Dogs are human best friends. They are loyal, loving, and playful animals that put smiles on people’s faces with the simplest pleasures they bring about. Also, they are strong creatures that need care and attention to keep a happy and healthy life for years. Their dietary, medical, and living needs must be met for them to live long lives. Sometimes, if you are a first-time pet owner, it can be challenging to give all of the attention that they need. This article will present to you the six basic things that dogs need to be healthy and give a few tips on what you must do to give your dogs all the care and attention they deserve.
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1. Feed your pup with healthy food
When it comes to buying or making food for your dog, always make sure that you are using safe, natural ingredients. Dogs need balanced nutrition so that they can grow big and strong in size. Today, we have a lot of dog food brands in the market, and all of them claim that they have the best ingredients to ensure your pet’s well-being. It is very important to read contents labels on the food you buy for them. On the other hand, if you prepare your own food for your dog, make sure that the ingredients you are using are safe and healthy. People often use leftovers to feed their dogs and although it can be fine, always remember that a dog’s digestive system works differently from ours. Always ask a vet if the ingredients you are about to use in meal preparation are okay for your dog. “Some food that is healthy for dogs include bones, beef, organ meat (liver, pancreas), fish, and eggs”, says an expert from paramountpethealth.com. The best idea is to combine several healthy ingredients and cook them as a meal for your pets rather than just serving them one ingredient in their bowl.
2. Supply your pooch with clean water at all times
Clean water is a must for healthy living. Ensure that you supply your dog with clean water that is fresh and rich in nutrients every day. When we say ‘water’, it doesn’t mean just freshwater. You can give your dogs small amounts of saltwater, especially on summer days and when they are playing outside, to keep them well-hydrated. Also, you can add some de-chlorinated purified drinking water in their bowl once a week and let them drink it to improve the taste of the regular filtered water that you are giving them. It is important to change their water every day because we don’t know how many times they have licked it and made it contaminated. Thus, fresh, clean, and healthy water is essential to make sure that your dog’s body stays healthy from within.
3. Keep your pup’s coat clean and shiny
Your dog’s fur needs to be brushed and combed regularly, especially if his hair gets really long. This will remove any dirt or pollutants that might have stuck on their coats while they were playing outside in the yard or neighborhood park. If you think your dog needs a bath, then give him one. However, always remember to use a safe dog shampoo that has been approved by the FDA and is allergy-tested.
4. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise
Dogs need physical exercise to stay healthy from within and keep them physically fit. In today’s busy lifestyle, most of us tend to leave our dogs at home when we go out for work or play. If this is the case, then bring your dog to the backyard for some playtime. You can also take them on a walk or a run and make sure that they have enough exercise every day. If you are not an active person and your pup has been used to inactivity, start slow because even short walks will require your dog’s body to get used to activity again.
If it’s raining outside, there are some great indoor activities you can do with your dog. You can play games like hide and seek or fetch. These kinds of activities will offer your canine friend a good workout. Also, you can make an indoor obstacle course in your living room that will give him some physical activity and help his body get toned up. These mental and physical activities will always keep your dog active and healthy.
5. Love your pet unconditionally
Your dog might not be human, but he can definitely feel emotions like sadness, happiness, and more. It is important to understand how your pet feels and make them feel loved and wanted. If you are very busy or not at home a lot of the time, then find someone who can take care of your pup while you’re away. Not only does this help him stay socialized and happy, but it also helps strengthen his bond with another person. This way, he won’t feel lonely and always think about you.
6. Make a habit of visiting the vet
It is always better to prevent than cure. In this case, it means that it will be best for your dog if you bring him in for regular checkups and vaccinations with your local veterinarian. This way, you can monitor their health and tell early on when something might be wrong with your pet. We all know that prevention is better than cure when it comes to our dog’s health, so make sure that they get their recommended vaccines and veterinary checkups once a year at the minimum.
And that’s it! You are now armed with some basic knowledge on how to keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years. Good and balanced nutrition, enough freshwater, regular exercise, a clean fur coat, unconditional love, and attention are all basic things that your dog needs to feel healthy from within. Make sure to follow these tips. Also, always treat your pup like this so he can live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Your dog will pay you back for the unconditional love they give with lots of cuddles and happy memories.
