All CategoriesDogsDog Healthcare: Keeping Your Pup Happy & Healthy
Ensuring your dog’s health is one of the most important responsibilities of pet ownership. A happy, healthy dog enjoys a longer, more active life, and with the right care, you can prevent common health issues and keep your furry friend thriving.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from preventative healthcare and nutrition to common illnesses and when to seek professional help.
Preventative Healthcare for Dogs
The best way to keep your dog in top shape is to prevent health problems before they start. Here’s how:
🐶 Vaccinations & Routine Vet Check-Ups
Regular vet visits are essential for keeping your dog healthy. Your vet will:
✔️ Administer essential vaccinations (such as those for parvovirus, distemper, and leptospirosis).
✔️ Check for early signs of illness through routine exams.
✔️ Offer parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and worms.
How often? Puppies need several vaccines in their first year, while adult dogs require annual boosters. Always follow your vet’s recommended vaccination schedule.
🐾 Flea, Tick & Worm Prevention
Parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Prevention is easier and cheaper than dealing with an infestation.
✔️ Fleas & Ticks – Use spot-on treatments, collars, or tablets regularly.
✔️ Worms – Treat your dog for worms every 1-3 months depending on risk factors.
✔️ Check regularly – Look for signs of itching, hair loss, or tiny black specks (flea dirt) in your dog’s fur.
🦷 Dental Care
Good oral health is often overlooked but plays a huge role in your dog’s overall well-being.
✔️ Brush your dog’s teeth a few times a week with dog-friendly toothpaste.
✔️ Use dental treats or chews to help reduce plaque.
✔️ Schedule professional cleanings if needed.
Dental problems can lead to pain, infections, and difficulty eating, so keeping those pearly whites clean is a must!
Dog Nutrition: Feeding for Health
A balanced diet is key to keeping your dog fit, energetic, and at a healthy weight.
🥩 What Should Dogs Eat?
✔️ High-quality dog food – Look for complete and balanced food with high protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
✔️ Fresh water – Always ensure your dog has access to clean drinking water.
✔️ Treats in moderation – Too many treats can lead to obesity, so limit them to 10% of daily calorie intake.
At Homefeeds, our pet nutritionists can help you choose the best food for your dog’s needs. Whether your dog requires a specific diet due to allergies, weight management, or breed-specific needs, we’re here to offer expert advice!
⚠️ Foods to Avoid
Some human foods are toxic to dogs. Keep these far away from your pup:
🚫 Chocolate
🚫 Grapes & raisins
🚫 Onions & garlic
🚫 Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and sweets)
🚫 Cooked bones (they can splinter and cause harm)
Common Dog Health Issues & Warning Signs
Even with the best care, dogs can sometimes fall ill. Knowing the early signs of health problems can help you seek treatment before issues become severe.
🐕 Obesity
Overweight dogs are at risk for diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease.
Signs: Difficulty walking, low energy, trouble breathing.
Prevention: Provide a balanced diet and regular exercise.
🤧 Allergies
Dogs can develop allergies to food, pollen, dust, or fleas.
Signs: Itchy skin, ear infections, excessive licking, or stomach issues.
Management: Identify and remove the allergen, switch to hypoallergenic food, and consult a pet nutritionist at Homefeeds for dietary advice.
💨 Digestive Issues
Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation can be signs of dietary issues, infections, or more serious conditions.
When to worry? If symptoms last more than 24 hours, or if your dog is lethargic, seek veterinary advice.
🐾 Joint Problems & Arthritis
Large breeds and senior dogs are prone to arthritis.
Signs: Stiffness, limping, difficulty standing up.
Support: Provide joint supplements, orthopedic bedding, and gentle exercise.
💔 Heart Disease
Some breeds are more prone to heart issues.
Signs: Coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue.
Prevention: Maintain a healthy weight and visit the vet for heart check-ups.
Exercise & Mental Stimulation for a Healthy Dog
Regular exercise keeps dogs fit physically and mentally.
🏃♂️ Physical Exercise
✔️ Daily walks (30-60 minutes depending on breed).
✔️ Playtime – Fetch, tug-of-war, or running off-leash in safe areas.
✔️ Swimming or agility training for high-energy dogs.
🧠 Mental Stimulation
A bored dog is more likely to develop anxiety or destructive behaviors. Keep their mind engaged with:
✔️ Puzzle toys
✔️ Training sessions
✔️ Scent work games
✔️ Social interaction with other dogs
Looking for the perfect place to exercise and train your dog?
At Homefeeds, we’ve built a purpose-built, all-weather private hire dog arena called Happy Paws Train & Play!
🐾 Happy Paws Train & Play is a secure, spacious dog arena with agility equipment, play areas, and undercover seating for owners.
📍 Price: £15 for up to 4 dogs per 50-minute session. Additional dogs £5 each (max 8 per booking).
This is the perfect place to train, socialize, and play with your pup in a safe, enclosed environment!
Click here to learn more about Happy Paws Train & Play
A Happy, Healthy Dog Starts with You
Your dog’s health is in your hands, and with the right care, they’ll enjoy a long and happy life.
✔️ Keep up with vaccinations & parasite prevention
✔️ Provide a balanced diet tailored to their needs (ask our nutritionists for advice!)
✔️ Maintain regular grooming & dental care
✔️ Watch for signs of illness and seek help early
✔️ Keep them active & mentally engaged with walks, games, and training
🐶💙 Looking for expert nutrition advice, top-quality pet food, or a fun training space? Visit Homefeeds today—we’re here to help you and your pup every step of the way!
Author – Jordan
