subject: How to Care For Your Dog - 6 Tips For Doggie Maintenance [print this page] How to Care For Your Dog - 6 Tips For Doggie Maintenance
There are many elements that factor in to the proper care of your pet. For a healthy happy pet you must look beyond food and water. There is more to it than throwing down some water and kibble, and the more you care for the pet, the better your relationship can be. They will be in better shape and feel good and in return your happy pet will be appreciative and want to please you even more.
1/ Diet - yes, the obvious is proper food that had some form of protein listed as the first ingredient not a pile of fillers and chemicals. If your dog seems to be 'processing' it's food too quickly and not retaining or absorbing a lot this is also a sign that you may need to look at different diet options. Also, with respect to human food, lean cuts of protein are good for them, as well apples and carrots ( if you can get them to eat carrots!) Stay completely away from high fat items, like all the skin off the chicken or turkey, gravy's and anything that could have a bone in it. If you are not sure, then don't offer it to your pet!
2. Hydration - your dog needs water! If they are exercising or in a warm or hot climate they will need water to keep their body temperature down and stay hydrated, just like us! You need to give them access to clean water wherever they are.
3. Exercise - If your dog is fat, chances are you both could use a little more exercise. All breeds need regularly daily walks. Smaller breeds with their short little legs may get by on less, and high energy breeds like a terrier may need a whole lot more!
4. Vet Visits - a necessary evil just like out annual medical. Pets in a large percentage of North America need protection against heartworm in addition to their annual vaccinations. When you have had a dog that has contracted a disease and spend every day trying to nurse them back to health you can appreciate how preventative measures are so easy and don't put your dog through all that stress, and you too! Protection from disease as well as fleas, mosquito, worms and ticks are critical to your dog's health and so easy to address. Part of the Vet's checkups will also involve checking their teeth. Another area where disease can show up and care of their mouth is just as important.
5. Training - having your dog be well mannered and well behaved will make time with them more enjoyable. They will also know how they are expected to behave and will work to do what earns them the positive feedback, maybe even a little reward from you.
6. Grooming - If your dog will adjust to and accept getting their teeth brushed this could help with doggie breath and disease in the mouth. It's a tough one to get most to agree too. Brushing their hair will get rid of dead skin and loose hair making their coats healthier and shiny. Some long haired breeds need trimming and bathing more often to keep dirt out of their coats. If they do not walk on concrete or abrasive surfaces then nail clipping may be needed. When they grow too long they can become awkward for your pet.
Addressing these main tips will keep your dog healthy, fit, and looking fine!
