The Definitive Guide to Caring for Your Dog

Snoopy McLoughlin, 4 years old

Every pet owner will want to spend as many years as possible with their dog. That’s why it is essential to actively care for their health, which can improve a pet’s personal happiness and may increase their lifespan. Find out how to effectively care for your dog.

Keep Fresh Water Readily Available

It is vital to provide your canine companion with fresh water, which should be readily available within the home or when enjoying a walk outdoors. This will help to avoid dehydration, so your dog will have a healthy, energetic body.

A Nutritional Diet

Sadly, many pet owners are guilty of overfeeding their dogs, which can cause obesity. Overweight dogs are therefore more likely to experience a range of life-threatening medical conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes. Ensure your pet pooch maintains a healthy weight by discussing your dog’s dietary requirements, which will be based on their age, breed, size and activity levels. Hill's Science Diet dog food has been a trusted name for many years and is a food recommended by many vets.

A Flea Treatment

Fleas can often provide much discomfort to your dog. To ensure your pet is pest-free, we recommend investing in the best flea treatment for dogs on the market, so they will not be troubled by the annoying bugs that can ruin their quality of life. Invest in a product that will not only treat your dog, but your home and outdoor area, too.

Regular Veterinarian Examinations

We recommend having your dog regularly examined by a veterinarian, who can provide deworming help, vaccinations and health advice to put into practice within the home. Also, always ensure you contact a vet if you believe your dog is ill or injured. The vet will work with you to ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life.

Daily Exercise

It’s essential that a canine enjoys between 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise each day. A vet can often advise a pet owner on the physical activity level for a dog’s age, breed and size. Daily walks will also allow your pet to maintain or lose weight, so they will be happier, more energetic and less susceptible to serious medical conditions.

Reproductive Control

If you do not want your pet to have puppies, you should consider the options of spraying or neutering your pet. Again, we suggest discussing the reproductive control options with your veterinarian, as well as any other alternative options that might be available.

Dental Hygiene

Many dog breeds are prone to gum disease, which can cause considerable health complications for your pet. For example, they may experience premature tooth loss, or it could potentially result in an infection to a major organ, such as a heart valve. Provide your dog with teeth cleaning foods that will improve his or her oral hygiene.

Dog Grooming

Even dogs need a little pampering now and then, as they may need grooming or nail trimming. For example, long-coated canines are likely to develop mats or ice balls in their fur. Elderly dogs are also more likely to have overgrown nails that can make walking difficult for your pet.