Proper diet and exercise are just what the doctor ordered when it comes to living a healthier and longer life, for us and our canine friends. “Just like people, the secret to longevity for dogs is to eat healthy and exercise,” advises Dr. Justin Toth, veterinarian and owner/founder of Dallas Highway Animal Hospital. Here are a few ways to help your faithful adventure buddy stay in peak condition—now and for years to come.
Start with Proper Nutrition
A healthy diet is the foundation of your dog’s overall well-being. In line with the current pushback against ultra-processed human foods, pet owners are ditching traditional, highly processed dry food in favor of more nutrient-dense whole food. “Feeding your dog healthy, pre-portioned food can add years to its life,” says Dr. Jonathan Block, who practices an integrative approach to veterinary medicine.
Enter The Farmer’s Dog. Since its founding in 2014, the company’s mission has been to bring uncomplicated care to your pet through uncomplicated real food formulated by vet-nutritionists to be complete and balanced. The food is human-grade, gently cooked, and made with a single protein source, so you know exactly where your dog’s nutrients are coming from. All with the goal of giving your dog the best food to live its best life.
In addition to nutrition, correct portioning is also paramount for longevity, with studies showing that dogs who maintain a healthy weight live on average up to 2.5 years longer than overweight dogs. “The number-one disease we treat in pets is obesity, which is what I love about error-free calorie control,” says Dr. Toth. “We all know the measuring cup of food varies tremendously depending on which family member does the feeding.” With personalized meal plans, The Farmer’s Dog takes the guesswork out of feeding. Each meal is precisely portioned based on your dog’s age, breed, size, and activity level, making weight management easier.
Add Regular Exercise
Most dogs thrive on physical activity. To keep them healthy and engaged, provide regular exercise. Outdoor activities like hiking, running, and swimming can all improve cardiovascular health and weight issues. It might be helpful to think about your adventure dog as an athlete: it needs a training regimen that suits not only its breed, age, and energy levels but also the changing of the seasons. Adds Rocky Mountain vet Dr. Karen Nann, “Come spring, a lot of dogs are coming off a lazier winter—so start slowly and build up, adding a mile or two weekly to increase stamina.”
Boost Mental Stimulation
Many experts say mental stimulation is as important as exercise. Feed your dog’s curiosity and keep their mind sharp with brain-challenging activities—such as obedience training, puzzle toys, or scent games. Supplementing physical exercise with mental exercise also combats boredom and potential behavioral problems. “Some dogs do better mentally if they have a ‘job,’” says Dr. Steve Conlin, a veterinarian in Eagle, Colorado. He notes this is especially important in herding and retriever breeds. “The job can be anything–playing frisbee, retrieving a ball–but it needs to be part of the dog’s everyday life.”
Don’t Forget Hydration
When exercising in the heat or on more strenuous outings, make sure your dog can always get to fresh, clean drinking water. “If you’re overheated, your four-legged friend will be too,” says Dr. Nann. “My rule of thumb: double the amount of water I need to have enough for my pets.” The only way for dogs to release excess heat is through their paw pads and panting, so if your dog starts to pant excessively or seeks shade, it’s time to take a break. Dehydration can lead to kidney damage or heatstroke, so always keep water on hand when you’re out and about with your dog.
Prevent Injuries
Again, think of dogs just as you do people: they can get hurt just like you, so take precautions and carry a dog-friendly first-aid kit. Be mindful of rough terrain and dangerous obstacles when deciding which route to take. Also consider investing in protective gear like dog booties, which can safeguard paws from cuts, burns, punctures, and snow buildup. “I carry a dog safety pack that has booties, treats, bandage material, forceps, and Benadryl,” says Dr. Nann. “These tools will cover allergic reactions, let you pull out prickers or cactus needles, wrap up abrasions, and provide some extra calories.”
And be willing to adjust plans as your pet gets older. “As adventure dogs age, they need to be forced by the owners to back off; they don’t know better, so it’s up to the owners to shorten the rides, runs, or skis,” says Dr. Conlin.
When you put it all together, maximizing your adventure buddy’s health is not complicated. Just be deliberate about what you provide your pet, from nutrition to exercise. And of course you can never have too many ear scratches and pats on the head.
About The Farmer’s Dog: With more than 1 billion meals served, The Farmer’s Dog is leading a revolution in pet care by providing personalized fresh meal plans designed to help dogs live longer, healthier lives. Every meal is complete and balanced, made to human-grade safety standards, portion controlled, and delivered directly to customers’ doors. Plans are developed and supported by our team of on-staff Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists®, PhD nutritionists, and veterinarians. The Farmer’s Dog is dedicated to bringing peace of mind to dog lovers by helping them do their best for their dogs, and setting the highest bar in the pet care industry. Available nationwide, only at www.thefarmersdog.com.
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