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  1. Healthy Diet: The quality of food you feed your dog matters. Avoid generic meat byproducts, sugars, excess sodium, and unnecessary fillers. Byproducts can actually be very nutritious because they include organ meats. Look for whole ingredients and responsible sourcing practices for your dog food.
  2. Exercise: Exercise is proven to lower stress, increase endorphins, and balance mood and emotions in dogs. Exercise for your dog also helps maintain a healthy weight and muscle mass, and keeps their cardiovascular system in shape.
  3. Mental Stimulation: Dogs thrive on mental stimulation to keep them happy. Keep their mind active with training, play dates, games, and one-on-one attention.
  4. Dental Health: Dental hygiene is an often overlooked aspect of pet care. Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque, gingivitis, and eventually periodontal disease (a bacterial infection of the mouth that has been linked to heart disease and organ damage in dogs). Brush your dog’s teeth regularly, provide safe chew toys and dental treats, and have your vet check their teeth at annual visits to see if they need a dental cleaning.
  5. Doctors Orders: Even if your dog is the picture of health, you should visit the vet at least once a year for a general check-up, and twice a year as they enter old age. Wellness exams are meant to maintain optimal health.
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