We all want our dogs to live long, happy and healthy lives. Regular wellness checkups and making healthy lifestyle choices can improve your dog’s health and happiness and help him live longer.
1. Proper Nutrition
A nutrient-dense and balanced diet keeps your dog fit and healthy and can prevent many diseases. The phrase “you are what you eat” applies to dogs as well as to humans so choose high-quality food (preferably organic as non organic food often contains harmful toxins and GMOs) for your dog’s optimum health. Whole foods and high-quality protein sources are ideal. Fresh fruits and vegetables are natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for a well-functioning immune system. If you decide to home-cook your dog's food just make sure to cook it plainly, without onions, garlic or seasoning as these can be toxic for dogs.
2. Sufficient Exercise
It is important to exercise your dog on a daily basis. Physical activity burns calories directly and can provide a boost to the metabolic rate that lasts for several hours even after your dog has stopped to exercise. Regular exercise increases your dog’s vitality and keeps his muscles, bones and tendons strong and healthy. It also provides a measure of mental stimulation. Most people are incredibly busy with their daily lives but try to implement at least some quality time with your dog such as walking, playing, fetching and enjoying the outdoors on a daily basis. It can be very relaxing and therapeutic for humans as well.
3. Oral Health
Proper dental care is an often-overlooked but important aspect that determines your dog’s overall health. Just like for humans, regular dental cleanings and professional checkups should be part of the routine. A long-lasting chew can also help fight plaque and tartar build up, and most dogs are more than happy to comply. When you brush your dog’s teeth, it is very important that you purchase a special toothpaste that can be swallowed by dogs! Human toothpaste can be poisonous and deadly to dogs as it often contains Xylitol, a sugar alcohol that can cause liver failure in dogs. You should also make sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
4. Regular Brushing
Regardless of the length of a dog’s coat-short or long, thick or thin-regular brushing benefits your dog because it removes dirt and debris from the skin and coat while stimulating a healthier and shinier coat. It is also a great opportunity for you to do an overall health check of your dog’s body, making it more likely that you’ll notice signs of pests such as fleas or ticks or any abnormalities or unusual growths that may need the attention of a veterinary doctor. Brushing your dog can also be a great bonding time as it can be soothing and a great way to de-stress after a long day.
5. Ear Cleaning
Cleaning and caring for your dog’s ears should be part of the regular hygiene routine to prevent ear infections. Examining the outside of the ears also alerts you to the presence of fleas, wood ticks, or anything that seems unusual. Use a clean cotton ball or piece of gauze with a natural, non-toxic ear-cleaning solution. Gently wipe the inside surface of the ear, going down only as far as your finger easily fits. Never place anything too deeply or forcefully into your dog’s ear and don’t use cotton swabs as this could cause a painful injury or even complete hearing loss.
At Joulie Organics, we only use certified organic ingredients that are known to enhance your dog’s health from within. Plus, all of our treats are boosted with a unique blend of of 100% plant based prebiotics shown to support digestive and immune health. Learn more about our treats and how to improve your dog's health.
