What do dog owners do that make them good owners and help give them healthy happy dogs? I was thinking about this the other day - and there are several things that dog owners can do. Here are 5 very good dog owner habits.

1.  First, good dog owners walk and exercise their dogs. Most dogs love to run and play. It is both a physical and mental release and helps keep them physically strong and emotionally happy.

2.  Yearly check-ups. Ensuring that your dog has yearly check-ups to help identify any medical problems before they become problems is a very good habit. During the yearly exam, your veterinarian will also determine if your dog requires any vaccines, flea control or heartworm preventative medications.  These measures will help to keep your dog healthy and comfortable.

3.  Good daily care. Daily monitoring of your dogs appetite, urinations, bowel movements are a part of be a good responsible dog owner. Healthy dogs have a good appetite, normal urinations, healthy bowel movements and maintain an ideal weight. Any abnormalities should be noted and any persistent changes should be reported to your veterinarian.

4.  Feed a good quality food . Good nutrition is one way a dog owner can proactively make a difference in their dog's health. Over the past two decades, there has been a lot of research and scientific information used to properly formulate dog's foods to optimize health.  

5.  Daily grooming . Monitoring your dogs nails and trim them when needed, brush his teeth at least ever other day and daily brush his hair are important ways to prevent unnecessary problems such as dental disease, torn nails, matting, and needless shedding around your home.

I hope these tips help keep your dog happy and healthy.
Until next time,

Dr. Jon

P.S. Also, another important thing to do to keep your dog healthy is to make sure your dog is identified with a good collar and ID tag! This will help get him back to you if he is ever lost.