Dogs are loyal friends and companions that provide unconditional love and protection. With a healthy lifestyle, your dog could be with you and your family for a happy 10-13 years. Your dog depends on you to provide both the basics in life, as well as the love and attention he needs.
Here are a few ways you can provide the lifestyle and environment to raise a happy and healthy dog.
Feed your dog a high-quality food and make sure that you are providing the right meal portions – giving him enough without overfeeding. Bring your dog to the veterinarian for regular health checks and make sure he receives periodic shampoos and routine brushing and nail clipping. Always be alert for signs of illness.
Most dogs do not get enough exercise. As a result, their health becomes problematic. Find out what you and your dog like best – jogging, walking, hiking – and get moving!
Dogs crave mental stimulation. Toys, bones and chewies can keep them busy and reduce destructive and attention-seeking behaviors. Playing with toys helps dogs release energy while also aiding healthy tooth care.
Bonding with your dog is a significant part of training, and it will help you maintain good habits and behaviors. Your dog needs and will respond to the positive reinforcement, so give him lots of love and reward good behaviors. However, be careful not to spoil him because positive reinforcement is one of your most powerful training tools.
Your dog is a social animal so let him interact with other dogs and humans. Socialization is good for development, and it’s just plain fun.
Dogs need mental stimulation, so integrate active obedience, commands, and training into everyday life.
Dogs want to understand boundaries and expectations so provide consistent structure and response toward desirable versus undesirable behaviors.