Puppies in the wild
Daily routine and care for healthy living
An ideal day balances physical activity, mental stimulation, rest and relationship time.
Keeping fixed times for needs and meals is crucial.
Meals: Always offer food at the same time and in a quiet place. This helps digestion and prevents food-related anxiety problems.
Needs Outings: The first outing should be immediately upon waking. Repeat the outings at regular intervals during the day and always before bedtime. If you have a garden, he will be able to do his business without the need to take him to the street, but you should not forget to take him out of the house to stimulate him.
Rest: An adult dog needs to sleep and rest as much as 14-16 hours a day. Make sure he has a quiet, comfortable space (a kennel or pillow) where he will not be disturbed.
A “walk on the fly” for needs is not enough; the dog needs to explore and use his mind.
Quality Walks: Plan for at least two meaningful walks per day (in addition to outings for needs), ideally one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon/evening. Walks should last at least 20-30 minutes (or longer depending on breed and age) and include:
Olfactory Activity: Allow him to sniff freely; it is one of the most important forms of mental stimulation.
Movement: Not only walking, but also running, playing or exploring in different contexts.
Mental activity: It is as essential as exercise to prevent boredom and improve balance.
Mental Activation Games: Use interactive games or olfactory mats to make them search for food.
Short Training Sessions: Dedicate a brief moment each day to review or learn new commands or tricks.
Active Play: Playing with you (fetch, tug and pull, etc.) strengthens your bond.
Contact and Calm: Start the day with a kind gesture, a caress or a word. Dedicate moments of shared calm (cuddling on the couch, simply being close) to build a deep bond and instill confidence.
Observation: Get used to observing his body and behavior during quiet times. Stroking him allows you to notice lumps, irritations, parasites or sore areas in good time . WORRY IF YOU SEE HIM ABJECT AND DIFFERENT THAN USUAL! Talk to your veterinarian about it.
Essential Health Care
In addition to a daily routine, healthy living relies on constant and preventive care.
1. Veterinary Prevention.
Regular Visits: Your veterinarian is your primary ally. Schedule regular checkups (at least once a year) for thorough checks and preventive screenings.
Vaccinations: Follow your veterinarian’s recommended vaccination protocol, including annual booster shots, to protect against potentially fatal diseases.
Parasite Control: Keep up-to-date on parasite treatments (against fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and worms) as directed by your veterinarian, especially before travel or during hot weather.
2. Hygiene and Grooming
Dental Hygiene: Dental care is essential for overall health. Get him used to having his teeth brushed with specific products or use appropriate dental snacks and toys. Schedule regular dental checkups with your veterinarian.
Hair and Skin Care:
Brushing: Brush regularly to remove dead hair, prevent knots and stimulate circulation. The frequency depends on the type of hair.
Bath: Use only shampoos specifically for dogs, never human products that might irritate the skin.
Nails, Ears and Eyes: Check and, if necessary, trim nails (or have them trimmed by your groomer/veterinarian). Gently clean eyes and ears with specific products, without using Q-tips.
3. Nutrition and Hydration
Balanced Diet: Choose high quality foods appropriate for his age (puppy, adult, senior), size and activity level.
Weight Control: Keep your dog at his ideal weight. Obesity is a risk factor for many diseases (arthritis, diabetes, heart problems). Ask your veterinarian for the ideal Body Condition Score (BCS) for your dog.
Water: Make sure he always has access to a bowl of fresh, clean water.
Each dog is a unique individual. Although structure is important, your routine should be tailored to your age, temperament and family habits. The goal is always a balance of activity, rest and affection.
