Our dogs have tell-tale ways of letting us know how they feel. The obvious one? A wagging tail. But there are also more discreet behaviors: playfulness, lack of destructive activity, sleeping belly up, a good appetite, putting on a show of exciting play when you return to the house. The list goes on. It’s important to keep an eye on your pup’s happiness and wellbeing at all times. But even if your four-legged friend seems content and happy, don’t slack. There’s always room for further improvement. Here are a few things to add to your pup’s happiness checklist.
Walkies
Almost every dog’s favorite word tends to be the “w” one. The one you have to whisper in order to prevent them from running berserk around the house while you feebly attempt to get them into their harness and try to attach their lead. Every dog loves a walk. But it’s not just a treat. It’s a requirement. To keep your pooch happy and healthy, you need to ensure that you walk them at least once a day. This goes for any breed at almost any time (if your pup has had a surgical procedure or is ill, consult your vet and follow their instructions regarding walks and exercise). So get your walking boots and venture out, even if it is pouring down with rain. It’s the least you can do for the furry little bundle of joy.
Treats
Second to “walkies”? Treats! Just like us, pups love chowing down on their favorite snack after a long walk, in front of the television or, well, at any time really. Young puppies generally can’t have treats, so check packets for a recommended age before feeding them any. Certain puppy orientated snacks are out there on the market, so check them out and allow your pup a few when they reach the right age. As time goes by and your pooch matures, you’ll soon learn to know their preferred textures, flavors and brands. Some will prefer biscuits, some will like fresh meat treats and some will like paste treats in a hollow toy. These require a little extra effort to get out, making the treat all the sweeter once they’ve earned it. Try out healthy treats for dogs too! Some of these will help to clean your dog’s teeth, improve their breath and control plaque and tartar build up in their mouths.
Grooming
Your dog will have specific grooming requirements depending on their breed. Short haired dogs tend to require less regular grooming. Their hair generally sheds in a kind of self-cleaning process. So you will only really need to bathe them every now and then, or when they manage to roll in muddy puddles. Use dog shampoo, as human shampoo often contains harsh chemicals that may irritate your pooch’s sensitive skin. Long haired breeds and non-moulting breeds will often need to visit the groomers regularly. These professionals will be able to trim and cut their fur properly and safely, comb out any tangles or knots and give your dogs special treatments to soothe their skin. Remember that all dogs should have a checkup with the vet regularly. While you’re there, check whether they need their claws clipped or anal glands emptied.
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