Ways to Increase your Dog’s Life Expectancy

As pet owners, we strive constantly to make our companions lives the best that they can be. We want them with us for as long as possible, because we love and cherish them. There are several easy steps we can take, to ensure their longevity and livelihood.

A Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is as important and beneficial to your canine companion as it is to you. This begins with feeding them the food that is formulated for their particular breed, as well as any extra or special dietary needs they may have. Some dogs are prone to eating and eating until they actually make themselves sick. Monitor your companion during meals to make sure this does not happen, and that they are not overeating in general. Keep in mind that obesity can significantly shorten their lifespan, just as it can ours.

Plenty Of Exercise

All creatures need plenty of exercise to live a long, healthy life. Vigorous extended physical activity aids in the burning of calories, as well as the building of muscles and helping to keep your dog in just all around good physical shape. The simple act of walking, a few minutes each day, can go a long way to keeping your dog fit and healthy.

Keep Their Teeth Healthy

Your dog's oral health is just as important as the other aspects of their health. It is important that your companion has at least a yearly dental exam to maintain proper oral care. There are toothbrushes on the market designed with pets in mind, or you could feed them treats that are engineered towards aiding in proper oral care.

Exercise Their Brains

Just like us, our companions need to have their intellect stimulated often. This could include something as simple as talking to them or playing a game of tug-o-war. Use their name during the interactions, with a loving and affectionate tone. Pet and make contact with them often, and in the end, you will receive plenty of butt wiggling in appreciation.

Follow Your Vets Instructions

It is essential that you do everything your vet recommends in regards to taking proper care of your companion. Make sure to schedule yearly check-ups and follow-ups when necessary. Keep all vaccinations up to date, and if you notice any changes in your pet, make sure to let the vet know. Keeping alert to small issues can go a long way to preventing major problems down the road.

Keep Harmful Items Out Of Reach

A pet can be just as curious, and mischevious as a toddler. That is why it is best to “dog” proof your house, just as you would with a human child. Keep any potentially harmful items in a cabinet, with a lock on it. This will assure that your dog will not at any time be able to open the cabinet and have access to the items. Keep all chemicals that you use to clean with out of their reach, and cleaned up. Dogs are naturally inquisitive, and as such, they may quickly ingest something that could make them very sick or even prove to be potentially harmful.

By simply keeping a few simple tips in mind, you can further ensure that your dog will lead a long and healthy life. And that is what is all that is important. We want our companions around a long time, and at that time happy and healthy. Like their owners, it is up to you to do all you can to achieve that goal.  

Cite this page