One-On-One Playtime

Spoiling our dogs with an assortment of toys can be tempting and fun, but it's essential to remember that our furry companions crave more than just material possessions. Dogs are social animals that thrive on interaction, love, and connection. So, while stocking up on toys for your pup is fantastic and can provide mental and physical stimulation, don't forget the most crucial component: your time and attention. Engaging in interactive playtime with your dog not only strengthens the bond you share but also enriches their life in countless ways.

As one vet explained, playing with your dog "establishes a connection and is cheaper than bunch of fancy products that you toss to them and hope they are enthralled."

Make Time For Your Dog

It may seem obvious, but one of the best things you can do for your pup is to simply merge your lives together as much as possible. Remember, you are your dog's whole world, which means you're also typically their only outlet for activity and happiness. So, make them a priority where you can.

"We're all so busy, it's so easy to make them an afterthought," one vet explained.

They go on to recommend making time for your dog. Play hide and go seek with them, sit beside them while you're watching TV and pet them... Gestures like this may seem small to us, but they mean the world to your beloved pup.

Avoid Overfeeding

Avoiding overfeeding is one of the most important responsibilities of a dog parent. While those soulful eyes may be hard to resist, overfeeding can lead to a myriad of health issues for your beloved furry friend. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for their overall well-being and longevity.

"People tend to think their dog is overweight because they don't get enough exercise," one veterinarian explained. "But honestly, it's easier to lose weight by not eating too many calories."

Don't Skip Grooming Your Dog

Regularly brushing your dog isn't just about maintaining their appearance; it's a crucial aspect of responsible pet care. Beyond the obvious benefits of reducing shedding and keeping their coat clean and tangle-free, it's also an opportunity to bond with your pet and monitor their overall health. During brushing sessions, you can check for ticks, fleas, lumps, or any unusual changes in their skin or fur.  

Additionally, veterinarians recommended owners make sure they're getting their dog's nails clipped on a regular basis to avoid the nails becoming too overgrown and giving the dog mobility issues.

Pay Attention To What Your Dog Is Telling You

One of the biggest mistakes we can make as pet parents is to ignore or overlook the signs our dogs give us to say something is wrong. If you notice something is off about your dog, whether a big difference or just something small and seemingly insignificant, don't sit around and wait for it to become a serious problem before consulting an expert.

"Go to your vet," one pet health expert recommended. "Many animals are extremely good at hiding severe pain and illness. If you notice anything off, go to the vet."

"Owners will beat themselves up when things have gone too far, and there's not much that can be done, but they didn't know how to look," another added.