7 Must-Know Dog Care Tips for UK Dog Owners

Dogs are man’s best friends and the perfect companion. While this adored pet cannot be likened to a human, you still need to cater to their needs like your human friend or loved ones. And here is where you might get confused.

How do you shower your dog with special care? Of course, if it were your baby sister, a child, or your friend, you’d know what to do. However, if you are a new dog owner in the UK or lack good insights into what makes your dog happy, catering to their needs may seem like an impossible task.

But, when it comes to your furry friends, nothing is difficult. Caring for them is almost like catering to your needs or that of a loved one.

Below, we have highlighted 7 invaluable tips on catering to your dogs and keeping them happy.

Table of Contents

Exercise

Exercising is good for your dog, just as it is good for you. But, exercising in this context doesn’t involve forcing your dog to run 8 MPH on the treadmill or subjecting him to extreme workouts designed for humans. Instead, consider regular walks, hiking, playing fun games like fetch, and swimming. During the regular walks, let them sniff as much as they can.

While subjecting your dog to different types of exercises, it makes sense to consider mental simulation. For example, providing toys to play with, hiding treats, constructing obstacle courses, and practising new tricks stimulate your dogs’ brains and keep them engaged.

Remember, your dog doesn’t need to engage in strenuous activity to maintain fitness. Subjecting your dogs to a difficult exercise routine all in the name of fitness could affect their health.

Regular checkups

Like you, your dog needs regular wellness checkups. A wellness exam gives your vet the best opportunity to conduct multiple health screens that can result in the early detection of diseases and note warning signs of severe illness that could impair your dog’s health.

Common and severe dog illnesses like diabetes and arthritis can be managed better when diagnosed earlier. As a UK dog owner, a regular visit to the veterinarian means early detection, which will elongate your pet’s healthy years. I bet this is something you yearn for.

Preventative medication

Regular checkups are essential for your pet, as well as providing him with preventative medications. These measures go hand in hand and, if done right, can benefit your dog’s health in the long run. Preventative medications, as the name implies, are designed to keep illnesses at bay.

With the appropriate preventive medication for your dog, health issues like heartworms, flea-related diseases, and tick-borne illnesses will be prevented. In addition to offering your dog preventative medication, it makes sense to consider their dental health.

Make sure you brush your pet’s teeth regularly. Also, give him dental chews to help prevent periodontal disease, which can result in severe health issues.

Read Does Coconut Oil Kill Fleas in Dogs?

Proper Nutrition

A healthy dog is a happy dog. You would agree that one of the best ways to look after your pet is by feeding them appropriately with the right type of food to maintain a healthy weight, which is key to their lifespan.

Proper nutrition in dogs is more than knowing when to feed them. It involves more knowing what to feed them. Like humans, your dogs can meet their nutritional needs from a balanced diet containing protein (from an animal), vegetables, whole grains, and fat, including micronutrients.

However, if you don’t know how to prepare a balanced diet using the components mentioned above, you can consider buying raw dog food in the UK. Raw dog food for pets is becoming very popular due to the nutritional benefits they boast of.

Lastly, always ensure that your dog gets enough fresh water and monitor the treat you give him. Contact your vet to see if he needs any supplements.

Grooming

Grooming your pet is one of the best ways to care for your dog. Remember, an unkempt or unhygienic dog is a haven for diseases that aren’t only dangerous to your dog’s health but to yours as well.

So, while engaging your dog in those little exercises, taking him for a regular checkup, and giving him preventative medications, it makes sense to consider his hygiene.

How clean is your dog? Are his nails as long as that of a wild animal, or does he reek? If yes, consider trimming his nails and giving him a regular bath using the right dog bathing tool.

And oh, while grooming your dog, keep an eye on its fur or skin. Scrutinize his skin for dandruff, bald patches, injuries, or dry skin. In addition, you should also look out for lumps and bumps that may raise concerns. Check with your vet for the best dog grooming tips.

Affection

I feel this is one of the most important care tips for your dog. However, some dog owners in the United Kingdom may feel otherwise. While dogs are lower animals and lack the same range of emotions as humans, it is crucial to note that your furry friend is conscious or aware of the affection shown towards him.

Like your loved ones, it makes sense to shower your dog with oodles of attention. Not only does this strengthen the bond you share, but it also promotes social interaction with other animals and humans. Common ways to show your dog affection are cuddles, quality attention, petting, belly rubs, and brushing its coat.

Pet safety

Your pet’s safety is paramount. Even if you own a Rottweiler or one of those big tough dogs, you still have to put several safety measures in place to ensure that they don’t get hurt.

Remember, dogs don’t think like humans, and they may not be able to differentiate between safe and unsafe because of this. In light of that, ensure you make your home safe by putting away all dangerous instruments or substances.

Also, consider getting your dog collars with identification tags, microchips, including other gadgets designed to guarantee the safety of your dog.

Conclusion

As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to look after your dogs and shower them with the best love and care. There are several ways to cater to your dogs, from grooming to showing them affection, proper nutrition, exercise, regular checkup, etc. These acts will enhance your dog’s health and promote that bond that has always existed between a man and his supposed best friend.

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