How to Keep Your Dog in Optimum Health

Welcoming a pet dog into your home and making them a part of your family can have a significant, positive impact on your daily life. Owning a dog can enhance your life in so many ways. Having someone that is always pleased to see you is one of the best parts of owning a dog.

Your pet will become your constant companion for long walks and chilling at home. A dog can certainly bring lots of joy into your life.

It is widely believed that dogs can not only benefit their owners’ well-being but can also improve their health.

As a companion, dogs help to alleviate feelings of loneliness. It is also believed that owning a dog can ease stress, anxiety, and even depression. 

If you have a pet dog, you will already know how much dogs offer their humans. But have you ever wondered how you can help your dog feel at their best?

When your dog brings you so much joy, it only seems fair that you ensure their well-being is protected and they are in optimum health.

Here’s how you can take the best care of your dog’s health and well-being:

Protect Your Dog’s Mental Wellness

While many people focus on their pet’s physical health, it is also crucial to consider your dog’s mental wellness.

Did you know dogs can become depressed?

While your dog may not be able to tell you they are depressed, they can experience a low mood. So, being aware of this is essential to prevent this situation from arising. 

Once you have lived with your pet dog for several months, you will have a really clear idea about their likes and dislikes.

At this point, you will also be able to spot more subtle nuances in their mood that indicate they aren’t feeling at their best.

As a dog owner, being able to spot your dog’s mood and how they are feeling is essential.

Sometimes dogs may act out of character because they are experiencing pain, or maybe they are going through hormonal changes.

Building your awareness of your dog’s emotions is a great way to keep them feeling happy and content.

A common issue that many dogs experience is separation anxiety.

Lots of dogs dislike being left at home while their owners are at work or out for the day.

If your dog is impacted by separation anxiety, you may want to consider using a pet sitting service so that they are cared for and have company while you are out.

Knowing that your pet is being well looked after will put your mind at ease too. 

Ensure Your Pet Receives the Best Nutrition

Receiving the right nutrition is essential to ensure your dog lives a long and fulfilling life.

But with so many different types of dog food available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.

Selecting a dog food based on your pet’s size, breed, and any specific dietary requirements is a great place to start.

You may want to carry out research to compare different dog food brands and their respective nutritional content.

It can also be helpful to ask your veterinarian for their dog food recommendations next time you take your pet for a health checkup.

Know Your Dog’s Exercise Requirements

Exercise is something all dogs need, but do you know how much activity your dog should receive each day?

Many people simply believe that the more activity their dog receives, the better. But this is not always true.

There are many factors that determine how much physical activity your dog needs each day. 

Your dog’s breed is one of the most crucial factors to consider before you make a daily walking routine for your pup.

Smaller dogs generally require less exercise than larger dogs. However, you also need to consider any common conditions that the breed may experience.

For example, some dogs are prone to joint pain. So it may be best to avoid steep inclines and to mainly walk them on a grass surface, to ease the pressure on their joints. 

Another factor to consider is the temperature.

If it is hot outside or the temperatures are freezing, you need to consider whether it is safe for your dog to venture outside for exercise.

Being overheated can kill a dog, and freezing temperatures can cause frostbite on your pet’s paws.

Being aware of these considerations will help you find the perfect exercise level and the right conditions for exercising your pet dog.