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The Five Freedoms: The Key to a Happy, Healthy Dog

Writer's picture: Ryan Leese Ryan Leese

As dog owners, we all want to give our dogs the best life possible. But what does that actually mean? How do we ensure that our dogs’ basic needs are met while also keeping them happy, mentally stimulated, and free from stress?

One of the best ways to assess your dog’s overall wellbeing is by looking at The Five Freedoms—a concept originally developed for farm animal welfare but now widely recognised in dog husbandry and welfare. These freedoms form the basis of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, ensuring that all animals under human care receive proper treatment.

In this blog post, we’ll break down each of the five freedoms and how they apply to your dog. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how to prevent unwanted behaviours, improve your dog’s quality of life, and strengthen your bond.


Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/jaxoNRjU-i8



What Are the Five Freedoms for Dogs?

1️⃣ Freedom from Hunger & Thirst – Providing a suitable diet and fresh water at all times.

2️⃣ Freedom from Discomfort – Ensuring a comfortable and safe environment.

3️⃣ Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease – Proactive healthcare and recognising signs of pain.

4️⃣ Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour – Allowing dogs to act naturally, including sniffing, chewing, and playing.

5️⃣ Freedom from Fear & Distress – Avoiding punishment-based training and supporting emotional wellbeing.


Let’s take a deeper look at each freedom and how small changes can have a huge impact on your dog’s behaviour and happiness.


1. Freedom from Hunger & Thirst 🦴💧

This one might seem obvious, but it goes beyond just putting food in a bowl. Many dog behaviour problems stem from poor diet.


  • Is your dog’s food nutritionally complete? Processed diets can contribute to long-term health problems. Consider fresh or high-quality kibble options.

  • Does your dog have constant access to water? Dehydration can lead to lethargy, confusion, and irritability.


👉 Tip: Try using a scatter feeding or use a snuffle mat to make mealtimes more enriching!


2. Freedom from Discomfort 🛏️🏡

Dogs need a safe, comfortable environment to rest and relax. This isn’t just about a cosy dog bed—it also means considering their entire living space.

  • Is your dog’s bed comfortable and in a quiet area?

  • Does your dog have the right amount of space? Crates can be a safe place when used correctly, but keeping a dog crated for too long can cause distress.

  • Are your dog’s travel conditions safe? Ensure your dog is secured in the car, with proper ventilation and shade.


👉 Tip: Slippery floors can contribute to long-term joint issues—using rugs or carpet runners can help prevent injury.


3. Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease 🏥🐕

Dogs are masters at hiding pain, so we need to be proactive in spotting health issues before they become serious.

  • Regular vet check-ups can catch problems early.

  • Dental health matters! Poor oral hygiene can lead to pain and infections.

  • Does your dog suddenly show unusual behaviour? If a dog suddenly starts snapping, avoiding interaction, or struggling with cues they know, it could be a sign of pain.


👉 Tip: If your dog’s behaviour changes suddenly, always rule out medical issues first.


4. Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour 🐕🐾

A dog’s natural instincts drive their behaviour. If we don’t provide an outlet for these instincts, unwanted behaviours can develop.


  • Sniffing is vital! Dogs experience the world through their nose, so let them explore on walks.

  • Chewing and licking release calming endorphins—try enrichment toys like

    K9 Connectables (Get 10% off: https://k9connectables.com with code rldogtraining10).

  • Working breeds need a job! Herding dogs like Border Collies benefit from activities like agility, scent work or even just learning the names of their toys and finding them.


👉 Tip: Next time your dog is hyperactive, try mental stimulation games.


5. Freedom from Fear & Distress 🧘🐶

This is one of the most overlooked areas in dog training. Fear-based training techniques, or harsh handling can cause serious emotional harm and damage trust.


  • Training should be stress-free! Avoid tools that cause discomfort (e.g., shock collars, prong collars).

  • Recognise fear signals: Lip licking, yawning, and avoidance are all signs of distress.


👉 Tip: Always advocate for your dog. If they’re uncomfortable in a situation, listen to their signals and help them feel safe.


Final Thoughts: How Can You Use the Five Freedoms to Improve Your Dog’s Life?


Taking time to audit your dog’s daily life using these five freedoms can make a world of difference. Even small changes—like switching to a harness, adding enrichment, or tweaking your dog’s diet—can lead to a happier and healthier companion.


💬 Let us know in the comments: Which of the Five Freedoms do you think your dog needs more of?


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The Best Long Lines & Leads - Houndagrip ➡️ https://www.houndagrips.com/?ref=RLDOGTRAINING

Tug-e-Nuff Toys for Play & Training – 10% Off with RLDOGTRAINING ➡️ https://tug-e-nuff.co.uk/

⭐️K9 Connectables - K9Connectables are designed to engage, and entertain. https://k9connectables.com/ and use the code rldogtraining10 for 10% off


Final Takeaway

By following The Five Freedoms, you’ll prevent behavioural problems, ensure your dog feels safe and happy, and strengthen your bond. Subscribe to RL Dog Training on YouTube for more science-backed, positive reinforcement training tips!


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