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One of the best things our dogs do for us on a daily basis is make us happy. It sounds like a simple thing, yet it’s very important for us as pet parents and enriches our lives.
There’s no better feeling than when we open the front door and see our beloved pooches’ excitement permeating just from the wag of their tails. Their love and loyalty for us is unfiltered.
That’s why the least we can do for them is to try to make sure they live comfortable, happier lives. And it doesn’t take much to enhance their lives and make them better. Sometimes all it takes is some simple and easy steps that can ensure they’ll be just as happy as they make us.
Here are six simple ways to improve your dog’s life.
1. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!
Dogs love being active as much as they love their sleep, and if you’re a working pet parent, you know your pup will be doing a lot of sleeping while you’re away.
This leaves them with a lot of pent-up energy towards the end of the day. Taking them out on a brisk walk around your neighborhood or even playing fetch with them at your local dog park will go a long way to making sure your dog is able to expend all that energy.
If you are able, 30 minutes outdoors is a good minimum for your pups to enjoy their exercise.
2. Stop And Smell The Roses
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Sometimes when we take our dogs out on a walk, we often forget that there’s a world around us that they’re curious to explore. You can usually tell how curious they are by the constant activity of their noses tracking all the odors around them.
That’s why it’s nice to stop once and a while and let them sniff their surroundings. Dogs rely on their highly sensitive noses, so it’s good to let them satisfy their curiosity every now and then.
Of course, make sure to pay attention to what they’re sniffing or tracking because you never know what they’ll get their nose into.
3. Feed Them Well
Whether it’s dry kibble, wet food, all organic, or whatever other diet you have for your pup, make sure it’s the best quality of that food.
Every pet parent might have their own philosophy as to what’s the best kind of nutrition to feed their dog. But one thing we can all agree on is that whatever diet or food choice we make for them, we should make sure it’s the best in that class.
If you’re unsure what kind of food your dog should be eating, then you should do some research on their breed. Always consult with their vet if you need help making these kinds of choices.
4. A Clean Dog Is A Happy Dog
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If your dog could make a list of their least favorite things to do, getting groomed might be at the top. And although there are some pups who might not mind it at all, most don’t get overly excited when they see the groomers.
But even with this in mind, grooming is more than just maintaining hygiene — it also contributes to their overall health.
Even something as simple as brushing their coat can eliminate dirt, old hair, and dandruff that might otherwise infest their beds and toys.
5. Give Them A Few Minutes Of Undivided Attention
It’s important to remind our dogs how special they are in our lives. Even though they might not understand the words of endearment we often give them, there are other ways for them to know.
Even taking just 15 minutes out of your day to pet your dog or play tug of war with their toys will do wonders for their happiness and satisfaction. Dogs are naturally social creatures and love to interact with you.
The least we can do is put down whatever it is we’re doing and, for a couple of minutes, give them all the attention in the world.
6. A Routine Is Great For You Pup
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Dogs can easily get anxious when they don’t know what’s going on in their surroundings or if there’s an amount of uncertainty to their day. Our pups are creatures of habit, and they’re also very observant.
Making sure we give them that security of knowing the general time they’ll eat or go outside for a walk is something that will ease that anxiety and fear.
Maintaining a flexible schedule while giving them short activities throughout the day will help keep them from getting bored, as well.
What simple ways do you improve your dog’s life? Do you have any words of wisdom for other dog lovers? Then let us know in the comments below!