A dog is, as they say, man’s best friend. As your best friend, you should want to keep your pet in good and healthy condition at all times. There are a few ways to keep your dog healthy. Some of these paths to having a healthy dog are common sense and some require a little research and energy on your part.
A Healthy Diet
Just as a person needs a healthy diet in order to thrive, so does a dog. You are what you eat and so is your dog. Think healthy food for your dog, though it may cost a bit more. You would not feed your family scraps of garbage, so do not give your dog the cheapest, lowest-grade dog food. A high-quality, healthy dog food will keep him at top form in both weight and heart health. His stools will be less odorous, his breath will smell sweeter, his coat will shine and he will live longer given the correct diet. Some people are advocating a raw food diet for dogs which you may want to look into. It is said to be the healthiest and most natural way to feed your dog.
Weight
An obese dog will not be as healthy as a trim one. Do not overfeed your dog or give him unlimited treats. A healthy dog will be the right weight for his size.
Veterinarian Care
Before you choose a veterinarian for your dog, do a little research. Ask other people you know who have healthy dog which vet they use and trust. Once you have found the right vet, regular veterinary care is a very important aspect of your dog’s health. Be sure you get your dog his necessary vaccines, de-worming and flea/tick prevention. Getting your dog spayed or neutered is a good health prevention technique also. Take your dog in for a yearly physical even if nothing appears to be wrong.
Exercise
Every dog needs exercise. Moving about will keep him happy and healthy. Without enough exercise (and too much food) your dog can become obese which will lead to other health problems. Running around a yard, playing fetch or frisbee with your dog will keep your healthy also.
Supervision
Would you leave your small child along to play outside without supervision? Your dog should not be left on his own to roam the neighborhood. He runs the risk of being struck by a car, attacked by other dogs or wildlife, or catching disease. For your dog’s health, walk him on a leash and supervise him when outside.
Love and Care
Don’t underestimate the importance of love in dog health. A loved dog is a healthy and well-cared-for one.