Whether you are a new dog owner, or you have had canines and are looking for tips, it is vital that you pay attention to your furry friend's needs, and keep them as healthy as possible. Here are some ways that you can ensure your dog has a quality life.

Find the Right Food

If you are just getting a dog or you think that your pet needs a change in food for health issues, you should do extensive research on which type and brand of food is best for your dog's requirements. For example, there are many formulas that are specifically designed for puppies or seniors, which contain essential nutrients that they need in these age groups. You should also read labels carefully, to ensure that the food only contains pure ingredients, and does not have fillers such as meat byproduct. Pets are considered family, more often than not, and so you should make sure that you are feeding them only the best for their health and well being. 

Use Essential Oils

Essential oils are not just for humans to use. There are many types of oils that are completely safe to diffuse around your pet, to ensure that they are feeling the effects as well. For ultimate security, be sure to use a reputable, therapeutic grade brand, such as Young Living Essential Oils, so that you do not have to worry about oils that contain harmful ingredients. Some examples of oils that are safe to use and diffuse around dogs include lavender, which can be calming, copaiba, which has been shown to support a variety of bodily systems in pets and humans, and peppermint, which can be beneficial for joint pain. 

Exercise Them Daily

One of the biggest responsibilities of having a dog is taking them out for walks on a regular basis. Especially if you and your family are gone for a significant part of the day, you will need to make time in your schedule to walk your dog. Even twenty minutes to half an hour is enough time for your dog to stretch its legs, get needed exercise, and explore new boundaries. If you have children, you can assign them to walk the dog as one of their chores, which can allow them to get a workout, as well as teach them the responsibility of taking care of an animal.

Bathe and Groom on a Schedule

Although the specifics of grooming is highly dependent on the breed of your dog, in general, you should set a schedule for when they need to be bathed and groomed or trimmed. For instance, if you have poodles or long haired canines, then you will need to get them trimmed and washed at least once a month. Groomers are also important because they perform functions such as clipping your dog's nails and expressing their anal glands, which will prevent infection or discomfort. If you have a short haired breed, you can simply bathe them in the tub with a good dog shampoo.

Ensure They are Always Hydrated

Dogs require plenty of water, as they are incredibly active creatures. Notably during the months where temperatures rise, or if you live in an area that consistently has warm weather, you should keep an eye out on your pet for signs of dehydration. Some of the classic signs that your dog is not drinking enough water are a dry and warm nose, panting for long periods of time, or simply fatigue. You can incentivize your dog to stay hydrated when it is not by adding frozen chicken broth to their water bowl, or other tactics. 

When you are responsible for a dog, you should not have to worry about whether or not your pet is feeling at its best. With these tips, you are sure to be able to have a pet that is healthy and will enjoy spending time with you and your family.