Dog Health Care

The basics of dog health care are pretty similar to human health care!

• A safe place to live

Having a young dog in the house is similar to having a young child in the house! Puppies and dogs love to explore, so make sure any 'dangerous' areas or objects are secure eg the stairs, the cupboard with the bleach in it, the sharp knife is put away.

A young puppy will need to be kept in a warm and cosy place too; they often find it comforting to sleep on a (warm) hot water bottle - it will remind them of sleeping snuggled up next to their mother and litter mates.

Lots of love and affection and play will keep your dog mentally stimulated and healthy too.

• A Healthy Diet

Your dog requires a balanced diet to stay healthy. Research the diet required for the size and breed of your dog. Avoid over-feeding, dog obesity is a growing problem and causes many knock-on health problems eg arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Dog vitamins and supplements are also available to keep your dog in tip top health.

• Plenty of Exercise

All dogs love going for a walk! Some dogs, particularly the larger breeds, require alot of exercise, where as the smaller breeds would do better with two or three short walks per day. Exercise will help your dog to stay fit and healthy, its also very good for his mental health as it helps with socialisation. A walk round the park is also an ideal opportunity to reinforce dog training too.

• Routine Check-ups and Vaccinations

Its a good idea to take your puppy to the vet very soon after you get him. This will get him used to the trip to the dentist. And your dog will be on the vets 'books' in case any emergency treatment is required.

Your dog will also need to go to the vets regularly to get his routine vaccinations and worming and flea medicines.

Most vets do routine health checks too, for example will check your dog is a healthy weight and that his teeth are are good condition.

With good health care your dog should live a long and happy life!

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