Our pets are only here for a short while in comparison to us humans, it’s important we give them the best life we can while they’re around. Here are some tips for giving your dog a long and happy life:
Feed him a healthy diet
Feed your pet a balanced high-quality diet and ensure you are feeding the correct amount. Commercially available dog foods are required to be balanced in vitamins, nutrients, and minerals needed for good canine health. Be careful with how many treats you feed your dog, and don’t let them get overweight, as this can cause problems.
Give him lots of exercise
Exercise is essential for all dogs. It helps keep them in shape but is really important for their mental health, too. Most dogs need somewhere between 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Your four-legged friend needs enough exercise that they’re slowed down by the time you stop (so it might vary depending on their breed and age).
Look after those teeth
Neglecting your dog’s dental hygiene can have a direct impact on his lifespan. Without proper doggie dental care, your senior dog may suffer painful diseases or even lose some teeth. Take preventative measures by brushing your dog’s teeth and giving him dog dental treats from day one. This way he’ll avoid discomfort later in life.
Regularly take him to the vets
In general, all dogs should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. These yearly appointments will ensure that nothing is missed, and any problems can be identified as soon as possible. If your dog is older or has any known problems, you may want to schedule more regular consultations.
Know your dog breed
Know the risk factors associated with your breed. Sometimes subtle signs of disease are more easily recognized when you know what to expect. For instance, boxers are notorious for mast cell tumors, so if you see a skin lump on your boxer, you should have it seen more urgently by a veterinarian than you might for less-susceptible breeds. We have a Jack Russell and know they’re prone to obesity, so it’s important we keep an eye on his weight.
Monitor his diet
Just like humans, your dog’s diet has a significant impact on his longevity. Read the labels on your dog’s food and look out for harmful ingredients like meat byproducts, high sugar content, and unnecessary additives. You may also want to consider how much you’re feeding your dog: research shows that dogs who eat less (approximately 25% smaller portions) live nearly two years longer.
Puppy-proof your home
Keep your dog safe from hidden dangers and accidents. Of course, unintended situations are always a risk for both our pets and us, but doing whatever we can to prevent such occurrences is key to giving your dog the best shot at the longest life possible. The trick is to not only know what things are dangerous to your dog but to also consider the world from your dog’s point of view to imagine how hazards might be encountered.
Shower him with love
Last but not least… Dogs might be in just a small part of our lives, but to them, we are their whole life. Shower your furry friend with lots of love and attention, and it’ll positively contribute to their overall wellbeing.