As dog owners, we are lucky to know first-hand just how special the bond with a canine companion can be. Dogs aren’t just pets, they are part of the family. That’s what makes it so unbelievably hard when we have to say goodbye.
Genetics can play a role in dog health and lifespan, with the expected years varying between breeds. But as owners, we also have a role to play. There are a few ways we can help our dogs to live to a ripe old age, which means we get more time for walks, furry affection, and playtime! Who knows - maybe they might make your dog live to 20!
Here are 5 ways to keep that tail wagging for longer and help your dog live a long happy life.
1. Eat Less, Eat Better
We all know carrying a little extra around the middle isn’t good for us, but this is also true for our furry friends too. A healthy diet for our dogs is just as important as it is for us. While it can be tempting to shower our dogs with affection through treating - did you know those extra treats could be doing more harm than good?
A 14-year study of canine diet found that dogs on a lower calorie diet lived around 1.8 years longer than dogs allowed to eat more.
So keep in mind that your dog should be a lean, mean walking machine - ideally with visible ribs and an obvious waistline. Avoid too many high-calorie treats and consider a brand of balanced dog food that helps keep them fuller for longer.
If you are worried about your pup’s weight, always consult a veterinarian who can offer tailored advice on a balanced diet for dogs.
2. Moving On Up
Whilst your dog’s diet can be a big factor, exercise also plays a huge role in your dog’s overall health. As well as helping to keep the pounds off, daily exercise has a number of other benefits:
But it doesn’t have to be the same walk every day that keeps you both fit year after year. Find different forms of exercise that suit your dog’s interests and abilities, as well as yours.
Here are some great ways to spice up a canine workout:
2. Moving On Up
Whilst your dog’s diet can be a big factor, exercise also plays a huge role in your dog’s overall health. As well as helping to keep the pounds off, daily exercise has a number of other benefits:
But it doesn’t have to be the same walk every day that keeps you both fit year after year. Find different forms of exercise that suit your dog’s interests and abilities, as well as yours.
Here are some great ways to spice up a canine workout:
3. Workout Their Brain
As well as physical exercise, we all know how important it is to use our brains too. Here are a few ways to keep your dog’s mind razor-sharp:
4. Brush Those Teeth
Studies have found that tooth brushing can have a positive effect on dog health care and lifespan. This is because it can reduce the risk of nasty issues like gingivitis. Here are some top brushing tips:
5. Stay Aware
As our pooches get older, there are a few changes that are perfectly normal. They may be a little slower, less excitable, and less inclined to move. But it’s important to be aware of when things might require further attention, so they can be treated quickly.
Some signs to look out for:
5. Stay Aware
As our pooches get older, there are a few changes that are perfectly normal. They may be a little slower, less excitable, and less inclined to move. But it’s important to be aware of when things might require further attention, so they can be treated quickly.
Some signs to look out for:
With these 5 tips, you now know how to keep your dog healthy and help them live longer. It’s the least we can do for the furry friends who help us live long happy lives too. So let’s use every opportunity to show just how much we love them. Just maybe not with treats this time!