The following, simple steps will improve your dog’s quality of life and help prevent future health issues.

1) Nail Care

Have a groomer clip and dremmel the nails (using a grinder to smooth the edges) every 3 weeks.

Each step your dog takes on long nails puts an inappropriate pressure on the toes and makes them twist their backs unnaturally, which hurts.

This causes your dog to compensate by adjusting their posture, which can cause orthopaedic issues like hind-end weakness.

Long nails give your dog less grip on a slippery wood or tile floor, thus increasing the likelihood of muscle strain, especially for older dogs. If you hear the nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim. 

The quick (a nerve inside the nail) grows along with the nail so it will also get too long. If the quick is nicked, it bleeds profusely. Dipping the paw into styptic powder will stop the bleeding.

2) Clinking Tags  

It’s a great idea to have the dog’s name and the owner’s cell number on a tag in case the dog gets lost or escapes the home.

Dogs have acute hearing. The clinking of the tags is not very pleasant for them. Reduce the number of tags by removing the outdated license or rabies tags. Make the remaining ones quieter by putting them in a pouch designed for the collar.

3) Ill-fitting Collars and Harnesses

Contact points of the harness may cause rubbing or pinching depending on how the dog is moving, sitting or lying down. 

Make sure the harness fits perfectly and that the collar is not too tight around the neck. You should be able to put two fingers inside the collar or harness. Check and adjust the fit weekly, especially for a growing puppy. 

Remove the harness after a walk or training session. Put your dog to bed without a collar or harness to give them a comfortable, safe sleep.

4) Minor Skin, Coat or Ear Issues 

Whether it be a burr, a cut, a sore or an infection, the sooner you detect it, the easier it is to treat. This will prevent undue pain, suffering and a hefty vet bill.

A weekly exam ensures your dog is not suffering in silence.

5) Neglected Teeth 

Dental problems cause daily discomfort, bad breath and long-term health effects like endocarditis (chronic buildup of dental calculus). This can cause a dog to become cranky, anti-social or reactive. 

Getting your puppy used to daily teeth brushing at a young age, helps prevent plaque buildup. Chew bones do not remove calculus, especially below the gum line.