7 Easy Tips to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Live Longer
The life expectancy in dogs is between 10 and 15 years and some of them will live longer than that. When you get a new pup you will probably not be too worried about this but as it gets older, you should start thinking about the ways that will make them active and healthy for as long as possible.
Although generally speaking some breeds live longer than others, there are certain things you can do to possibly prolong their lifespan. It all goes down to the way you care for your pet. So, these are some of the steps you can take to ensure they stay healthy for as long as possible.
1. Keep an Eye On Your Dog’s Weight
Just like with humans, excessive weight will also seriously affect the dog’s health as well. Extra pounds come with increased risks of diabetes and arthritis, among other things. So, it’s important to keep a close eye on the weight they are gaining. It can be very difficult to deny your favorite animal snacks and treats but there are several things you can do to help your dog stay healthy.
Exercise is of key importance. Make sure you play with your dog every day. Those playing sessions are like them going to a gym and burning the calories. Also, avoid people's food as much as possible. And as we already mentioned, restrict the intake of treats you give them. Talk to your vet about the right food for your dog and how much of it they need on a daily level.
2. Add Supplements to Dog’s Diet
Supplements can be a great addition to the pet’s diet as they can help them in their overall health. As stated by the experts from paramountpethealth.com, supplements have many beneficial effects that can improve a dog's lifestyle and the way they function. Among the ingredients in these products, you will find things like glucosamine, Omega-3 fish oil, and numerous vitamins which improve mobility in major joints, support the eye, brain, heart, and coat health, among other things.
However, never add them without first discussing it with your vet. They will be able to recommend the ones that are tested and approved by veterinary science. Also, they will tell you the right dose you should use based on your pet’s general physical condition.
3. Don’t Forget About Their Teeth
When it comes to mouth hygiene, many dog owners forget to take care of their pet’s teeth. But this is a very important aspect of every dog’s life. After all, if their teeth are bad or they fall out, how will they need their food?! So, get your dog a toothbrush and paste and make sure you clean their mouth regularly. They don’t mind this action generally but you might have problems making them keep still and not eating the toothpaste. It’s important to start this practice while they are pups.
4. Grooming is Necessary
Not only is grooming necessary but you need to do it on a daily level. It will reduce the shedding but it will also ensure you notice any skin alterations. In certain cases, these can be small tumors, and catching them early will prevent a lot of pain and heartache for both you and your dog. Weekly examinations are definitely a way to ensure your pet is in top-notch condition.
5. Will Exercise Make Dogs Leave Longer?
As we already mentioned, regular exercise will keep their weight in check. That in itself will do a lot so they stay healthy. However, exercise is also good for mental health. A short walk a few times a day will serve as mental stimulation and that will prevent them from developing dog dementia at an old age.
6. Don’t Skip Vet Visits
Even though it might seem like your dog is fine and healthy, don’t delay vet visits. Animal doctors can spot early signs of some maybe serious illnesses that you might miss. So, regular checkups are really necessary as a preventive. Catching health issues in their early stages can be a difference between life and death.
7. Prevent Parasites
Both intestinal and external parasites can cause a lot of problems for your pet so ensure you are doing everything possible to prevent something like this from happening. This is something your vet can help you with. They will be able to develop a parasite prevention plan based on the region you’re living in.
We love our pets and we want them to stay in our lives for as long as possible. Taking these steps will ensure they live long and happy lives for many years to come.
