Tips for Keeping Your Dog Healthy

Humans aren’t the only ones who can benefit from increased healthy living in 2021. While you may have your own list of resolutions, such as drinking more water, exercising or adding a few more greens to your diet, consider adding some for your favorite pet as well. Here are some of our top tips for keeping your dog healthy in the new year – and every year.

TIP #1 – Make Daily Exercise a Priority

Our first tip for keeping your dog healthy is one most already know: exercise daily. Like people, dogs need movement in order to maintain a healthy weight. Did you know certain dog breeds are more prone to weight gain than others? Certain Terriers, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels and even Labrador Retrievers are all more likely to become overweight/obese. Regular exercise also helps with mobility and joint health as your dog gets older.

The amount of exercise recommended for your dog depends on factors such as age, energy-level, size and breed. However, most veterinarians recommend anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours of exercise each day for healthy pups. While that may sound intimidating, know there are several options that your dog (and even you) can benefit from. These include activities like:

• Walking
• Hiking
• Swimming
• Fetch
• Tug
• Agility and/or other training such as obedience

 

TIP #2 – Schedule Regular Visits with your Veterinarian

Just like people should avoid skipping appointments with their doctors, the same can be said for pets. Schedule regular visits with your veterinarian to keep your dog healthy year-round.

The frequency at which you take your dog to the vet will depend on age and whether they have pre-existing conditions. But ultimately, most pups should visit the vet at least once a year for a general checkup. Along with checking your dog’s heart, lungs, eyes, ears, and coat, annual visits are a great way to stay up-to-date on vaccinations and obtain healthy recommendations from your vet.

TIP #3 – A Social Dog is a Healthy Dog

Dogs need social interaction too! That’s why this next tip for how to keep your dog healthy involves getting them out in the world. Much like humans, our furry friends may also benefit from social situations with others. These interactions are not limited to just other dogs either.

Exposing your pup to people and other external stimuli helps teach them to interact and react to the world in a healthy way. Additionally, regular socialization can help minimize fearful or aggressive behaviors.

TIP #4 – Maintain Proper Grooming Habits

Another tip for keeping your dog healthy involves regular grooming. While often overlooked, proper grooming involves more than just brushing and baths. Along with their coat, dogs also need help cleaning and maintaining areas such as their:

• Ears
• Eyes
• Teeth
• Nails

Left unchecked, these areas can be breeding grounds for a number of health problems such as infections or even pain. There are several aspects of grooming that can be done at home, however, if you ever feel uncomfortable, schedule an appointment with a local groomer.

TIP #5 – Keep Your Dog Healthy With Proper Nutrition

Our final tip for keeping your dog healthy is to maintain a proper diet. Along with feeding your dog the right amount of food, it’s also important to make sure they are getting the nutrients they need. You should also avoid giving your pet table food unless you are absolutely sure that it is good for them.

When it comes to dog food, however, not all brands are the same. Different brands not only contain different ingredients, but they also carry different caloric contents and nutritional values – all of which should be taken into consideration when buying dog food.

Hi-Standard has nine recipes and blends of high quality, nutritious dog food at an affordable price. Our food contains wholesome fresh ingredients, including glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy hips and joints. Keep your dog healthy and happy with help from your friends at Hi-Standard.

Always consult with your veterinarian for specific guidelines when it comes to your dog’s health.