Most dogs today are born retired. Rather than working to round up sheep, they live in our homes where nothing is expected of them besides companionship. This might seem great for them, but without exercise, affection and the right kind of care, your dog can get overweight, bored and depressed.
Every dog owner wants the best for their dog, and that means ensuring they are always in good health. Read our guide on how to ensure your dog lives the healthiest and happiest life it possibly can.
Dental Care
Plaque and tartar build up can lead to serious health problems in dogs. Focus on preventable dental care by brushing your dog’s teeth, feeding them dental treats or using oral rinses. Don’t wait until you start noticing bad breath.
Diet
Proper nutrition is crucial for keeping your dog healthy. Your dog’s diet directly affects their skin, coat, energy, weight and gastrointestinal function. Choose a high-quality dog food made by a reputable company, or learn how to create healthy, well-balanced homemade food. Obesity in dogs is a very common problem which can often be reversed with proper diet and exercise. Always consult your vet if in doubt.
Exercise
Many owners underestimate the amount of energy their dogs have and as a result, how much exercise they need to stay healthy. Depression, destructive behaviour, separation anxiety and other behavioural problems often stem from an energy surplus.
Dogs on average need between an hour or two of exercise a day, but this varies according to breed, size and age. Over time, you can determine the ideal exercise regime for your dog. Take them out and throw a ball to see how long it takes to tire them out.
Grooming
Your dog may have different grooming needs depending on what breed they are. Long haired breeds require regular brushing and haircuts every week or two. An average short haired dog will benefit from a monthly bath, brushing and nail trim.
Veterinary Care
Expert veterinary care and advice is the foundation of your dog’s health. Find a local veterinarian you trust and visit them on a regular basis for advice about everything from diet and exercise to routine wellness examinations (which should be conducted twice a year). Enquire about vaccinations and whether you dog has any special needs or chronic health conditions.
If you have a puppy or a senior dog, you should see your vet more often for check-ups. Remember that because dogs age faster, subtle changes in their health can take place at a rapid pace. Routine visits allow you to monitor your dog’s health before any problems escalate.
Specialist Veterinary Services in Sydney
For a range of veterinary services for your dog, speak to our specialist vets at Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists today. Book an appointment from Monday to Friday 8:30am-6pm, or contact us for emergency and after-hours care. Call us on (02) 9197 5800, contact us online or learn more about our services.
