Tips to Make Your Dog Healthy and Happy

There’s nothing quite like a happy dog strutting along with a wagging tail. A bouncing step on a casual walk brings its own kind of joy, whether your furry friend is a zippy young pup or a mellow old-timer. Keeping your dog in shape and smiling is a neat way to give back some of that endless, unconditional love.

Get those paws moving

Dogs just love to be on the move. 

They need regular physical activity, when their health allows, both for their general body but also also for keeping their mind sharp. 

Your pup would love nothing more than a game of tug of war in the garden or playing hide-and-seek indoors when the weather’s bad. This is true even for senior dogs as long as you adjust the activity level accordingly.

Feed them right from the start

You are what you eat, and the statement applies to your dog, too. So, they need quality food at every stage of their life to maintain their health.  

Not all dog food is the same, depending on: 

• dog’s breed
• dog’s size
• life stage

A word of advice on sharing table food with your dog:

• Dogs don’t have the same nutritional needs as you.
• Some human food is toxic to dogs (especially anything dangerous like chocolate, onions, or grapes).

If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to have a quick chat with your vet. Treats are fine as a special nod, but opt for dog-friendly ones (or even specially made for dogs).

Grooming

Every dog needs grooming: 

Brushing and bathing prevent shedding and matting

Grooming helps spot health risks: ticks, skin issues, lumps, etc. 

You don’t need to overdo it. Your dog’s breed and lifestyle should dictate how often they need bathing and grooming. Don’t forget the nails; if they get too long, even a simple walk can become uncomfortable.

Make time for vet visits

Your dog needs routine health check-ups. 

As a rule of thumb, once a year is enough for healthy dogs. Also, ensure your dog gets all the necessary shots, plus regular flea and worm preventions.

If you ever notice changes—maybe they’re not eating as much or seem off—scheduling a quick vet appointment can save a lot of worry later on.

Keep their mind buzzing

Mental exercise matters just as much as physical play. Dogs are curious creatures and enjoy a good challenge now and then. 

Try tossing in a puzzle toy, engaging in a scent game, or simply running through some basic training drills.