Expert tips and tricks to help your dog live longer.
Welcome fellow dog lovers! As devoted pet parents, we all share a common desire: to see our furry friends wagging their tails happily for as long as possible.
While we can't stop time, there are plenty of steps we can take to help our beloved pups live longer, healthier lives.
Breed type and genetics play a role there are many more factors involved in a dog's lifespan such as dietary, lifestyle and maintenance. We all need some maintenance and care, our pets are no exception.
So, grab a treats (for both you and your pup) and let's dive into some pawsitively good tips on extending your dog's lifespan!
The average lifespan of dogs is between 10 to 14 years, but they have the potential to live much longer.
Tips to Help your Dog Live Longer
Humans, on average, are living longer lives, according to a lot of articles and reports.
Can we say the same for dogs? It’s a little harder to gauge in dogs, since dogs have such different lifespans based on their size.
A larger dog has a shorter life expectancy. Large dogs live to be about 9 years old, whereas medium and small dogs live to be at least 12.
Toy dogs live the longest living up to 15 years or older.
But most experts seem to agree that dogs are living longer, to the point they're living twice as long as they did 40 years ago.
Advances in veterinary medicine and a better understanding of dog's nutritional requirements have helped extend the lives of our four-legged friends.
Quality Nutrition
Just like us, what our dog's eat plays a vital role in their overall healthy and longevity to help our dog live longer.
Providing a balanced diet tailored to your dog's age, size, and activity level is essential.
Opt for a high-quality dog food that is rich in nutrients and free from fillers and artificial ingredients.
Dogs that eat less live longer. A 2011 study found that dogs given 25% fewer calories than “normal” diet lived two years longer on average than dogs fed more.
You should consult your vet before reducing your dog’s caloric intake, but this data supports common sense knowing that a puppy with a healthy weight will live a longer life. Obese dogs have a higher chance of getting heart disease and joint problems.
The food your dog eats also matters. Always research labels. Avoid “meat byproducts,” sugar, excess sodium, and unnecessary fillers. Look for whole ingredients and responsible sourcing practices from your dog food health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is a major concern for dogs and can lead to a variety of health problems, including joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease.
It's so easy to let your dog get overfed. When he looks at you with those sad, soulful eyes, begging for just a little snack, it’s hard to turn him down.
However, if you give your dog too many treats or the wrong food, the pounds will start creeping on.
Overweight or obese dogs have higher risks of heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and even cancer.
It can go a long way towards keeping your dog at his best weight and health if you feed him the right food for his age, activity level, breed, and any health issues.
Exercise Your Dog Daily
A tired dog is a happy dog, and regular exercise is key to keeping your pup in tti-top shape.
Aim for daily walks, play sessions, or fun activities like hiking or swimming to keep your dog's body and mind active.
Not only does exercise help maintain a healthy weight, but it also strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and promotes mental stimulation.
Dogs need 30 minutes of exercise a day, but whether they get more or less depends on their age and overall health. It will keep him lean, tone his muscles, and keep his mind stimulated.
Mental Stimulation
A bored dog can develop behavioral issues and even depression, so it's essential to keep your pup mentally stimulated.
Engage your dog's mind with puzzle toys, interactive games, or training sessions.
Teaching new tricks not only provides mental exercise, but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.
Filter your Dog's Water
Have you ever considered what's in the water your dog drinks?
Tap water and many bottled waters contain contaminants you can get rid of with a water filter. Cysts, heavy metals, chlorine and pharmaceuticals are common contaminants in water.
These contaminants can affect your do’s skin, coat, and overall health.
By filtering water, you can help your dog live a longer life.
Keep your dog’s water in a stainless steel or glass bowl. Plastics can leach into your dog's water, so you should avoid them.
Limit Chemicals on your Dog
Longevity for dog’s is all about toxic load. Toxic load can be explained by the amount of toxins you put in your dog’s body and how your dog’s body processes those toxins. It’s the same concept for humans.
Whenever you put medicine or products on your dog, think about what they make it with.
For example, when you wash your pup, use a natural plant based shampoo that's free of sulfites and heavy chemicals.
Add Enzymes and Probiotics
Enzymes are fundamental to proper digestion.
If you give your dog dry or canned dog food, it's essential to give them digestive enzymes.
Enzymes aren't found in commercial dog food because the extruding and cooking process destroys them.
Your dog's stomach is built to break down raw food that's high in enzymes. Probiotics are an excellent way’ to help stomach bacteria levels.
Proper gut bacteria lead to a strong immune system and good digestion.
Gut health for dog’s is directly related to overall health, just like it is for us.
It’s never too late for an old dog to learn new tricks: Try agility or lure coursing.
Give Your Dog Food Puzzles
Speaking of minds, dogs need to stay active, too.
Dogs are intelligent animals that love to solve problems.
Toys with food in them can keep your dog younger, more alert, and less bored.
And a bored dog can be destructive. Just make sure you consider the extra calories from those treats when you are deciding how much to feed him for dinner.
Brush your Dog's Teeth
Dental health is a neglected part of pet care.
Many people, myself included, forget to brush their dogs' teeth.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque, gingivitis, and finally periodontal disease, a bacterial infection that's harmful to dogs' hearts and organs.
You should brush your dog's teeth daily, or at least several times a week. There's a lot of dog toothbrushes to choose from.
Some treats keep teeth clean as well.
Good oral health keeps your dog healthy.
Maintain Routine Vet Visits
Just like we visit the doctor for regular check-ups, our dog's need routine veterinary care to stay healthy.
Schedule annual wellness exams, keep up with vaccinations and don't forget about dental health.
Dental disease can lead to a serious health issues, so regular teeth brushing and professional cleanings are essential.
Early detection of any health issues can make significant difference in your dog's quality of life.
Keeping up with preventative care will make sure that your dog lives a long, healthy life.
Spay or Neuter your Dog
Spaying your dog by removing hormones prevents diseases. Unless you want your dog to have puppies, spaying or neutering, your pet is healthier and safer.
If you get your dog fixed, it won't suffer the hormonal fluctuations and stress that comes with being a dog. Removing that stress makes them healthier longer.
Provide Plenty of Love and Attention
Last but certainly not least, shower your dog with love and attention!
Dog's thrive on companionship and affection, so make sure to spend quality time with your furry friend every day.
Whether it's cuddling on the couch, going for a hike, or simply playing fetch in the backyard, the time you invest in your dog's happiness and well-being is priceless.
Final Thoughts on Helping your Dog Live Longer
Our dog's bring so much joy and love into our lives, and it's only natural to want to return the favor by helping them live longer, healthier lives.
By prioritizing quality nutrition, regular exercise, routine veterinary care, mental stimulation, maintaining a healthy weight, and of course, plenty of love and attention, you can give your dog the best chance at a long and happy life by your side.
So here's to many more years of tail wags, wet kisses, and unforgettable memories with our beloved canine companions!
Terri says
Excellent tips to help your dog live a longer life. I brush my dog's, Henry's teeth daily. I can certainly tell the difference on days that he gets a good walk or exercise in and those days when he doesn't. It's sort of like how dog parent's bodies act too. It's good for them and good for us.
I'm sharing this article with my dog friends.