Is there anything better than coming home to the sight of your happy dog wagging its tail? Your dog is an important part of your life, and for all the love they give you, you need to make sure you return it thousands of times over in the way that you care for them.
Keeping your dog healthy can be simple and straightforward, but many dog owners can easily miss a step or two. To help give your dog everything they need, you need to make sure you give them what they need.
Here are some simple tips for helping your dog stay happy and healthy.
Give them a balanced diet
Dogs need a balanced diet to help them stay fit and strong. While many dogs can be greedy and try to eat everything in sight, it’s important to be disciplined with their diet. A balanced diet should include protein, vegetables and starchy foods like brown rice or potatoes, and there are plenty of ready-made dog food brands that specialize in creating healthy, nutritious meals for your pet.
As well as making sure they get the right foods, dogs also need dental care. Using dental chews and other products can help dogs mouths stay healthy, while also keeping them away from your shoes! Giving your pet the best joint supplements for dogs can also help them to stay healthy as they get older – keeping them mobile and active. Speak to your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s diet.
Stay up to date with vets appointments
Your dog needs regular checkups to make sure they’re fit and healthy. A regular trip to the vet can make sure that all vaccinations are kept up to date, as well as flea and worming treatments. Put a regular appointment in place so that you know your dog’s health is being monitored.
Keep an eye out for changes in behavior
When something’s wrong with your dog, you’ll normally be able to tell by their behavior. They could become withdrawn and quiet, become more agitated and aggressive, or anything else that isn’t in their typical character. If you’ve noticed changes to your dog’s appetite, this could also be a warning sign that something’s wrong.
Always monitor your pet closely and don’t wait around to get any concerns checked out by a vet.
Give them plenty of exercise
Dogs need a lot of exercise to stay healthy, and all of those walks and playtimes can also be great for your health too! How often you should walk your dog depends on their age and size. Puppies will need a lot less exercise than an adult dog, while a small breed won’t need as much time outside as a larger dog. A longer walk at the weekend can be a good way to get outdoors and enjoy time together, so take a look at nearby locations like parks or beaches where they can really enjoy themselves!
If you’re going to be out of the house a lot, then getting a dog walker is recommended to come and take your pooch out for a bit. It’s a small price to pay compared to having to replace your furniture after a restless dog destroys it!
Make sure they’re entertained
Dogs love to be entertained, and there are all sorts of ways you can play with your dog. While going out to the yard is an easy option, it’s not always the right option when the weather is miserable or it’s too hot outside. There are different ways you can keep your dog entertained indoors, including making sure that you have plenty of toys around. Games of hide and seek with treats can also be fun to help bring out the sniffer instinct in your pet.
Dogs love the company, so if you can avoid leaving them on their own for too long, the happier your pet will be. You can always leave the radio on to make sure they’ve got some form of company, and a home camera is a good way to check up on them throughout the day!
Caring for your dog can be a lot of work, which is why it’s important to make sure you’re really ready for one before you bring them home. From making sure they eat well to giving them plenty of daily exercise, there’s a lot you can do to give your dog the best life possible. Make sure your dog stays happy and healthy by giving them everything they need.