As a dog owner, you are responsible for keeping your dog healthy with routine medical care. This involves much more than just regular nutrition and exercise. Much of a dog’s care can depend on her age and general health. It can also be driven by your work or social schedule. Anyway, you should keep in mind the following to help
make sure your dog lives a happy, healthy and long life. So, in no particular order:
- Be aware– Dogs are actually great communicators, if you pay attention. This is true from “puppy” to old age. You will get to know their behavior at various times of the day. Changes in this may indicate a change in health. Watch for reduced energy, a dull coat, excessive weight gain or loss, unusual growths, restlessness/anxiety, or even loss of the usual sparkle in the eye. If you already have a dog, you will know what I mean. In all cases, seek the advice of your dog’s healthcare professional.
- Establish a daily routine– Dog love routine. It is through this routine that they come to understand his role in their family (read Pack). Create a series of morning, day and evening events that your dog will respect and look forward to, such as:
- Morning walks and light games.
- Feeding: Depending on your pet’s age and health status, daily feeding times and amounts vary. In all cases, make sure the feeds are won with a simple wait command for a short moment before allowing the feed to start. Some animal behaviorists argue that your pet should never be fed before you and your family, reinforcing the herding process in the wild.
- Times to go to the bathroom. Again, this will depend on the age and health of your pet. Generally, our experience is that a puppy will need an hour break for his monthly age. For example, a two-month-old puppy will need a break about every two hours; a three-month-old will require a break every three hours, and so on. Adult dogs will generally need about 2-3 breaks per day, depending on the time of year, food and water intake, etc.
- Evening Playtime – Your dog will want to play with you, especially if you have been away during the day. Establish a playtime/routine that conveys to your dog that this is a time to happily wait. Also, to help him understand that downtime is also required so that he can continue with his other duties or interests at home.
- Bedtime on time: Like humans, bedtime is preferred to a regular time at night. Have your pet be locked up or directed to his “lie down” space at about the same time each night. Make sure they’ve done their homework and haven’t been too excited before this time.
- dog pound– This is becoming the preferred way for your pet to be housed and housed in doors. Our experience has been that a dog, if properly presented with a kennel, will wholeheartedly accept it as a safe and comfortable place to occupy. Let his pet take care of the house, especially when a puppy or younger dog will make house training more difficult. The kennel represents a positive place for you to place your dog between eating and going to the bathroom from the start and also a place for an older dog to rest, sleep or just relax. The size of the cage is very important and depends on the size of your pet. Seek your seller’s advice before buying.
- Choose healthy, age-appropriate dog food– This is very important for your dog. The adage that we are what we eat also applies to your pet. Take the time to read the label on various bags of dog food at your place of purchase. You will be amazed at the ingredients found in the offerings. Price is also not an indicator of healthy food. Natural ingredients are obviously the best. The better the food intake, the better your dog will look, feel and act. This is very important people!
- Exercise your dog – Exercise yourself– Your pet will need exercise. It is true that some breeds require less exercise, but in general all dogs need a certain level of exercise. Beyond the physical benefits of the routine, don’t underestimate the psychological benefits as well. An unexercised dog will become frustrated, anxious, or even aggressive at times. In addition, every time you walk or play with your pet you are increasing the bond between you. This is emotionally beneficial for both of you. Ultimately, every step you take during this routine is another step toward good health for you. Vary the routine if you can. It will be more enjoyable and interesting for your dog.
- Toys must be age appropriate.– Toys that are not age appropriate can be dangerous for your dog. Certain types of rawhide bones could, after being chewed by a pup, lodge in the pup’s throat and be a major threat. Dogs at every age plateau have unique needs and abilities when it comes to toys. They can help stimulate, educate, structurally develop and amuse your pet. The use of toys is also important. It has been suggested, for example, that playing tug-of-war with your pup and letting him pull the toy on you may be sending him the wrong message. You may learn that you can beat or master that particular exercise. Consult with your veterinarian for advice in this area.
- Prevention saves money and lengthens life– Regular checkups with your vet are absolutely essential to your dog’s quality of life. Beyond the physical evaluation that will be performed, this is a good opportunity for the following:
- Update vaccinations and apply reinforcements if necessary
- Treatments for ticks, heartworms and fleas can be applied.
- Bloodworm testing and fecal evaluation may be done.
If there is a problem, it will most likely be quickly diagnosed, treated, and resolved, preventing unnecessary discomfort, trauma, or a more serious outcome in the future.
- Fixing is more than just looking good– Regular grooming is important on several levels. You want your dog to look good and this will do the trick. If you decide to do it yourself, it’s another opportunity to increase the bond you have with him. In addition, the groomer can spot any unusual skin ailments that your vet can bring to your attention and evaluate. Grooming your pet can be as much anticipated as a long-awaited massage for you. Most dogs will love the attention. This is also a time to cut nails. This is important for your dog’s health. Not trimming properly or too infrequently can injure your pet or affect his ability to run, walk, or remain stable on certain types of flooring. Regular trimming alleviates this.
Just a few ideas to help you keep your dog healthy with routine health care. It takes some work and attention, but the benefits to your dog are immense. This is your partner after all. Do all you can to provide him with a long, healthy and happy life.