Keeping your dog healthy and safe is a top priority for every pet owner. With the right care and attention, you can ensure your furry friend enjoys a long, happy life. In this guide, we’ll share five important dog care tips to help you keep your dog in optimal health. From improving digestion to preventing heat-related issues, these practices are easy to implement and can make a significant difference in your dog’s well-being.
1. Soak Kibble for Better Digestion:
Why It’s Important:
Soaking your dog’s kibble for 10-15 minutes before feeding can significantly improve their digestion. Dry kibble can be harsh on a dog’s stomach, leading to discomfort or indigestion.
How to Do It:
-Measure your dog’s portion of dry kibble.
-Add enough water or dog safe bone broth to cover the kibble and let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
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-Serve the slightly softened kibble to your dog as is or with whatever toppers you use.
This simple step ensures the food is easier to chew and digest, promoting better nutrient absorption.
2. Keep Your Dog Calm After Eating:
Why It’s Important:
Allowing your dog to rest for at least 30 minutes post-meal can help prevent tummy torsion, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This condition is a life-threatening emergency that can occur if a dog exercises or gets overly excited right after eating. Large and deep-chested breeds are most susceptible.
How to Do It:
-Feed your dog in a quiet, calm environment.
-Encourage them to lie down and relax after eating.
-Avoid any vigorous activities or playtime during this rest period.
3. Monitor Water Intake After Exercise:
Why It’s Important:
After intense exercise or a long walk, dogs can become very thirsty and may gulp water rapidly. This can also lead to tummy torsion, which is dangerous and requires immediate veterinary attention.
How to Do It:
-Offer small amounts of water at a time.
-Allow your dog to drink a little, then take a break before offering more.
-Use a bowl with a slow-release design if needed to control the flow of water.
-Another option is to wait until your dog calms down and once their breathing is more regular let them have their water.
4. Support Gut Health with Probiotic Treats:
Why It’s Important:
Just like humans, dogs benefit from a healthy gut. Incorporating natural probiotics like yogurt or kefir, and fiber-rich foods like 100% pumpkin puree (make sure it’s 100% pumpkin only) , can support your dog’s digestive health, which in turn will help with allergies or skin conditions etc.
How to Do It: (3 ways)
-Add a spoonful of plain yogurt or kefir to your dog’s food.
-Mix pumpkin puree with a little peanut butter and blueberries to create tasty frozen treats.
-Use ice cube trays or silicone molds to freeze the mixture for a refreshing, gut-friendly snack.
5. Avoid Walks During Extreme Heat:
Why It’s Important:
Walking your dog in temperatures above 90°F can be extremely dangerous. The heat can cause burns on their paw pads and lead to overheating, which is a serious health risk. Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to issues when walking in high temperatures due to their physical characteristics and genetic predispositions. These breeds often have short snouts (brachycephalic breeds) and include Bulldogs (both English and French), Pugs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, Chow Chows, Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, Saint Bernards, and Boston Terriers.
Suggestions:
-Check the temperature before heading out. If it’s above 90°F, avoid walks.
-Opt for early morning or late evening walks when it’s cooler.
-If it’s too hot, keep your dog indoors and treat them to some of the frozen snacks mentioned earlier.
-If you absolutely have to take your dog out for that walk then consider protective wear for their paws.
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Caring for your dog’s health and safety doesn’t have to be complicated. By implementing these five dog care tips, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy. Remember to soak kibble for better digestion, keep your dog calm after meals, monitor their water intake after exercise, support their gut health with probiotic treats, and avoid walks during extreme heat. These simple yet overlooked practices will help your dog thrive and enjoy a healthier, safer life.
Happy pet parenting! x
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*For more pet-friendly tips and tricks peek at the article all about picking the right indoor house plants: These 5 pet-friendly plants thrive with the right light and care, adding elegance and splendor to your indoor oasis.
