The key to a strong and healthy Golden Retriever dog is building a strong immune system that will repel illness and disease. There is more than one way to build up your dog’s immune system, but basically it all adds up to what you feed him. Responsible pet owners will want a dog in top shape, enjoying all the benefits that good health has to offer. Here are some guidelines to get you on the road of a stronger immune system for your dog.
Consider feeding your retriever a homemade meal. This can act as a substitute for your regular canned food, or as a complement to be mixed together. Food cooked at home taste a lot better than the one that comes in a bag or a can, plus it contains a lot of vitamins and essential nutrients. Be prepared for the fact that once you have placed your dog in a homemade food diet, it is unlikely he will ever want a taste of the old dry food. Complement his meals with natural spring water. Even if he seems to prefer, or has grown accustomed to the faucet water, spring water is a lot better for him health wise.
When feeding your dog treats, choose to give him bones with plenty of meat in the marrow, so as to motivate him to chew on it and serve as a vehicle to clean and improve his teeth. Keeping proper hygiene in the mouth is very important for the Golden Retriever breed. Including a bone a day in his diet will ensure healthier and cleaner teeth, with less need on your part to have to clean them manually with a tooth brush. You can also mix this activity with playing dog games. For example, provide your dog with chewing toy available at retail store in many forms and shapes. These will not only keep his teeth clean, but also provide good exercise for improving jaw strength, all while having fun playing dog games with his toy.
Give yourself an edge in the race towards better health by doing a little bit of research on illnesses that may affect your dog. You’ll be one step ahead when consulting your veterinarian and learning about any type of ailment threatening your dog’s health. In the event that your vet where to diagnose a problem with your dog, it would help you to know a little bit about what he’s talking about in order to better defend yourself against disease.
Consider whether or not you will be involving your pet retriever in reproductive activities. Reproductive problems are common in Golden Retriever dogs. If you are not planning to breed your dog, consider having him neutered or spayed.
Pet owners who decide to watch the health of their dog closely are likely to live a healthy life, with less grievance and painful diseases. Some exercise, a good home cooked diet and an occasional visit to the veterinarian will ensure that your dog grows up healthy and strong. His physical health will pose a better defense against illness than the average dog, less time at the clinic and fewer medical bills.