Instructions
Spend time with your dog. Dogs are social animals and need to be included in and interact with their pack family. Showing your dog affection with praise and play will engage and challenge him. Quiet time with your dog equally is valuable. Sitting quietly while patting your dog will calm and relax him. It also will remind him that you are a source of comfort to him in times of stress.
Visit a veterinarian regularly for your dog's health. Keeping your dog up-to-date on vaccinations will keep illness at bay, and your veterinarian can recommend changes to your dog's diet or exercise to ensure your dog's optimal health. Offer clean, fresh water at all times. Feed a good quality food that will provide the proper nutrients to keep his bones and muscles strong, and his body healthy. Groom your dog regularly to keep his skin and coat clean and lustrous, or hire a professional groomer.
Choose an activity you and your dog love. A walk in the park, hiking, throwing a Frisbee, obedience and agility training are ways to bring you and your dog together and improve your dog's health and well-being. Depending on the breed of the dog, exercise and play are essential to keep his mind active and minimize bored or destructive behavior. For instance, herding dogs excel in agility, while working dogs, such as Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds, enjoy retrieving and tracking.
How to Give Your Dog a Happier Life
A dog will thrive on the basic needs of food, water and attention from the person who means the most to him. Dogs are pack animals, and rely on leadership from and inclusion in their human family, whether it is a raucous game of fetch or a quiet nap on a Sunday afternoon. No matter what breed or age your dog is, a happier life will depend on the connection between a canine and his companions.