How to Help Your Family Dog Live a Fuller & Happier Life

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Not everyone sees dogs as just animals. For many people, their dogs are members of their families. Taking care of your pup gives you many years to enjoy each other. You already know the basics of pet care like making sure they eat right and get enough exercise. Some breeds require more exercise than others and can gain a lot of excess weight when they spend more time cooped up inside. Other breeds are easier to train than others and take to basic commands quickly. No matter what type of breed your dog is, you can help your family pet live a fuller and happier life by implementing the following tips for your favorite four-legged creature.

Choose the Right Food

Did you know that many pet food brands use filler ingredients? You might see chicken or meat byproducts listed on the bag. The best dog food uses real meat as the first ingredient and does not include wheat or corn, which can cause your dog to pack on the pounds. Cheap foods can lead to dehydration and shorten your pup's life. There are plenty of healthy and yummy dry kibbles and wet or canned foods that your dog will love. You might also try a raw diet or cook healthy dishes for your dog.

Focus on Their Health

 As dogs age, they become susceptible to conditions like arthritis that makes it hard for them to work or play. Using the right back support for dogs will help your pup be able to play more and experience less pain. You can also look into supplements for dogs to help with any symptoms you notice. This will help your pup live a fuller and happier life because they will be more comfortable. They will experience less amount of pain and more ability to play.

Get Out of the House

Even if you have a pup that likes curling up on the couch and laying on the floor, you need to get them outside a few times a day. The more exercise your pup gets, the more time you'll have together. Look for fun ways to spend time together. Don't just open the door and let them roam around your backyard for a few minutes to find the right spot to use the bathroom. Try hitting the hiking trail together or going for a long walk around your neighborhood.

Bond with Your Pup

The bond between humans and dogs is so strong that it leads to the phrase a dog is a man's best friend. You do not need to look for unique or special ways to bond with your pup. Things as simple as taking your dog for rides can help. Not only do you get to spend some time together, but it helps your dog realize that they don't need to go to the vet every time they get in the car. You can also take your dog to the pet store to pick out a new toy and look for other ways to spend time together.

Visit the Vet

Dogs benefit from yearly checkups with a licensed vet. The vet makes sure that your dog gets any needed vaccinations and will also look for signs of common diseases and health conditions. They can also run tests to make sure your dog is healthy and recommend any meds or supplies your pet might need.

Take Care of Their Teeth

Dogs are prone to dental conditions, which is why taking care of their teeth is so important. Dental conditions can affect other parts of the body and make it hard for your pup to eat dry food. You can look for hard treats and chew toys that remove plaque and strengthen their teeth. Healthy treats like raw baby carrots also help. Pet stores sell tooth cleaning kits that include a brush and paste that you use together on your dog's teeth. You usually want to brush their teeth a few times a week or as often as once a day.

Live a Long and Happy Life

Living a long and happy life with your dog is as easy as knowing what to do and how to treat them. Make sure that you help your pup avoid stress and stay comfy with a bed designed just for them. If your pup doesn't like certain people, feel free to let them hang out in a different room away from those people. When you treat your dog with the same love and kindness that they give to you, you can help them live a happier and fuller life.