5 Ideas To Improve Your Dog’s Mental Health
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”
Having a pet can be plenty of fun, but it’s also a big commitment. You’re responsible for the health and well-being of your dog, and many animals are prone to stress just like we are. To support the mental health of your dog, try these simple ideas.
1 . Trips to the Vet
Mental health issues are sometimes linked to physical health issues, which is why it’s important to take your dog to the vet on a regular basis. It could be that your dog has an underlying physical issue that is causing them pain, or making them feel stressed out. It’s important to take your dog to the vet at least once a year, if they are a puppy they’ll need to go more often. Of course if you suspect your dog is ill, you should take them to the vet right away. Here are a few key signs to look out for:
● Your dog has little appetite or has lost weight.
● You’ve noticed excessive urination.
● They are drinking more water than usual.
● Your dog seems stiff, or is struggling to maintain their energy levels
2. Plenty of Exercise
Like humans dog’s need plenty of exercise, to raise endorphin levels and lift their mood. If your dog experiences anxiety, exercise is particularly important. You should ensure that you take your dog for a walk at least once a day for 20-30mins.
It’s worth noting that some dogs need more exercise than others. You should check how much exercise your dog needs according to their breed, age and physical health.
Remember when you take your dog for a walk you’ll need to invest in a high quality dog collar to ensure that your pooch is safe and comfortable. If you’re looking for new Dog Collars, Dog Friendly Co have some great options, in chafe resistant, soft fabrics.
3. Mental Simulation
Mental simulation can help to improve the mental health of your dog. For example, consider purchasing a puzzle toy for your dog. Puzzles can prevent your dog from
becoming bored, give them a focused task, entertain them, and solve problematic behavior.
Many dog’s love puzzle toys because they can use their problem solving skills and even improve their confidence.
4. The Right Foods
By giving your dog the right foods you can support their mental health. Try feeding your dog fish like sardines or mackerel, these fish contain omega-3 fatty acids which are beneficial for mental and cognitive health.
Another great option is beef liver, it’s a great source of B vitamins which are incredibly important to boost mental health.
Blueberries are a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your dog from free radicals and disease.
5. Train your Doggie
Badly behaved dogs are often unhappy, but unless your dog learns how to behave, it’s difficult for them to understand the problem.
The best thing to do is to train your dog as early as possible. You can hire a dog trainer or train your pup yourself.
There are lots of dog training apps which can help you to train your dog from home.
4. The Right Foods
By giving your dog the right foods you can support their mental health. Try feeding your dog fish like sardines or mackerel, these fish contain omega-3 fatty acids which are
beneficial for mental and cognitive health.
Another great option is beef liver, it’s a great source of B vitamins which are incredibly important to boost mental health. Blueberries are a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your dog from free radicals and disease.
5. Train your Doggie
Badly behaved dogs are often unhappy, but unless your dog learns how to behave, it’s difficult for them to understand the problem. The best thing to do is to train your dog as early as possible. You can hire a dog trainer or train your pup yourself.
There are lots of dog training apps which can help you to train your dog from home.
Using these five ideas you’ll be able to support the mental health of your dog. If your dog seems stressed out, and you’ve tried all these options, consider giving them a massage.
Like humans, dog’s find massages very therapeutic and relaxing. Owning a pet is also beneficial for your own mental health; just one of the great reasons to get a dog!
