You’ve just adopted a dog, and you’re eager to provide the best care possible. From nutrition and weight management to dental, joint, and parasite prevention, here are key tips to keep your pup happy, healthy, and thriving in their new home.
1. Make a Nutrition Plan for Your Dog
Malnutrition is one of the most common issues veterinarians diagnose, and it often stems from feeding the wrong diet. Work with your vet to choose the right food based on your dog’s age, breed, and overall health.
- Healthy dogs usually don’t need supplements if eating a balanced diet.
- Dogs with special needs (joint issues, kidney or heart disease) may require supplements or prescription diets.
- Always check with your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s nutrition plan.
2. Keep Your Pup at a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is critical for your dog’s long-term health. This is measured using body condition scoring (BCS):
- If you can feel your dog’s ribs easily (without pressing), that’s ideal.
- If ribs are hard to feel, your pup may be overweight.
- If ribs are very pronounced, your pup may be underweight.
Extra weight puts unnecessary stress on joints and organs, leading to arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems. Ask your vet to assess your dog’s BCS and recommend adjustments if needed.
3. How to Maintain General Health
Dental Health
Oral care is often overlooked, but it’s vital. Bacteria in the mouth can spread through the bloodstream and damage organs such as the heart and kidneys.
- Brush your dog’s teeth daily.
- Ask your vet for the safest brushing techniques and products.
Joint Health
As dogs age, joint wear and tear can cause stiffness and lameness. Preventive care and adjustments help maintain mobility.
- Keep your pup at a healthy weight to reduce strain.
- Adjust exercise to their ability—shorter walks, ramps instead of stairs, and swimming for low-impact activity.
- Consider joint supplements recommended by your vet.
Flea and Tick Prevention
Fleas and ticks spread diseases harmful to both pets and humans. Prevention is key:
- Use vet-recommended flea and tick control year-round or seasonally.
- Apply treatments consistently as directed.
Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm, transmitted by mosquitoes, can affect both indoor and outdoor dogs. Prevention is far easier than treatment.
- Monthly heartworm preventatives are available through your vet.
- Consistent use ensures year-round protection.
Caring for your new dog means paying attention to nutrition, weight, dental health, joint care, and parasite prevention. With regular vet guidance and proactive care at home, you’ll set your pup up for a long, happy, and healthy life.
