There are good reasons why dogs are referred to as man’s best friend. Apart from eating food and chasing their tail, their whole purpose for being is to keep their owners happy. There are several things that you can do to return the favor. Here are six tips to keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come.
1. Provide Proper Nutrition
Every living being needs proper nutrition. For your dog, this means giving her the right type and amount of food. You want her to maintain a healthy weight, thereby preventing obesity-related diseases. Proper nutrition can help your dog live longer.
Your dog should be able to meet its nutritional needs with a balanced diet of quality food. Talk to your veterinarian and see if your dog needs any supplements added to their food because of age or infirmity.
Ensure your dog gets a sufficient amount of freshwater. Limit the number of treats you give her. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake.
2. Get Your Dog Up and Moving
Dogs are active animals. They need to go on regular hikes and walks. Play fetch with your dog, take them swimming, and keep her physically active and fit.
In addition to physical stimulation, your dog needs mental stimulation. Teach your dog new tricks and practice them. Change up your walking routine so your dog can be exposed to new sights and smells. Provide toys that allow you to hide treats on the inside, thereby stimulating your dog’s thinking ability.
3. Take Your Dog to the Veterinarian Regularly
In the same way that people benefit from annual checkups, dogs benefit from a yearly wellness exam. During the exam, your veterinarian will perform several health screenings to make it easier to detect disease and identify the warning signs of serious illness. If your dog has a problem with heavy plaque and tartar buildup, you may wish to schedule yearly dental appointments to keep their teeth healthy.
4. Give Your Dog Affection
You want to build a strong bond with your dog. It is good for you and your dog. This includes rubbing your dog’s belly, brushing her coat, and letting her sit next to you. These activities strengthen your emotional connection to your pet. They also increase the chance of your pet having positive interactions with other humans.
Because your dog forms a strong bond with you and you develop a strong bond with your dog, when it comes time to say goodbye to your pet, it can be a heart-wrenching experience. For Philadelphia residents, at-home euthanasia Philadelphia centers, like HomeHeart Vets, allow both the pet owner and the pet they have so much affection for to go through this challenging situation with comfort, compassion, and dignity.
5. The Importance of Socialization
Early socialization of dogs, including exposing them to people and other animals as a puppy, reduces the chances of fearful, aggressive, or antisocial behaviors in your dog as an adult. The most critical time to socialize with your pet is between a few weeks old to around 18 weeks. Give your pet sufficient animal interaction throughout their lives. If you are visiting friends and family, try to go to dog-friendly places. Walk around the neighborhood.
6. Spay or Neuter Your Pet
There are several benefits to spaying or neutering your dog. It can minimize the chances of certain diseases and cancers. It may extend an animal’s life expectancy. In males, it can reduce aggressive behavior. In females, it can prevent them from going into heat, thereby eliminating unwanted behaviors, such as spraying urine and irritability.
Show Your Pet You Care by Keeping It Safe
Once your dog views you as her human, she will give you all of her love and support. She deserves for you to do the same. Keep your buddy safe by providing collars and IDs. Ensure that your home is free of safety hazards and keep toxic substances out of reach. If you follow the tips above, you will ensure that your furry friend will be happy, that they will be healthy, and that they will be by your side for years to come.
photo cred: pexels.com/…/person-touching-golden-retriever-1870301
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