What are some unique ways to keep my dog both healthy and happy?

Question

Joy Marley · Answer

We spend daily time together — exercise, brain games, training, cuddles, grooming. They eat a good diet, have access to clean water at all times, see the vet as needed. They have safe and soft places to sleep indoors. They did have summer dog camp days for a few summers

or go camping with my friend and me as we were able to reserve spots — that has been increasingly difficult over the years, but I make up for it in other ways. They have a safe play area at home with sprinklers, toys, and a kiddy pool to splash in. I recognize their worries and address them (one needed her orange thunder shirt here) They appear quite pleased with their lives.

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Suzanne Slavich · Answer

First off, I have four, completely different tempered dogs. Three are rescues, one is a rehome. Together, the four make up a tight knit pack.

The first thing I did when I brought them into my home was to make them feel secure. Roscoe came on a Thursday, and when he was rescued from his neglectful former owner, he had to be cut out of his fur and was very angry and frightened of what was happening. Gidget, came home the very next day. I brought her home from a rescue shelter as well, and she was damaged from unspeakable cruelty. She shook like a leaf, and had sustained injuries which resulted in her failing eyesight. Max, my third and limit of dogs, arrived three weeks later, and he was and is, a compassionate, loving boy to all dogs and people. He came and laid between the two and gave them love and comfort, that only another dog can. During this time of newness to all three, I made sure that I was home with them and that they went outside many, many times a day, so that they knew where to go and I fed them home made and delicious food. I gave them healthy treats and bones to chew on. I left Roscoe alone and talked to him sweetly, and told him all of the wonderful things that we were going to do. This was before I started my in home dog boarding business, so I had lots of time to dote on them. I took them to the dog parks, on daily walks around the neighborhood and to their favorite places, Petsmart and Petco, where they knew that they would get something delicious.

These three pups loved to make the drive to the beach and romp all day. Then they would sleep all the way home. Things were lovely. Then, in March of 2020, a little Dorkie named Rex found his way into our home. He was a year old, and not housebroken, had no impulse control and would not listen to me. He took ownership of my Max as his personal pet, and the challenge was on. He needed boundaries, training, love and a better diet.

It’s been two years with Rex, and five years with my other three. They are all thriving and doing great, even Rex, our problem child. He now knows that this is his forever home, that I will not discard him, and that he is expected to obey me. He does at least 80 percent of the time, improving daily.

So, I would say, that the key to having happy, healthy dogs is making them feel secure, letting them know right away that you are in charge, they don’t have to make decisions or run the roost. They just need to listen to you and obey you. All they want is your love and a soft heart. And of course good, healthy food. Ever since I began feeding them real food, and not burnt nuggets in a bag, with a long shelf life, their health has improved, their energy level is up and we see the vet much less often.

So there you have it. Love your dog, give him friends, set boundaries, feed them healthy foods, give them special treats that show them how much you adore them. Laugh with them, play with them, take them outside to exercise with you as much as possible. And tell them every day how much you love them. Because they are such a big part of my life, I am grateful that I was chosen to be the caretaker of this lovely bunch.

Gidget holds Max for comfort

Max sits with Roscoe

Baby Rex

Max, Roscoe and Rex. Rex is pouting, he doesn’t like picture time.

My beautiful Gidget, a Papillion Chihuahua mix, enjoying the Oregon coast. Above, Max, Gidget and Roscoe before Rex came along.

Rex’s first visit to our vet. Look at that mug. So cute and full of zip.

Anonymous · Answer

FOR CATS: (some of this goes for other pets too)

1. Have them live INDOORS. This will extend their lives!! Less likely to catch a disease, disappear, or get hit by a car if inside the house.
2. Give nutritious, healthy food and fresh spring water every day.
3. Regular veterinarian visits. Updated shots. Regular claw trimming.
4. Clean the kitty litter box each day.
5. Playtime everyday. Spend time with them. They are social and need your attention to be friendly around humans. Find out how your cat likes to play. Some like things that fly on sticks like feathers. Some like balls. My cats like Jackson Galaxy's products from Petsmart. One likes to chase ping-pong balls, the other likes feathers on sticks.
6. Lots of Love, snuggles, perhaps another cat friend to keep them company while you are gone each day will keep them happy.
7. The last thing I can tell you that may sound strange but I'll say it anyway is “your voice”. My cats find my voice soothing so I talk to them. I say “Good morning”, “time for bed”, “are you hungry?”, “snackie time”, “birdie in the back yard”. Because of this after 8–10 years they also know what I'm saying and will respond! (It's still crazy when they both run to the back window when I say “birdie in the back yard!”)

Terence Hall · Answer

My dog is 12, quite soon to be 13. He’s slowed down over the last two or three years and some arthritis in one leg doesn’t help.

He does love to go out. He’ll wander slowly around, sniffing and exploring, going to make friends with any other dogs we meet and going to the owners to check for treats. I don’t take him any distance on each walk as he does get tired quickly. He does get more excited when he realises we are going out in the car, where I have to carry a small platform around to help him get in. At other times he just likes to stand with me or someone he meets and get stroked and fussed.

Being old he doesn’t want to bother with any of the old games. He doesn’t chase a ball or a stick. I think he gets a bit frustrated when the other dogs chase around as he just can’t manage that.

We are just approching what might be his happiest time, when the wild apple tree on one of his walks has a good crop. The apples are quite small and he loves to have one each time we pass. He lies down, breaks the apple with his teeth then eats the pieces - all of them.

This Bobby [the retriever] with a friend he met at the boarding kennels.

Maree Wragg · Answer

I owned a toy poodle for 17 years and a schipperke for 14 years. My Dad had a KC spaniel for 18 years. The most important thing is for it to be an indoor dog, as much as they want, not just when you want. (so install a dog door) This includes sleeping inside and not in the cold laundry but in the house in the same environment as you. Make sure you keep their water clean and topped up. And give them human grade food. I did that for my two girls, my dad for his KC. not raw, but lightly cooked. We used to give our dogs a bone every night, but that broke their teeth, so our last little girl got the cooked gristle off a chicken leg. I am not a fan of raw food (and neither were my girls), nor of giving a dog chicken bones, so would never give a dog a raw chicken neck.

My girls, and Dad’s dog were walked morning and night. My toy poodle got A LOT of walking, and was very healthy all her life, except right at the end. Pay attention to their eyesight and hearing, without even one of these senses, their lives can be very limited.

Take them out for a car ride when you go shopping , and take them with you wherever you can. I took my girls to visit whenever I knew I was going to a dog friendly house. But if you leave them in the car make sure the car is in a spot that will be undercover all the time you are away, even in cooler weather, you never know when the sun will come out. And ensure the windows are down some. A car can be replaced, but your dog cannot.

My last little girl had neighbours who she adored, and who adored her back. I always made sure she visited with these women fairly often. Likewise if we found another dog who she was comfortable with, I always tried to arrange for her to spend some time with that dog, so she could run and play, she remained a puppy at heart all her life.

Find a vet who obviously loves dogs, but, even then, YOU also need to observe them for behavioural changes, both of my girls suffered a severe injury which the vet I took them too did not observe, and therefore did not treat, It was only after each of them passed that I realised what had caused their demise.

Finally love them and respect them and give them company. Talk to them, using their name in conversation, whilst looking at them. Leaving a dog alone all day is unfair for a pack animal, and having a big backyard does not mean they will be able to entertain themselves or will want to run around by themselves.

BuckwheatBill · Answer

FRESH “R.O” WATER DAILY. According to my plumber, REVERSE OSMOSIS water removes all the chlorine, FLOURIDE and other poisons from your tap water. The “BARF” diet is THE “species appropriate” diet for CANINES and increases their life span by 3 healthier years compared to feeding a commercial dog food. The past FIFTY YEARS, I’ve taken my dogs for DAILY 30–45 minute walks at their own pace using a HARNESS & 6′ LEASH, NEVER after dark, around the “hood.” ALL my total of 10 dogs over the past 50 years has chosen to sleep on my bed with me. I brush my dogs teeth nightly at bedtime with a SOFT BRUSH

FRESH “R.O” WATER DAILY. According to my plumber, REVERSE OSMOSIS water removes all the chlorine, FLOURIDE and other poisons from your tap water. The “BARF” diet is THE “species appropriate” diet for CANINES and increases their life span by 3 healthier years compared to feeding a commercial dog food. The past FIFTY YEARS, I’ve taken my dogs for DAILY 30–45 minute walks at their own pace using a HARNESS & 6′ LEASH, NEVER after dark, around the “hood.” ALL my total of 10 dogs over the past 50 years has chosen to sleep on my bed with me. I brush my dogs teeth nightly at bedtime with a SOFT BRUSH & BAKING SODA, NEVER human toothpaste since most of that is contaminated with poisons like XYLITOL, FLOURIDE and/or other TOXIC chemicals. I keep on hand for emergencies, AMOXICILLIN for infections and PUREED PUMPKIN for immediate relief of DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS such as diarrhea or puking. I give my current 13 y.o., 30# terrier-mix, “natural” supplements such as a MULTI-VITAMIN, COQ–10, BREWERS YEAST (B-VITAMINS), EYEBRIGHT. WHITE WILLOW BARK (for any arthritis pan he may have), CONDROITIN/GLUSAMINE/MSM for his arthritis (stopped his limping immediately), THE BARF DIET, homemade beef jerky treats (grass-fed beef is the ONLY ingredient), a few bites of apple, avocado, mandarin orange, pecan halves, banana, mango and most any other raw fruit/veggie we are having. We give him regular ear treatments/flushes for any ear mite or yeast infection problems. We give him BETADINE SOLUTION foot soaks for any “toad cooties” he picks up on our daily walks and he gets regular brushings whenever he is shedding (twice a tear). He gets a bath about once a month or whenever he starts to smell “doggy.” He has a “doggy door” for his unlimited access to our large FENCED (SECURE) back yard.

Madeline Hayes · Answer

Engage in activities beyond routine walks, like scent training, interactive toys, swimming, or agility courses. A balanced diet, regular vet visits, mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement training contribute to a happy, healthy dog. For more, check out my Quora Profile.

Ellen Wallace · Answer

My dogs are fed a good quality dog food twice a day. They sleep inside at night and have the run of a large yard during the day. They have toys and treats and lots of belly rubs and cuddles as well as play time and walks.

They take meds to keep them heartworm, flea, and tick-free.

They get regular baths and grooming to keep them comfortable and clean. Most of all, they know they are loved.

Sabine Ehlers · Answer

* Tire him. Dogs are built for physical activity: to run, to chase, to hunt, to track, to jump... Give your dog plenty of exercise every day and you'll be surprised over how well behaved he'll be. I have 10 dogs and every time we have dinner guests my first priority is not to get fresh flowers or to vaccuum; it's to take the dogs out for a good run or bicycle tour. All my guests are amazed at how 10 dogs can be completely unconspicious. "They are so well-behaved!" say my guests impressed. "They're not well-behaved; they're tired." I always answer.
 * Let him be with you. Dogs are social animals; they are not suited to being alone. They want to be with you, even if it's just to sleep at your feet while you work at your computer or wait in the car while you run errands. 
 * Give him a job. Dogs have been bred for generations to work for us, whether to guard stock or move flocks, hunt or pull. Every breed with a little bit of history was bred for a specific pupose, and every dog loves feeling useful. Let him carry a backpack, let him track your kids hiding in the forest, let him pull a cart with your shopping. Be creative and give your dog a purpose; he'll be forever grateful to you for it and everyone will be amazed at the bond you have!
 * Feed him well. Spend a little extra on the dog food; you'll notice a difference. Don't let him become over-weight (but if you follow the first point above, he won't be). 
 * Treat him for internal (worms) and external (ticks and fleas) parasites.
 * Pay attention to his health. If there is something amiss, go to the vet and check it up right away. Don't wait for it to become a big problem. 
 
Good luck! :-)

Anonymous · Answer

One would say that “aging is a natural progression of maturity", but happiness is owning dogs.

Dogs in general like to sniff and explore their surroundings so therefore walking is essential in providing that.

Playing also involves the dog to “sharpen it's mind". Dogs like to be “challenged", so therefore make it fun kinda like a treasure hunt to retrieve and hide their favorite 🧸 TOY, or hide treats within the house to have them “sniff👃🐽👃” it's whereabouts. Playing hide and seek to see how long it takes your dog to locate your scent.

💤 Sleeping and getting enough adequate rest to recharge for the next day is also a key element for happiness.

Dining or eating makes the dog superfluously 😁 happy and generates a sense of well-being and being cared for.

Ultimately there will come a time when your dog will naturally start to slow down, so respect that boundary and “don't push", but instead support 💕😘 and continue to praise your dog.

A happy 😁🥰😁 dog is a well balanced one that adheres to you and sticks close.

John Kenny · Answer

Drew and Joy both nailed it below. When you said “safe", it triggered the thought — hey maybe the OP doesn't even realize this, so I should say something:

Friend there's stuff out there that's poisonous to dogs, but not humans. Yes, chocolate is bad, but I bet you've heard that a million times — and I want to focus on a couple of even more serious things:

Raisins/ grapes — I didn't even realize this until I was older. Read about it if you like. Its a strange beast, from what I've read one or two Raisins can cause kidney failure / death, but there are times when dogs somehow get away with eating some. The risk is way too high! Just consider them a deadly poison. FWIW, I will not even allow anyone or anything with Raisins in the house. (Includes certain bagels, Irish soda bread . . .)

Does this then apply to wine? To grape juice? I asked my Vet this question. Her honest answer: “John, we really don't know exactly what (in a raisin or grape) causes death. So just consider wine or grape juice poisonous— its just not worth it!”

Xylitol— a common “fake" sweetener. Read packages. I was stunned to find it is now used in Tom's of Maine toothpaste! I can just imagine knocking a tube of spearmint toothpaste onto the floor — it'd sure smell like its tasty to a puppy!!! Last time I posted this / we discussed this someone was kind enough to point out: some peanut butter brands use it now too!

You should double check me. But I believe aspartame is also toxic to dogs.

I personally abhor fake sweeteners, so not much risk — but I don't know about you.

Do you or someone in your household work on cars? Engine coolant: the bad news is— it tastes really really good! Problem? Its deadly!!! Never ever let it puddle up — wash it away with a hose.

I feel like I'm missing a few really obvious ones. Others will surely join in to help keep you safe.

Hey, just thought of this “lesson learned”: years ago we brought Colleen to the vet. He prescribed a pill to clear an issue. We brought her home started to administer the med as prescribed. . . Next day, we looked. Where did the bottle go? Looked around — found it on the floor. She had eaten all the pills at once!

Vet was nearby, I raced her down to the office. The lady at the front desk listened and as soon as I mentioned the drug, she commented: “oh(!) didn't they tell you to hide the bottle? These pills are delicious tasting! This happens a lot.” I'm told 2 veins popped out in my forehead right about then! It was ok, they treated and released her.(no charge to me)

My point? WTH, dog gets meds? Always ask if the pills are dangerous because they taste good. Hey, it wouldn't hurt to inquire what an overdose level would be!

Let me tell you a related story. I had just been prescribed pain meds. Oxcodone pills. I'm at the vet, and a what if thought crossed my mind. Horrible thought but forewarned is forarmed. What is wondered to myself if I dropped a pill and puppy got it?

I asked the vet. She replied: what is the dose (size of pill)? I replied: “5mg”. She answered well we give dogs 5mgs to calm them before an operation, it wouldn't kill her but…(be careful bla blah). My point? Doesn't hurt to ask about meds you're on, that they might access, right?

Keeping puppy happy? Here's an indoor fun one. Its a play on the stay and come commands. Take her to the far side of the house. Say stay (yes you'll have to repeat it a thousand times) as you walk away to “hide". Stand behind an open door, in the tub with shower curtains pulled, lay on far side of bed in shadows, go in a dark closet with door ajar.

Once settled, say “Come.” Your job, be as quiet and motionless as possible. Puppy will start to hunt for you intently. Watch, i bet her tail slowly cycles left right left (this slow wag is a sign of concentration!), if she leaves and turns corner, make the slightest peep! She'll hear it, come back (fast!) to try harder (tail wagging faster) . . .

Wait till you see the shear joy of happiness and accomplishment on her face when she finds you (and you hand her that good girl treat you have waiting!)!!!

Its a simple indoor game, but I've yet to meet a dog who doesn't just love it.

BTW next time you do it, she'll head right to the places she found you last times. It exercises her memory, her listening, her smelling, her hunting, even her rescue (find my precious family member) skills.

Enjoy

Danielle Livingston · Answer

Dogs aim to please, they want to be loved, fed and get plenty of exercise. In my experience the keys to a healthy, happy dog is 1) Training 2) exercise 3) Healthy diet and 4) love. Never let your dog believe he/she is the Alpha, that is your role, if you allow them to control you, things will be miserable for you. Dogs need a routine, boundaries. A great example would be, if you wouldn't let your kids get away with it, then don't allow your dog to. I believe a healthy diet consists low carbs, lots of protein and vegetables, so an organic diet would be best. Last but not least exercise first then affection and proper veterinary care.

Patty Cranston · Answer

Many years ago my son gave me a book by Elizabeth Marshall Thomas called The Hidden Life of Dogs [ http://elizabethmarshallthomas.net/books/the-hidden-life-of-dogs/ ]. It gave me some insightful information into the basic nature of “man’s best friend.”

From this book I learned first and foremost, that dogs are pack animals. Whether other dogs are part of our dog’s pack or we as owners form “the pack” … the fact remains that dogs are not solitary animals. They hate being left alone.

So in my experience as a dog owner for several decades, do not leave them alone for hours by themselves. If you have to leave a dog when you’re at work all day, make sure a dog walker or caregiver comes by at least once or twice a day.

Secondly, dogs need exercise.

No dog ever complains that they have to go for a walk! I live in an amazing city with lots of parkland and trails so we are able to take the dog(s) to off-leash areas where they can run free.

Provide your dogs with love, exercise and a healthy diet (remember: dogs are carnivores!) and it will be a mutually beneficent relationship.

Cindy Ludwig · Answer

Proper early socialization

If you have a puppy, your highest priority should be to make sure that puppy gets proper early socialization before he turns 3 months of age and the window of opportunity closes to create a well-adjusted dog who will not develop behavior problems later in life.

Avoid early neutering

If you have a male, neuter him later rather than earlier if you have a choice. Research has demonstrated that early neutering before the age of 6 months can result in behavior problems, including aggression.

Mental and physical exercise

With any dog, I have found that regular mental stimulation and physical exercise, plus a good diet and fresh water and air go a long way in raising a healthy and happy dog. I’ve never been one to take my dogs out for a daily walk along the same route. I take my dogs exploring to see and experience new places.

Proper training

Training is also essential, and it needs to be the right kind of training. Dogs do not need to be punished to learn. In fact, a study [ http://news.mit.edu/2009/successes-0729 ] done at MIT nine years ago this month concluded that animals learn from successes and not failure. The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists has issued guidelines for selecting a trainer [ http://www.dacvb.org/wp-content/uploads/How-to-select-a-trainer-A-guide-for-owners.pdf ] that exclude those who use aversive collars and methods.

Final thoughts

Spend time with your dog, talk to him, take him places, ensure his safety by transporting him safely in a crate or with a seat harness. Keep regular veterinary appointments, use a flea and tick preventative, give him a heartworm preventative, keep him inside with his human family, feed him a quality food on a regular schedule, make fresh water accessible 24 hours a day, and make sure he gets a minimum of a once daily walk off the property.

Drew Stephen · Answer

My little girl, Coco, is 8 years old. Still plenty of life, but its important that she stays happy and healthy.

I received some great advice when I first got her from a man who had 3 dogs and they were all great.

His advice was simple. Stay active and engaging with your dog and invite them with you whenever you can.

I suggest the following:

* Plenty of long, quality walks. Not as a chore or to use the bathroom. Intentional walks with your pup.
 * Take your pup with you whenever you can. Going hiking? Take your dog. Camping? Take your Dog. Road trip across the country to Chicago? Take your dog.
 * Play games with your dog. Play fetch if your dog likes fetch. My dog coco does fetch, tug-of-war, hide in seek, and tag.
 * See if your dog likes water. If they do, take them swimming in a pond or river.
 * Going out to eat? Is there a dog friendly patio? Take your dog.
 * Take them for a car ride. Coco loves a car ride especially when I roll the window down.
 * Let them outside. They like sun.
 * Let them bark with intention!
 * Socialize them with other doggie friends. This could be at the dog park.
 * Give them treats or bones to chew on.
I think its easy to keep a dog happy and healthy. It begins with a commitment and an invitation from you to truly make them a part of your life. Your dog will walk your life path with you as your companion only if you allow them.

Many of the things I listed above are very simple, it just takes time, commitment, and engagement. So many people use their dogs as a crutch in their life. The challenge is to truly invite your dog into your life and engage them in a meaningful way.

Here are some pictures:

Coco Hiking

Playing fetch.

Coco with Friends

She has a nice and comfortable bed to rest in.

I let her mooch.

I dress her up sometimes and she gets a ton of attention… which she loves.

She is ready for an adventure.

Coco eager to see where I’m taking her.

I really try to incorporate her into all aspects of my life that I can and its worked out really well.

She’s been a happy dog with a very active life. In turn, I have received a companion that is irreplaceable and walks with me on my life’s journey.

Alexee Hunter · Answer

🐕 are happy when they are near us, when we snuggle and play with them, when they see and hear us laugh, it makes them happy. When they get their favorite treat or a ride in the car, or even a walk through the neighborhood with us. They will stop and smell every blade of grass to know who and when someone else came by this same way. We are what makes dogs happy, we crazy, goofy, and often upset and stressed out humans we make them happy, and they give us everything they can give every day. The world without dogs would be an awful place..and I say this with a 25pound Lab puppy stretched out on my lap, dreaming away. Dogs make us better. Kinder, more loving…you name it, any good thing..

All the best

Alexee

Susan · Answer

* Don’t let your dog get fat. This ONE goal can do so much good for your dog! If you can’t feel his ribs when you lightly run your hand along his/her side, your dog is too fat. These days we’re so used to seeing fat dogs than a lean, fit dog looks starved.
 * Walk at least 30 minutes every day. Not an ambling shuffle, but a serious “I am going somewhere” walk.
 * Feed a good quality dog food.
https://youtu.be/I4q2auKSP50
 * Work your dog’s brain too! Food puzzles, agility obstacles, scent tracking, tricks like sit up, roll over, play dead, army crawl, spin, fall over, shake a paw etc. help your dog think and have fun too.
 * Keep current on core vaccines of DHPP and rabies

Johanna Driesenga · Answer

Cuddles, attention, playtime, and more cuddles. Treats and toys are great too, but all most dogs want most is lovings. Mine loves to go on adventures too. We take her to the woods, field, and on rides with us, but every now and then she gets to make friends at the park. Sometimes we take her to family farm and home or a pet store so she can pick a new toy or treat herself

This is her with me at therapy:3

Ginger Eaves · Answer

Since I recently lost 2 senior dogs a few months ago that I rescued 14 years ago. They were about 16 with health issues the past 3–4 years. I made sure they had great medical care and took their medication twice a day. They were given massages and belly rubs as well as prescription food and human grade treats. They were not able to walk well, so I took them outside so they could walk around and sniff things and the neighbors’ children could visit with them and pet them. They were gently brushed each week and talked to all day. I gave them the best life I could (according to my vet, they had a wonderful life). Love them like the family they are and get them out of the shelter.

Neetu · Answer

To keep our pet healthy and happy we have to follow certain things such as:-

-We should give proper nutritious food according to the age and breed of our pets which also includes clean and fresh water.

-We should provide daily walk for dogs and play with them and for cats we should give them proper toys to play with.

-Grooming is also very necessary for keeping our pets healthy and happy which includes regular bath,cleaning of ears, trimming of nails, brushing their coat daily .

-Routine checkups is also necessary such as Deworming , vaccination and treatment for prevention from ticks

-Last but not the least spent quality time with your pets so that they can feel your love and affection.