Tips for keeping your dog healthy

There are a number of things you should do on a regular basis to help keep your dog healthy and happy.

• Schedule regular vet visits — The most important thing you can do for the health of your pet is to schedule regular visits to your veterinarian. Bringing your dog to your vet for annual checkups keeps your dog's vaccinations up to date and lets your vet keep a close eye on your pet's health to identify any health concerns before they become a problem.
• Keep your dog on a healthy diet — Ensure that your dog's food is suited to its age, size, and lifestyle and that it contains the proper nutrient and protein levels. When in doubt, ask your vet for recommendations.
• Keep an eye on your dog's weight — Different breeds have different healthy levels of weight. For example, a healthy weight Greyhound will be thinner than a healthy weight Bulldog. Generally, however, when you feel your pet's bony areas (shoulders, ribs, or hips), you should be able to feel the bones quite distinctly with a slight amount of fat over them. When you look at your dog from above, you should be able to see a definite waist behind the ribs. Consult your vet for specific guidance and diet recommendations for your dog.
• Always make fresh, clean water available — It's extremely important to keep your dog drinking. It's the most important — and cheapest — nutrient. When you are refilling your pet's water bowl, pay attention to how much they've been drinking. Significantly more or less than usual could indicate a health problem.
• Ensure your dog gets enough exercise — Walking (or running) is ideal exercise for your dog. How far and how fast they can go will depend on their size, breed, and fitness level.
• Play with your dog everyday — Dogs are pack animals and need companionship to thrive.
• Don't neglect tooth care — Check your dog regularly for signs of plaque build-up and swollen gums. See your veterinarian on a routine basis for dental exams and, if necessary, a dental cleaning. Ask your vet about using a finger brush or dental treats between visits to help keep your dog's teeth clean.
• Protect your pet from common household dangers — Many things we have in our homes can pose real dangers to our pets. Some human foods, like chocolate, are toxic to dogs. Some household plants, like azaleas, lilies, mistletoe, and philodendron, are poisonous. Even seemingly innocent things like small toys or rubber bands are dangerous because they are easy to swallow and can cause intestinal blockages or strangulation. If you're not sure what you need to do to make your home safe, ask your vet for advice.
• Never give your dog medications without being directed to do so by your veterinarian — Many human medications like pain medications, cold medicine, and even some vitamins can be toxic and even fatal to dogs.