Dogs are often called a man’s best friend, and there are more than a few reasons to back that up. They are great companions, loyal, loving, and can go as far as improving our health and stress levels. And as with any other friendship, the benefits go both ways.

To keep the relationship long and mutually beneficial, you need to take proper care of them. Whether you’ve just gotten a new puppy or you’ve had your furry friend for a while, staying on top of their needs should be a daily routine. And there’s always a tip or two that you may not be familiar with yet.

There is certainly no one way to take care of all types of dogs, but there are several things that will help you be a better pet owner. Here are some of the basic – but very important – dog care tips that will offer your dog the best care it could ask for.

Schedule Regular Veterinary Visits

If dog owners are regularly busy or believe their health to be generally good, they might sometimes push their vet visits for long periods of time. Whatever the reason, you should not skip their regular checkups and you should always keep an eye for any warning signs of danger. Taking adequate precautions can keep your dog safe and healthy for longer.

To make sure that you can cover all medical assistance that your dog needs, it’s advisable to get pet insurance. If you still have questions such as ‘what does pet health insurance cover’, there are readily-available resources online that offer quick and thorough information. Remember that your dog won’t always be able to let you know if something’s wrong, so always keep an eye on changes in their behavior or appearance.

Give Them A Balanced Diet And Water

The dietary requirements are different for all dogs and depend on age, breed, and health conditions, so you should always seek the advice of your vet about what and how often to feed your dog. Those requirements also start changing as your dog ages, so you will need to clean and check its teeth regularly to make sure it’s eating properly.

You should also keep an eye on everything they’re eating and keep harmful or poisonous foods out of their reach. You might also want to watch out for pet food with high chemical content, like chemical additives or preservatives. Apart from providing them with a good diet, you should make sure you’re always supplying them with enough water to keep them hydrated.

Make Sure They Are Getting Enough Exercise

Adequate exercise helps dogs burn enough calories, stimulate their minds, and maintain their health. It can also keep them from getting bored, which minimizes destructive behaviors. Walking your dog might also benefit both of you, as it provides quality time and all the health benefits of physical activity. Other exercises that provide both physical and mental stimulation include indoor activities like games.

The amount and type of exercise your dog needs will depend on the breed, sex, age, and general health levels. Most dogs need about 30-60 minutes of physical activity per day, but it’s always best to consult your vet before committing to a routine. Although you shouldn’t exhaust your dog, a good rule to go by is that a tired dog is a happy one.

Be Your Dog’s Companion

Contrary to some common beliefs, dogs tend to be inherently intelligent. They are not only extremely social, but they can often read the emotions of their close ones. After all, they’re not called a man’s best friend for no reason. However, this makes them vulnerable to neglectful or inconsistent behavior.

To stay healthy, both mentally and physically, dogs need constant love and companionship. You can provide this by spending enough time with them and making sure that most of their time is spent inside of the house with family members. Although a yard or a doghouse might be a great playing ground for your dog, they will still need to be around you or the rest of your family, who will shower them with love, treats, games, feedings, and other signs of affection.

Final Words

Taking care of your furry best friend is a big commitment and should be done correctly to ensure optimal health and happiness throughout their life. Apart from giving them love and affection, some important care tips include regular veterinary visits, a balanced diet and lots of water, enough exercise, and consistent companionship.

If you take adequate care of them, you will likely have a long and mutually beneficial relationship. Follow these tips, and watch your dog become your best friend and biggest protector.