Direct, lived experience shared in the dog community has its part to play alongside appropriate advice from Vets and qualified professionals.
From a longer article, I’ve pulled out my highlights while reading a piece written by another dog owner as she reflects on her personal learnings through life with her own dog.
Here’s my top 5 from “10 Things I Wish I’d Known About Dogs.”
Meaning of mucus in dog poop
Observant dog owners are always on the lookout for things that look “wrong”. Mucus in the poop can be one of those worrying things you’re inclined to investigate. Some things are worthy of veterinary investigation. However, less sinister causes could be from a change in diet or discontinuation of certain medicines.
Raw meaty bones for strong jaws and dental health
Supporters of raw bone feeding confirm their experience of cleaner, healthier teeth and gums from the natural gnawing and tearing action on the bone. This can also mean less (or no) teeth cleaning under anaesthetic or avoiding tooth extractions.
Invest early in the value of a good orthopedic bed.
Memory foam and proper structural support can help reduce pressure on joints. It can also help prevent the development of hygromas (fluid-filled sacs) on elbows, etc. Dogs spend the majority of their day sleeping, or in a prone position, and this is one of those things that has great long term benefit for your dog.
Fasting
A fasted dog is not the same as a starving dog. Canine ancestors oscillate between times of feeding and no feeding. They were well equipped to not be in a constantly fed state. Your modern dog retains this ancient ability too. With pet obesity ever-increasing, we must stop equating love for our pup with having a constant supply of food always at hand.
Snuffle mats
Easy to make yourself or there are plenty of off the shelf options too. Hiding treats in here can help stimulate your dog’s brain as the work to retrieve the food. It’s mentally challenging, and there’s a treat reward as well.
The original full article from The Bark expands on these five points and covers other areas such as; puppy schools, environmental chemical reduction, floor feeding or raised bowls and recognising the signs of acid reflux.
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