The secret to a vibrant, joyful life for our dogs lies in the little details that make the big difference. From the food they eat to the way we manage their exercise and safety, every choice we make impacts their well-being. Maintaining your dog’s health is a necessary endeavor that’s about more than just avoiding illness; it’s about enriching their lives while strengthening the bond you share. By focusing on preventative care through nutrition, exercise, and regular grooming, we can sidestep many common health issues that plague our canine friends and keep them out of the vet’s office. But don’t skip veterinary care altogether—annual vet visits are part of good care and can help avoid other visits later on.
Let’s dive into ten fundamental tips that pave the path to optimum health for your dog. These strategies are not just about keeping your dog out of the vet’s office; they’re about crafting a lifestyle that brings out the best in your dog, ensuring they lead a full and healthy life by your side.
10 Dog Health Tips for Happy Living
#1 – Feed High Quality Food
Your dog’s food directly relates to his health. Be sure you are feeding a high quality (no grocery store brands) food that is giving your dog everything he needs.
#2 – Titering & Vaccines
There is a lot of controversy around vaccines and titers right now. Just make sure you have talked to vet and done what it is necessary to prevent a costly vet visit later if your dog gets one of these preventable diseases.
#3 – Caring for Skin
Jamie Ippolito, owner and founder of Paw Naturals says “much like the way winter weather can lead to dry, chapped skin in people, it can wreak havoc on your pup,” says Ippolito. “Moisturize their paws and skin with Coconut Oil to prevent the itching and cracking brought on by cold weather-related dryness. When it comes time for grooming, try using a moisture-rich shampoo like Earthbath Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera Shampoo.”
#4 – Exercise
Of course, don’t forget Exercise! Ippolito reminds us that some breeds need more exercise than others, so be sure yours is getting enough to satisfy his energy level.
#5 – Watch Their Step
Something many of us do not think about: be aware of what your dog is walking on. Ippolito says, “Many lawns are treated with chemical-laden pesticides. The animal walks through it and licks his paws, ingesting the pesticide. It’s best to wipe their paws with a damp cloth after walks.”
#6 – Canine Conditioning
More than just exercise, these classes teach you how to work out your dog appropriately, so he doesn’t get injured doing any activity –from hiking to agility. It also helps you learn more about the way your dog moves, so you can catch any small problems early, before they become big vet bills.
#7 – Keep Them on Leash
Keeping your dog on leash is not only law, but it can keep him health and safe. Loose dogs can get lost, injured (hit by a car, attacked by another animal, etc).
#8 – Brushing Teeth
Dental health issues in dogs are very expensive. Help prevent them by brushing your dog’s teeth daily.
#9 – Keep Nails Short
It’s surprising how many people neglect their dog’s nails. Overgrown nails can get infected, break, and even dig into your dog’s paw pad, requiring surgery. Keep those nails trimmed and avoid the vet.
#10 – Dog Proof Your Home
Another one of the top vet bills are surgeries related to dogs eating things they shouldn’t: garbage, toys, wood, plastic, socks, you name it, it’s been swallowed. Keep your house doggy proofed to avoid a vet bill.
Keeping your dog healthy involves a mix of regular care routines, vigilance, and a lot of love. By following these tips, you’ll not only reduce the need for frequent vet visits but also enhance the well-being and happiness of your canine companion.
