Essential Dog Health Tips: Key Areas Every Dog Owner Must Know

Owning a dog is one of the most joyful and rewarding experiences you can have, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Just like humans, dogs require regular check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, rest, and proper grooming. Understanding the key areas of dog health is crucial for any dog owner. This comprehensive guide covers essential aspects of dog health, from nutrition and exercise to preventive care and mental well-being.

 

NUTRITION

Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is the cornerstone of a healthy life for your dog. Dogs require a mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Commercial dog foods are often unable to meet these nutritional needs, so it’s extremely important to choose high-quality products. Look for dog foods that list meat as the first ingredient and avoid those with excessive fillers like corn and soy.

Special Dietary Needs

Some dogs have special dietary needs due to allergies, medical conditions, or life stages (puppy, adult, senior). Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog. For instance, puppies need food rich in protein and fat to support growth, while senior dogs might need lower-calorie diets to prevent obesity.

Hydration

With all the emphasis on diet and exercise, this is one that’s often forgotten! Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water. Hydration is crucial for digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including kidney problems. Monitor your dog's water intake, especially during hot weather or after vigorous exercise, to ensure they stay properly hydrated.

Supplementation

What many dog owners don’t know is that there are several ingredients which are extremely beneficial for their dog’s health that simply cannot be found in their food (either in sufficient quantities or at all). This is why supplementation is so important.

There is a plethora of supplements out in the market now, making it hard to decide what’s best for your dog.  That’s why we’ve created Marlo, a complete, all-in-one nutritional supplement for dogs.  Marlo is Australian made, using clinically backed, human grade ingredients.  What’s more, we don’t use any artificial colours, flavours or ingredients.  If you’re unsure what your dog needs, Marlo is the place to start!

 

EXERCISE AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

Regular Exercise

Exercise is vital for your dog's physical and mental health. It helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles, supports cardiovascular health, and reduces behavioural problems. Different breeds have different exercise needs. For example, a Border Collie might require hours of activity, while a Pug may be content with shorter, less intense play sessions.

Types of Exercise

Engage your dog in various forms of exercise to keep them stimulated and active. This can include walking, running, playing fetch, and swimming. For high-energy breeds, activities like agility training and frisbee can provide excellent outlets for their energy.

Weight Management

Obesity is a common issue in dogs and can lead to numerous health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and joint issues. Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine as needed. Regular vet check-ups can help keep track of your dog's weight and overall health.

 

PREVENTIVE CARE

Vaccinations

Vaccinations protect your dog from various infectious diseases, such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Follow your veterinarian’s vaccination schedule, which typically includes initial shots for puppies followed by regular boosters. Staying up to date with vaccinations is crucial for preventing outbreaks of these potentially deadly diseases.

Parasite Control

Fleas, ticks, and worms can cause serious health issues for dogs. Regularly use preventive treatments as recommended by your vet. Annual faecal exams can help detect internal parasites, while topical or oral treatments can prevent flea and tick infestations. Additionally, heart worm prevention is crucial, especially in areas where these parasites are prevalent.

Spaying and Neutering

Spaying or neutering your dog not only helps control the pet population but also provides health benefits. Spaying females can prevent uterine infections and reduce the risk of breast tumours, while neutering males can prevent testicular cancer and reduce the risk of prostate problems. Discuss the best timing for these procedures with your vet.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure!

Remember that ultimately, the healthier your dog is, the less likely they will be to suffer from health issues that require medical attention.  A balanced diet combined with supplementation and regular physical activity is undoubtedly the best form of prevention! Remembering this can greatly reduce hefty vet bills down the road.

 

REGULAR VETERINARY CHECK-UPS

Annual Exams

Regular vet visits are essential for preventive care and early detection of health issues. During an annual exam, the vet will check your dog's weight, temperature, heart rate, and overall condition. Blood tests and other diagnostics might be performed to monitor organ function and detect diseases early. These visits also provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns you have about your dog's health or behaviour.

Senior Dog Care

As dogs age, they are prone to certain health issues such as arthritis, kidney disease, and cancer. Senior dogs should have more frequent vet visits—typically every six months. Regular monitoring can help manage age-related conditions and improve your dog's quality of life. Adjusting their diet and exercise regimen can also help manage age-related changes.

Breed Specific Care

Certain breeds are more susceptible to certain conditions. For example, brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, are prone to respiratory problems. Signs include difficulty breathing, coughing, and excessive panting. Keep your dog at a healthy weight, avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather, and consult your vet if you notice respiratory distress. Managing their environment and activity levels can help prevent exacerbations.  Make sure you speak to your vet about common issues specific to your dogs breed that you should be aware of.

 

GROOMING

Coat Care

Regular grooming helps keep your dog’s coat healthy and reduces shedding. Brushing removes dead hair, dirt, and prevents matting. The frequency of grooming depends on the dog’s breed and coat type. Long-haired breeds may need daily brushing, while short-haired breeds can often be groomed weekly. Regular grooming also helps you check for skin issues, parasites, and other abnormalities.

Bathing

Bathing your dog regularly helps maintain their skin and coat health. Use dog-specific shampoos to avoid skin irritation. The frequency of bathing depends on the dog's activity level and coat type. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, so balance is key.

Nail Trimming

Overgrown nails can cause pain and lead to mobility issues. Regular nail trimming is essential, especially for dogs that do not naturally wear down their nails. Use proper nail clippers and be cautious not to cut too close to the quick, which can cause bleeding and pain. If you're unsure how to trim your dog's nails, ask your vet or groomer for a demonstration.

Ear and Eye Care

Regularly check your dog’s ears and eyes for signs of infection or irritation. Clean the ears with vet-recommended solutions and gently wipe away discharge from the eyes. Redness, swelling, or unusual discharge should be examined by a vet. Certain breeds with floppy ears or prominent eyes may require more frequent care.

 

MENTAL HEALTH AND ENRICHMENT

Socialisation

Proper socialisation is crucial for your dog's mental well-being. Introduce your dog to different environments, people, and other animals from a young age. This helps reduce fear and aggression and promotes a well-adjusted temperament. Continued socialisation throughout their life can help prevent behavioural issues.

Mental Stimulation

Mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Provide toys, puzzles, and engage in training sessions to keep your dog’s mind active. Boredom can lead to destructive behaviours and anxiety. Rotate toys regularly and introduce new activities to keep your dog engaged.

Training and Behaviour

Consistent training helps establish a strong bond between you and your dog. It also ensures your dog behaves appropriately in various situations. Positive reinforcement methods are the most effective and humane way to train your dog. Training also provides mental stimulation and can help alleviate behavioural issues such as barking, chewing, and digging.

 

COMMON HEALTH ISSUES

Gastrointestinal Issues

Dogs can suffer from various gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhoea, vomiting, and bloating. These can result from dietary indiscretions, infections, or more serious conditions like pancreatitis. Monitor your dog's eating habits and stool, and consult a vet if issues persist. Probiotics can help maintain a healthy digestive system and prevent some gastrointestinal problems.

When dealing with gastrointestinal issues, dog probiotics and nutritional yeast are key ingredients that all dog owners should consider.  Incorporating dog probiotics into your pet's diet can significantly improve their digestive health. Dog probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. Dog probiotics can also help manage issues like diarrhoea and allergies, contributing to overall health. Nutritional yeast can further assist by reducing gut permeability and inflammation.

Each serving of Marlo contains over 1 billion colony forming units (CFUs) of probiotic, and 1000MG of nutritional yeast, making it a potent choice for your pup!

Joint and Mobility Problems

Arthritis and hip dysplasia are common in older and large breed dogs. Symptoms include limping, stiffness, and reluctance to move. Weight management, canine joint supplements, and regular exercise can help manage these conditions. In severe cases, medication or surgery may be necessary. Canine joint supplements can be beneficial in supporting joint health, especially in breeds prone to arthritis.

Supplements such as Marlo that contains MSM and Boswellia serrata are great for helping maintain joint health and reduce inflammation.  MSM is a naturally occurring compound that is crucial for many bodily functions, including repairing and maintaining connective tissue like joints, cartilage and tendons.  Boswellia serrata inhibits enzymes that cause inflammation and reduce the production of other pro-inflammatory molecules in your dog’s body.

Skin Problems

Skin issues are common in dogs and can be caused by allergies, parasites, or infections. Symptoms include itching, redness, and hair loss. Regular grooming and a healthy diet can prevent some skin problems, but persistent issues should be evaluated by a vet. Treatments may include medicated shampoos, dietary changes, and medications to manage allergies or infections.

MSM, Boswellia serrata and probiotics are also fantastic for your dog’s skin.  MSM helps reduce allergy symptoms by binding to the mucus membrane. This creates a natural barricade against allergens.  Boswellia serrata, as a potent anti-inflammatory, can help soothe some skin issues, particularly those related to allergies.  Probiotics help regulate the immune response to allergens and assist in reducing allergies.

Dental Health

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can help maintain your dog's dental health. You can also use a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste. Just ensure they are specifically designed for canines, as human dental products can be harmful to dogs. Signs of dental problems include bad breath, difficulty eating, and swollen gums. Regular dental care can prevent serious issues such as periodontal disease, which can lead to pain and tooth loss.

To help with dental health, Marlo contains kelp, which can significantly reduce plaque, calculus and other volatile compounds in your dog’s mouth. Improving gut health with our probiotic and reducing inflammation with Boswellia serrata also greatly assist with your dog’s dental health.

Anxiety and Stress

Dogs can experience anxiety and stress, which can manifest in behaviours such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, and aggression. Common causes include separation anxiety, loud noises, and changes in routine. Addressing the underlying causes and providing a stable environment can help manage these issues. In severe cases, consulting with a vet or a professional behaviourist may be necessary.

Marlo contains Ashwagandha, a powerful adaptogen. Adaptogens like Ashwagandha help reduce emotional and physical stresses, which can protect your dog against the negative effects of environmental stresses, especially if your dog is prone to nervousness

Cancers

Many dogs, particularly aging dogs, will experience cancerous growths at one point in their lives.  We know this can be an extremely stressful thought for any owner, which is why we’ve included cordyceps in Marlo. Cordyceps inhibits tumour growth via upregulating tumour apoptosis and targeting cancer stem cells. It also regulates the tumour environment by suppressing growth pathways.

 

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Recognising Emergencies

It’s crucial to recognise signs of an emergency, such as difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, or severe bleeding. Knowing basic first aid and having a pet first aid kit can be life saving. Familiarise yourself with common emergency signs and symptoms so you can act quickly.

Emergency Vet Care

Identify the nearest emergency veterinary clinic and keep their contact information readily available. In emergencies, time is of the essence, and being prepared can make a significant difference in your dog’s outcome. Knowing where to go and who to call can save precious time during a crisis.

Travel and Outdoor Safety

When traveling or spending time outdoors, ensure your dog is safe. Use appropriate restraints in vehicles, keep your dog on a leash in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious of hazards like toxic plants, wildlife, and extreme weather conditions. Carry a basic first aid kit and know the location of the nearest vet when traveling.

Natural Disasters

Have a plan in place for natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes. This includes having an emergency kit with food, water, medications, and important documents for your dog. Ensure your dog is microchipped and has up-to-date ID tags in case you get separated.

 

CONCLUSION

Caring for a dog requires a holistic approach to their health and well-being. By focusing on nutrition, exercise, preventive care, grooming, mental health, and being prepared for emergencies, you can ensure your dog lives a long, healthy, and happy life. Regular veterinary check-ups and staying informed about your dog's needs are key components of responsible pet ownership.

Incorporating the right tools and products, such as a dog toothbrush, dog toothpaste, and supplementation (such as Marlo, which contains dog probiotics, canine joint supplements and more!) will also greatly enhance your dog's health care routine. These products will help ensure your dog's overall well-being. With the right care and attention, your dog will thrive and be a loyal companion for many years to come. Your furry friend relies on you for their health and happiness, and we all know they deserve nothing but the best!