How to Increase Dog Lifespan through Healthy Eating and Lifestyle

Increasing your dog's lifespan starts with what they eat. A balanced diet that's tailored to their breed, age, and health conditions can make a huge difference. According to studies, dogs that eat a high-quality, nutrient-rich food live up to 2.5 years longer than those on lower-quality diets.

Feeding your dog at the right time is also crucial. A study found that dogs that are fed twice a day live longer than those fed once a day. This is because eating smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent obesity and other health problems.

Regular exercise is also essential for a long and healthy life. Dogs that get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day are more likely to live longer than those that don't get enough physical activity. This can include walks, runs, or playtime in the backyard.

Regular vaccinations and preventative treatments are essential for protecting your dog from various diseases and illnesses. Vaccines specifically tailored for all dog breeds are available, so it's crucial to stay up-to-date on these.

Unvaccinated puppies are particularly prone to diseases such as canine parvovirus, distemper, and hepatitis. These diseases can be fatal, and unvaccinated puppies often cannot be saved.

Your veterinarian can advise you on the best vaccination routine for your dog, which may include annual or triannual vaccinations. Core vaccines, such as those for parvovirus, distemper, and hepatitis, are essential for all dogs starting from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

Regular preventative care, including vaccinations and parasite treatments, can help extend your dog's life. Your vet has likely known your dog most of their life and can catch medical problems in routine visits before they progress.

Groomers also play a vital role in your dog's health, keeping them comfortable and often noticing when something is off on their body. Your vet may recommend supplements to improve your dog's quality of life, so be sure to discuss these options with them.

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Regular health checks are crucial for your dog's longevity. Dogs' lifespans are not equivalent to ours, so a lot can change in a year.

Annual vet checks are essential for young dogs, while older dogs (from around seven years of age) need six-monthly checks. This allows health issues to be detected early, giving your dog the best chance of successful treatment or management.

Be alert to and record any changes in your dog's behaviour, such as eating, drinking or toileting, and inspect your dog regularly during grooming sessions. This can alert you to any changes that you can then tell your veterinarian about.

Take a video of any unusual behaviour, such as limping, because dogs often have an adrenaline rush at the veterinary clinic, which can mask their symptoms.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for your furry friend to live a long and happy life. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is essential, as it reduces the risk of diseases such as osteoarthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

A defined waistline and not too much fat covering the ribs are signs of an ideal body weight. Your veterinarian can help you recognize the signs of obesity and advise on a safe program of dietary management and exercise as needed.

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Choosing high-quality, age-appropriate food that meets all your dog's nutritional needs is vital. This ensures your dog receives well-rounded nutrition for optimal health.

Maintaining joint health is also essential, especially as dogs age. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight and adding joint supplements, such as GlycanAid HA, can help reduce pain and slow the progression of joint issues.

Here are some ways to maintain your dog's joint health:

Providing mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Engage your dog's mind with puzzle toys or devise games that challenge them. Even a 10-minute daily walk or game can make a big difference.

Remember, staying educated is key to keeping your dog healthy. Stay informed about food recalls, scientific papers on canine health, and new developments that can affect your dog's life.

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Nutrition is especially important for older dogs to help them fight disease and increase their lifespan. If you're feeding them low-quality dog food, chances are they're receiving poor-quality nutrition.

Maintaining a healthy body weight is crucial, as obesity is a major welfare issue that can reduce a dog's quality of life and lifespan. In Australia, 41% of dogs are overweight or obese.

A high-quality, balanced premium commercial dog food is the best way to feed your adult dog. Your veterinarian can advise you about which diet is appropriate to your dog's life stage, body weight, and health.

Portion control is key to avoiding obesity, and commercial foods often come with a measuring cup. Supplementing your dog's food with a small amount of cooked vegetables or plain cooked rice is fine, but bones and raw meat are risky due to possible bacterial infection, fractured teeth, or intestinal blockage.

Choosing high-quality, age-appropriate food that meets all your dog's nutritional needs is essential. Supplementing their diet with occasional treats and consulting your veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations ensures your dog receives well-rounded nutrition for optimal health.

Even adding some raw food to your dog's diet can add huge benefits, such as helping them reach and maintain a healthy weight better than kibble-fed dogs.

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Dental care is a crucial aspect of a dog's overall health, and it's often overlooked.

By the age of three, 80% of dogs have some level of dental/periodontal disease, which can lead to severe health outcomes like pain, tooth loss, and serious infections to organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver.

Regular veterinary checks, home teeth cleaning, and dental chews can help prevent dental disease.

Dental disease is extremely painful for dogs, and it can also affect their overall immune system.

As dogs age, they need more meticulous dental care, including consistent at-home brushings and regular professional teeth cleanings.

Excess plaque, gum disease, and tooth decay can be prevented with proper dental care, making it a simple but important aspect of their health.

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As your furry friend ages, it's essential to adapt their care to ensure they lead a long and healthy life. Six-monthly veterinary checks are recommended for older dogs to catch any treatable diseases early, such as arthritis or intestinal disease.

Veterinarians can advise on nutritional support and any supplements needed to keep senior dogs comfortable. This can make a huge difference in their quality of life.

Adapting the home as needed is also crucial, such as providing a warmer, more supportive bed and ramps for easy access. This can help alleviate any discomfort or pain they may be experiencing.

As your dog ages, they may become crabby, achy, and lose control of their bodily functions. These problems can be challenging to deal with, but there are ways to make their golden years more comfortable.

Regular veterinary checks are essential to identify any treatable diseases, such as arthritis or intestinal disease, that may be causing your dog's discomfort. Six-monthly checks are recommended for older dogs.

You can also make your home more senior-friendly by adapting it to meet your dog's changing needs. A warmer, more supportive bed and ramps for easy access can go a long way in making your dog feel more comfortable.

Some owners find that adjusting their dog's exercise routine can help alleviate joint pain and other age-related issues. However, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes.

Orthopedic beds and water therapy are just a few examples of products and techniques that can help keep your dog healthy and comfortable in their golden years.

Regular veterinary checks are essential for older dogs, with six-monthly visits recommended to catch treatable diseases such as arthritis or intestinal disease early on.

Having a dog in our lives is a great blessing, and they deserve the very best care we can offer them in return. Learning how to give your dog a longer and healthier life can lead to some important changes in their routine that can help everyone’s wellbeing.

Veterinarians can advise on nutritional support and any supplements needed to keep senior dogs comfortable, making a big difference in their quality of life.

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Preventative healthcare treatments and routine items may not be covered by pet insurance, but a policy can help cover eligible vet bills in case of an injury or illness.

Adapting your home to meet your older dog's needs is crucial, such as providing a warmer, more supportive bed and ramps for easy access.

Your vet has likely known your dog most of their life and can catch medical problems in routine visits before the issues progress, making regular visits a must.

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