excessive or stressed panting.
- Wiggling or Spinning: Dogs may wiggle their bodies or spin in circles when they’re happy and excited.
- Playful Barking: Happy barks are often more playful and less aggressive in tone.
- Cuddliness: Some dogs become more affectionate and seek cuddles and petting when they’re happy.
- Appetite: A healthy appetite is usually a good sign. Happy dogs tend to eat their meals eagerly.
- Relaxed Blinking: Slow, relaxed blinking from your dog can indicate trust and contentment.
-
Frequent Eye Contact: Dogs who maintain eye contact with their owners are often showing affection and trust.
Conclusion on being the happiest dog alive
It’s important to note that the key to understanding your dog’s emotions is to pay attention to their overall body language and the context. If your dog is exhibiting a combination of these signs and seems relaxed and comfortable, it’s likely they are happy. However, if your dog’s behavior suddenly changes, it could be a sign of discomfort or distress, and you should consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer for guidance.
Photo courtesy of Inside Edition