Doggie Health and Wellbeing

Dogs thrive on routine and their bodies to too. Sadly dogs can get the very same afflictions that humans do as they age and mature. Joints, muscles, dental hygiene, eye sight and hearing can all suffer from poor care. Certainly obesity, diabetes and cancers can and are found in dogs on a regular basis. As a dog owner, the health and expense of caring for your pet should always be top in your list of needs. Here are a few basics to get you started on the road to a happy healthy dog.

Veterinary Care -

Even before you actually bring your dog home for the first time, you should locate and make an appointment with a veterinarian. Once you have your dog have them examined, if the dog is not going to be for breeding arrange for a spay or neuter procedure, update any immunizations and talk about any special needs the animal may a lready have or may develop down the road.

The following list is a general outline of the suggestions that most vets recommend for ensuring your dog's health. Remember that some breeds may have additional needs that are health-related, so be sure to research your breed and be aware of any conditions or dog health risks that may be prevalent within the breed.

Exercise :

Should consist of at least one daily walk, or some kind of 20 minute activity to be beneficial. Larger dogs will have a need to do things that are natural to their class. Hunting dogs will love playing hide and seek games, sporty dogs will love to run and jump to catch balls and Frisbees. Dogs that love water will enjoy time on the beach or swimming in lakes. Smaller dogs will most likely enjoy a romp around the back yard or dog park. Most of all be encouraging and be positive. Having an active dogs is also a great way to help keep your own self healthy and alive.

Diet :

A good quality dry kibble type food is best for most dogs. Read the labels as you would for your own food. If the first ingredients are real meat, grains( but avoid corn based foods) and even some vegetables then it is probably a good choice.

Wet foods should be given only seldomly, and mix it in with some dry food if you can. The wet canned stuff tends to be full of fat and generally not as nutritious. Follow strict guidelines as to how much food your pet needs, it will depend on your dogs weight, size and activity level. More active dogs can have slightly more calories but still should be kept within reasonable limits.

Avoid feeding human food and too many treats. Human food or treats should be less than 5% of the daily food intake of your dog. Many vets and dog health experts recommend no human food and only select dog treats. The following are harmful and possibly fatal to dogs and should not ever be given as meals or treats:

• Chocolate
• raisins
• raw poultry, pork or fish
• any kind of raw or cooked poultry bones, they are very brittle and deadly if caught in the wind pipe or digestive tract
• coffee
• mushrooms
• onions and garlic

Attention to Detail

You can usually tell right away if you dog is not feeling their best. Appetites may change, lack of interest in things they normally love, maybe they are limping or walking with their legs stiff… licking and whimpering are obvious signs of distress. Know your dog and call your vet if you feel anything is out of the ordinary.

You may also want to consider knowing how to provide first aid to your dog. Many cities offer classes on treating paw wounds, insect stings, skunk sprays and how to apply a safety muzzle for dogs that are injured and may become aggressive.

Above all else, the number one need for your dog is good old love and tender care.

When you feel those for your pet the rest will be a no brainer. Cuddles, play time and quiet time all part of a wonderful happy dogs day.