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Hygiene for Dogs

Submitted by Michael Adams on March 10, 2010

Our four legged companions are unrivaled in their loyalty and friendship to us. When you own a dog, it is your responsibility to take proper care of it. Before bringing a dog into your life, you have to get ready for the unbinding commitment that dog ownership entails.

If you already have a four-legged companion you need to fulfill all the obligations that being a dog owner brings. Ensuring proper nutrition for dogs and maintaining proper hygiene is of the utmost importance. Here are some tips on nutrition and hygiene for dogs that you should follow to help your dog stay fit and happy.

•   You should bathe your dog at least once a week to get rid of any fowl smells and to keep its coat clean. Bathing your own dog is a good bonding experience as they appreciate the contact and attention they get from their owner. Use dog shampoo and gently lather it on your dog after wetting its coat. Once you are done, dry your dog with a towel and also let it shake the excess water. Take care not to get water into its ears.

•   You must clean your dog's bedding regularly as this will help it stay fresh and keep fleas away. Seek a vet’s advice on how to keep your dog, its bedding, and your home free from parasites.

•   You must clean your dog’s ears regularly as they attract ear mites. If left unnoticed, the mites get larger and a dirty black substance forms in your dog’s ear which leads to earaches and infections. Dip a q-tip in ear cleaning solution and gently swap both the ears.

•   Take care of oral hygiene in your dog by brushing its teeth regularly. Don’t forget to brush the back of the teeth and use small circular movements for the front teeth. This is important so as to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

•   You must keep your dog's nails short. This will keep it comfortable and prevent injury to its feet. You should get your dog’s nail trimmed on a regular basis.

•   You must ensure that your dog exercises regularly. Take your dog for walks, run around in the yard, or play with a ball. This is not only good for its physical health but will also prevent behavioral problems.

•   You must take into account your dog's age, breed, size, and activity before giving any food. You must provide daily amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. These are essential to keep your dog healthy and happy. You must provide supplements to the dogs that are lactating or are pregnant.

•   Keep a clean supply of water for your dogs as it is the most important of all the nutrients.

•   Take your dog to the vet at least once a year for a complete physical examination.

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