When you get a dog, you are responsible for its health and safety. It is up to you to provide what it needs in order to stay healthy. However, you might not know exactly what your dog needs. While some mistakes are inevitable, you should avoid problems as much as possible. If you're unsure what you need to do in order to ensure your family dog stays healthy, here are some tips for you to follow.
Create a Feeding Schedule
Like humans, dogs can end up obese from overeating. And unfortunately, obesity can come with a number of health problems. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention is an organization that spreads awareness and researches pet obesity. They estimate that 56% of dogs and 60% of cats in the United States are overweight or obese. One way to either avoid obesity or help your dog lose extra weight is to create a feeding schedule. Make sure that your family knows when the dog is going to be fed and how much it will get. You need to stay consistent, though you can add occasional treats. If your dog gets used to this feeding schedule, it won't demand extra food and become overweight.
Take Your Dog to the Park
Dogs need a lot of exercise. While taking them for walks is a good way to do so, another great option is to bring them to the park. Depending on your park, you might be able to let them run around off the leash. This will provide them with fun and exercise. They might also be able to play with other dogs that they meet there. The park is a fun destination for dogs, where they can run around and explore new things. This will keep both their body and their mind healthy. So make park trips a regular part of your schedule.
Redesign Your Backyard for Maximum Exercise Space
If you have the space and the means, you can promote your dog's health by making your backyard as dog-friendly as possible. Move furniture and structures around in order to give them more space to run and play. The amount of space you can give them will depend on your yard, but many people will be able to do so. The percentage of houses with no outdoor additions dropped from 14% to 8%, which means more homeowners are adding outdoor space to their property. If your home is set up in this way, that outdoor space can be a very convenient place for your dog to play.
Ensure Your Dog Sees the Vet
Regular vet visits are an essential part of keeping your dog healthy. Even if your dog seems to be well, it needs regular exams in order to stay that way. The veterinarian will do a full examination and check for common problems. This is also an opportunity for you to address any concerns you might have about your dog's health. Regular trips to the vet will ensure that you can catch any problems before they grow. This will help avoid major health issues and keep your dog healthy.
Take Your Dog Swimming
Dogs love to go swimming! It is a fun, healthy activity that will keep them cool in the summer while also providing a lot of exercise. While your family swimming pool might not be an appropriate swimming environment for them, you can look for public beaches near you. Or you can take a road trip with your dog to go somewhere special to swim.
It is your job to keep your dog healthy. By applying these tips to your life, you'll be able to keep them in good shape, both mentally and physically. This will make its life longer and happier.
