How to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

It’s natural for any dog owner to want to take every step available to keep their furry friend at their full health. Here, we’ve outlined some of the most important aspects of owning a dog that you need to consider to ensure your dog lives a long, happy life.

Be Aware of the Costs

Owning a pet can be expensive business. Yet many owners underestimate the true cost of common medical conditions and treatments for dogs. 18% of owners stated that their pet needs regular medication costing on average £1,310 per year. But keeping your dog healthy is more than just saving on vets’ bills. After all, a healthy dog is a happy dog. And as a devoted dog owner, you’ll want to keep your canine pal as healthy and happy as possible.

Protect Your Dog against Pests

When you have a dog, it’s important to protect them from the health risks caused by pests. Ticks, fleas and worms can make your pets very ill, and can lead to serious infestations in your home. Your vet is the best person to ask about routine preventative treatments to prevent and control these pests. But there are some steps you can take to help protect your dog. After they’ve been outside, give them a thorough inspection and brush their coat to remove any insects or debris. You can also wash your dog using a special shampoo that is designed to kill pests. Make sure to keep an eye out for any skin irritations they may have like itchy, sore-looking skin or bite marks. Extreme scratching is often a sign that they have skin irritation. 

Give Your Dog the Best Nutrition

With the huge selection of dog food brands now on the market, owners are spoilt for choice. That’s why it is so important to really know what your dog needs and what is in the food you are giving them. Giving your dog the best nutrition is essential for their health. Like us hoomans, dogs need a variety of different nutrients to give them the goodness and energy they need to stay fit and healthy. Water, protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals should be foundations of any healthy dog’s diet.

Be Prepared for any illness

A huge part of keeping your dog healthy is to protect them from common illnesses and diseases. Be sure to take them to the vet regularly for check-ups and of course, getting them vaccinated. Also, it’s always useful of signs of illness in your dog. These can include vomiting, diarrhoea, scratching and skin soreness, and limping. If you see any of this kind of activity form your dog, make sure you take them to the vet as soon as possible. Some vets also include discounts on treatments and appointments, which will help with the overall cost.