A healthy dog is a happy one so make sure you’re fulfilling all the following requirements to keep your pooch in perfect condition:

Find a good vet

Having a high-quality vet on hand will set a firm foundation for your dog’s future and health. Ideally find a vet you trust and can reach regularly. Every dog should receive some kind of overall health check-up twice a year. If you have a puppy, an older dog or a pet with long-term health problems, check-ups will need to be more regular than this. Remember that dogs age faster than humans so changes can happen quickly in a 12-month period, so regular check-ups are crucial to monitor any possible changes before they escalate.

Exercise

A happy, healthy dog needs a good exercise routine. Many owners underestimate the amount of exercise their pet needs to keep them in optimum condition. If you notice behaviour problems, shredded furniture or separation anxiety, it could be exacerbated by a build-up of excess energy. The amount of exercise will vary depending on breed, size and age but a medium-sized dog could need between 1-2 hours a day. Establishing a routine and sticking to it will provide excellent health-giving benefits to your dog.

Food

Proper nutrition is essential for all dogs to maintain their health. Their diet affects many things including how shiny their coat is, their weight and how much energy they have. You should always choose a high-quality food, find out about homemade diets and limit the amount of grains in their diet. Keeping an eye on your dog’s coat, energy levels and weight over a month or so should give you an indication of whether a certain type of food is working for them or not. Obesity is an increasing problem in our pets, so good nutrition and plenty of exercise is recommended.

Grooming

Grooming is not just for the pedigree poodles and all dogs need to be kept clean and looked after. Brushing is important to prevent mats of fur occurring, nails need trimming, long haired dogs need haircuts and bathing should take place at least once a month. Keep your dog’s skin moisturised without stripping their fur of natural oils by using natural products which aren’t too harsh. Living with Itchy Dogs is no fun for anyone so check out the products available at http://www.stinky-stuff.co.uk/product-cat/dog-remedies/

Teeth

We often overlook dental care in our pets until we get a full blast of the dreaded ‘dog breath’. Over time, the build-up of tartar and plaque can lead to big problems for your dog. Dental disease is painful, so it pays to start a preventative regime from the start. It causes inflammation of the gums and can affect the entire mouth. If left, it can cause tooth loss, pain, other dental complications and other health issues. Dental treats are available, as are oral rinses and toothpaste designed for dogs. You may need a professional clean if the problem is already established.