Keeping your puppy in shape is important for their health and wellness. You must allow your canine friend to engage in habits and activities that will allow them to be in good shape. When you embark on this new routine, the results will be noticeable within the first few weeks. Your dog will be positively engaged, and destructive activities, such as chewing shoes, needless barking, and digging holes will stop.
Although the most visible sign of your dog not being in shape is when they are overweight, other underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer, may show up later. Here are five ways to ensure your puppy is in shape:
1. Healthy Dog Food
Dogs do not just get out of shape overnight. The kind of food they are fed contributes more significantly to their overall physical shape. The type and amount of food you give your dog can increase their weight more than you can imagine. Avoid dog foods that can cause weight gain or increase the level of fat in your dog’s body. Also, you must find a balance between the amount of food you give your dog and the level of activities.
2. Give Healthier Treats
Having reviewed the type and amount of food you give your dog, you must also check the treats you give to them. Giving dog treats that are high in calories and fat to your canine companion can cause weight gain. Consider giving healthy treats to your dog. Replace fatty and high-calorie treats with fresh fruits and veggies. Over time, your dog will be healthier and stay in shape.
3. Exercise
To keep your puppy in shape, you need to encourage exercises, such as swimming, running, playing fetch, and hiking. Regular exercises are needed to help your puppy lose weight and stay in shape. Give your pet opportunities to stretch their legs, run around, jump, and stay happy. If you are too busy to exercise your dog, you can hire someone to do that for you.
4. Adequate Rest
You must allow your puppy to rest adequately. Dogs usually do not know when to stop when they are having fun, and they might stay up throughout the night if they are allowed. Ensure that you let your pet rest adequately to stay in shape and remain healthy.
5. Dog Grooming Services
Another important way to ensure that your puppy is in shape is to get professional dog grooming services. Although you can groom your puppy at home, hiring professionals to groom your puppy is advised to get the best results possible. From brushing out matted coats, bathing, nail trimming, teeth brushing, and lots more, your dog will receive adequate care that will make them beautiful and healthy.