Happy, Healthy Dog Tips

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Habits you begin with your fur baby, both good and bad, will have an impact on their overall health and well being. Start good habits early and be consistent and your fur baby will have a happy, healthy life.

Exercise Daily
Studies show that regular exercise is good for our pets and ourselves. You don’t have to go to overboard on this. Just 2 walks per day can improve their fitness and keep them healthy and entertained. This will also help you to feel and look better. Daily play (tug of war, throwing a ball, or hide and seek) all help keep your pup entertained and mentally stimulated.

The Treat Jar
You should only give your dog a treat when they do a good job, they finally master a task you are training them to do, or because it is their birthday. This is why they are called treats. Too many treats will make your fur baby get overweight and this will lead to other health issues.


Mind Benders
Dogs need to do things that will stimulate their minds also. Things like interactions with other dogs, food puzzles, and play time are a few ways to keep dogs mentally fit. Dogs love the challenge and it will keep them busy.

Annual Veterinary Visit
A routine physical examination can help detect some small problems before they become large ones. you should schedule an appointment with your veterinarian once a year for your dog’s wellness check. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Check for Lumps and Bumps
Check your dogs overall appearance at least once a month. Feel for any lumps, bumps, or anything odd or out of place. Notify your veterinarian if you feel or see anything. They will check it out and put your mind at ease. Early detection can be the best way to prevent cancer.

Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
If your dog is anything like ours, brushing their teeth is like a chore. Not easy to do at all. If you brush their teeth a little at a time, giving them a small break in between, it will make it easier. It also helps if you make it seem like a game to them. Brushing teeth and good oral hygiene will help to improve their health and happiness and help to avoid many health issues. It will also make for better smelling breath.

Clip Toenails
You need to keep your dogs nails trimmed to avoid injury to their feet. I use a small tool that is fairly silent. My dog allows me to clip her nails now. I do a paw and then give her a break. She is a small dog and has black nails so it is difficult to ensure that they don’t get too short. Just a little at a time and smooth them off so there are no rough edges. Your fur baby will thank you in the end.


Lots of Hugs and belly rubs
Some Dogs enjoy getting hugs and giving them in return. Some prefer belly rubs. No matter what, your fur baby enjoys knowing that you love them. Show them the affection they deserve for being the sweet angels that they are.