Healthy Dog, Happy Dog: Help Your Dog Live Longer

Health and hygiene go hand in hand. For our family, our dogs, it’s important to care for both to ensure they live long, healthy lives. How can you help your dog live longer? Continue reading for our expert advice to help extend your dog’s life.

Good Clean Fun

Cleanliness is next to godliness for dogs, too. Routine bathing, brushing, ear cleaning and tooth brushing are necessary to prevent illnesses and infections. By keeping your dog clean inside out, you help reduce the risk of skin infections, ear infections and other health issues.

A clean coat not only looks nicer but is also a sign of a healthy dog. Regular brushing removes loose hair, dirt, and dander, promoting better air circulation and reducing the likelihood of skin problems. It also stimulates the production of natural oils that keep your dog's skin moisturized and coat glossy. Healthy skin and fur lead to overall well-being and comfort.

During this time, take the opportunity to inspect your dog's body closely. This hands-on approach allows you to identify any unusual lumps, bumps, or changes in their skin or coat. Early detection of such issues can lead to prompt medical attention, potentially saving your dog from serious health problems down the line.

Clean Teeth Club

Don't neglect your dog's oral hygiene. Just like for humans, poor dental health can lead to a range of health issues for dogs. Regular teeth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can prevent tartar buildup, gum disease, and potential complications that can affect other organs, including their heart.

Healthy Body and Mind

Maintaining your dog's hygiene is not just about their physical health; it's also about their mental well-being. Regular sessions provide bonding time between you and your pet. Dogs enjoy attention and touch, which can lower their stress and anxiety. A happy dog is more likely to live a longer and fulfilling life.

Stick to a Routine

Establishing a regular hygiene routine is key to reaping these benefits. Decide on a schedule based on your dog's breed and activity level. Brush their coat regularly to prevent tangles and matting. Trim their nails to prevent discomfort and potential injuries. Remember to clean their ears, brush their teeth, and provide them with a clean, comfortable living environment.

Keeping up with your dog's hygiene isn't just a matter of looks or aesthetics; it directly impacts their overall health and longevity and can help your furry friend live a longer, healthier, and happier life by your side. 

Extending Your Dog's Lifespan through Proper Hygiene Care

We all want our furry companions to lead long, healthy lives by our side. One often overlooked yet essential aspect of achieving this goal is maintaining your dog's hygiene. The connection between good hygiene and a longer, happier life for your canine friend is undeniable. Let's explore how giving your dog the gift of proper hygiene can significantly impact their well-being and lifespan.

Preventing Infections and Illnesses

Regular grooming practices, such as bathing, brushing, and ear cleaning, are more than just cosmetic rituals. They are vital in preventing infections and illnesses. Dirt, debris, and excess moisture can create an ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi. By keeping your dog clean, you reduce the risk of skin infections, ear infections, and other health issues.

Healthy Skin and Coat

A clean coat not only looks appealing but also indicates a healthy dog. Regular brushing removes loose hair, dirt, and dander, promoting better air circulation and reducing the likelihood of skin problems. Additionally, proper grooming stimulates the production of natural oils that keep your dog's skin moisturized and coat glossy. Healthy skin and fur contribute to overall well-being and comfort.

Dental Health Matters

Don't neglect your dog's oral hygiene. Just like in humans, poor dental health can lead to a range of health issues for dogs. Regular teeth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can prevent tartar buildup, gum disease, and potential complications that can affect other organs, including the heart.

Early Detection of Health Issues

During grooming sessions, take the opportunity to inspect your dog's body closely. This hands-on approach allows you to identify any unusual lumps, bumps, or changes in their skin or coat. Early detection of such issues can lead to prompt medical attention, potentially saving your dog from serious health problems down the line.

Positive Mental Health

Maintaining your dog's hygiene is not just about physical health; it's also about mental well-being. Regular grooming sessions provide bonding time between you and your pet. Dogs enjoy the attention and touch, which can reduce stress and anxiety. A happy dog is more likely to live a longer and fulfilling life.

Creating a Hygiene Routine

Establishing a regular hygiene routine is key to reaping these benefits. Determine a bathing schedule based on your dog's breed and activity level. Brush their coat regularly to prevent tangles and matting. Trim their nails to prevent discomfort and potential injuries. Remember to clean their ears, brush their teeth, and provide them with a clean, comfortable living environment.

In conclusion, maintaining your dog's hygiene isn't just a matter of aesthetics; it directly impacts their overall health and longevity. By incorporating proper grooming practices into your pet care routine, you can help your furry friend live a longer, healthier, and happier life by your side.

Dr. Jim MacLean, Chief Veterinarian

Dr. MacLean’s first job was working as a grooming assistant when he was 15 years old. Since then, he has worked in every aspect of small animal veterinary hospitals, has practiced in small animal medicine and surgery for 26 years, and has owned and started multi-doctor veterinary hospitals.

With a mind for both medicine and business, Jim received his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from VMRCVM at Virginia Tech in 1994 and his MBA from Georgetown University in 2011.

Coming full circle, he joined the Scenthound pack to bring his expertise and experience to the grooming world. As chief veterinarian, Dr. MacLean guides Scenthound from a health and medicine perspective and helps achieve our mission to improve overall pet health on a broader scale.

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