This post is sponsored by Wellness and the BlogPawsTM Pet Influencer Network™. I am being compensated to help share the availability of Wellness Products at PetSmart, but we only share information we feel is relevant to our readers. Neither Wellness nor PetSmart is responsible for the content of this article.
He groans when he lies down now. He still goes nuts when we have a package delivered, but afterwards he needs to take a half hour nap. And he can catch a tennis ball mid air, but only ten times in a row instead of twenty. My dog is getting older, but I am determined to keep him healthy for many more years to come.We adopted Griffey from our local animal shelter when he was ten weeks old, and we are so fortunate that he has been the picture of health his entire life. But as he is aging (he turned 8 in August and is officially a canine senior citizen), I am more aware of watching for the signs of wellness in him and am even more committed to keeping him healthy well into his golden years.
5 Signs of a Healthy Dog
There are certain signs that you should look for to know that your dog is healthy, regardless of their age. In a mature dog like Griffey, these signs are even more important. But every dog owner should be aware of these 5 things and how you can help keep your dog healthy too.
Skin and Coat
Clear skin and a shiny coat are obvious signs that your dog is well. A dog's skin shouldn't be flaky or irritated, and excessive scratching or hot spots on the skin may be a sign that something is amiss.
Shedding is normal (especially a Shepherd mix like Griffey) though it varies from dog to dog. If your dog begins to lose more fur than usual or develops bald patches, you may need to consider a diet change or see your veterinarian.
Shedding is normal (especially a Shepherd mix like Griffey) though it varies from dog to dog. If your dog begins to lose more fur than usual or develops bald patches, you may need to consider a diet change or see your veterinarian.
Energy
Griffey is slowing down, but he still has a lot of energy. While your older dog may not be quite as active as he was as a pup, you want to look for any sudden changes in his energy level, especially if he becomes lethargic suddenly. Be sure that your dog's food contains a balanced blend of high quality proteins, grain-free carbohydrates and select fats to help maintain healthy energy levels.
Digestive Health
Digestive issues can be uncomfortable for your dog and a mess for you. Your dog should be eliminating on a regular schedule and their stool should be consistent. If your dog is going much more frequently than usual, straining to go, or you notice a change in their stool, be sure to speak with your veterinarian or consider a diet change. A combination of healthy fiber and probiotics in your dogs' food can help maintain digestive health.
Eyes, Teeth, and Gums
These are all great places to spot check the health of your dog, especially as they age. Making sure their eyes are clear, teeth are clean, and gums are pink and healthy are all great indicators of general wellness.
Immunity
One of the best things that you can do for your dog is maintain regular veterinary care and keep up with their recommended vaccination & parasite treatment schedule. Feeding a high quality dog food will also help boost your pets' immunity provided it includes antioxidant rich fruits, vegetables, and supplements such as Vitamin E.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy
Now that you know what to look for in a healthy dog, how do you protect your dog's well being far into their golden years? Start with regular veterinary care, once a year until the age of seven and then every six months after that (or as recommended by your veterinarian).Give your dog plenty of mental and physical activity. A healthy dog is a happy dog, and our dogs need us to help keep them that way. Exercise - whether through play, walks, or both - is imperative along with our attention. Never underestimate the power of just being there too - cuddles and pets are a must.
And of course, you need to feed a high quality food that supports the 5 signs of wellness. We are really excited to be switching Griffey to Wellness® Complete Health™ to support his needs through better nutrition, with wholesome, natural ingredients. I can feel good about giving him a food with super nutrients that is also made with the highest quality standards.
Wellness at PetSmart
I pick up Griffey's Wellness Complete Health food on my regular trip to PetSmart, where I can get all the essentials for my dogs and my cat. You can find it easily in the dog food section!
By choosing Wellness Complete Health at PetSmart, I know that I am making the right choice to support Griffey's nutritional needs and that I will continue to see the 5 signs of wellness in him for years to come.
Visit PetSmart to check out the extensive Wellness lineup in order to pick the right food for your dog. And be sure to follow Wellness on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for news and updates!