When owning a dog, you will find out many things go into determining whether it is healthy. It is not just the love and care you give it that will determine its overall health. There is more to it than just that. Let’s look at what makes for a healthy dog.

Photo: racineur

 
Breeding is Part of Having a Healthy Dog
 
The right breeding is part of having a healthy even before it is born. Being careful as to what bloodlines are mixed together in a breed will determine whether a puppy is born to be healthy or is will have health problems. If you keep breeding dogs which ancestors had epilepsy you could hand it down from generation to generation, for example. However, if you breed only two healthy dogs together that have little history of any genetic diseases than you create a healthier pup. This is why it is important to talk to the breeder before buying your dog to see what the health history is behind it.
 
Veterinarian Checkups
 
Make sure your dog goes for regular checkups with the veterinarian. This way he can spot any problems before they become major issues. Also the dog will need certain vaccines to ensure its health. These checkups should start happening when they are just a few weeks old in fact.
 
Feeding and Caring for Your Dog
 
Feeding your dog the right dog food and making sure it has water everyday will help it grow to be strong and healthy. The veterinarian will advise you as to which is the correct food for your particular dog and the amount you should feed it each day.
 
Your dog needs exercise to be healthy too. It does not matter whether it is a walk, run or playing a game of fetch for this physical activity as long as the dog gets to do it each day. This exercise makes for a strong heart, muscles and bones.
 
Grooming is also needed to ensure your dog’s overall health. Brushing and maintaining the dog’s coat also helps the skin be healthy. Also the ears need to be checked for any sign of infection or other problems. The outside part of it can be gently wiped off. Water should not be allowed to get into the dog’s ear because this is what can lead to an infection setting up.
 
Surroundings
 
The dog’s surroundings should be clean. If the dog is allowed to live in a filthy environment it can become sickly. Also there are certain plants that can harm your dog if eaten these should be kept away from it. It should only play with safe dog toys that are meant for pooches and not kids. Dog toys are made using materials proven safe for dogs.
 

You can see from the above information what goes into having a physically-healthy dog. One last thing though ensures your dog being emotionally happy and that is your love. Show your dog you love it with all the physical care we have talked about, but also pet and lavish the dog with attention. All of it works together to make sure your dog will be with you for many years.Information written by Steve Hendrix of www.ohmydogsupplies.com, check out our complete collection of dog grooming supplies online.