A Day in the Life of a Healthy Pooch

As fur parents, we cherish our dogs' boundless energy and unwavering love. They don't expect much from us, but we can return their affection by doing our best to make sure they are happy and well. 

Feeding them good food, giving them regular baths, and showing them affection are ways of caring for our faithful companions. Overarching these acts of service is a daily routine that can help your dog thrive.

Creating a schedule you and your dog can follow can help with behavior and training. It doesn't have to be rigid, but a structure definitely helps.

Today, we'll delve into a day in the life of a daily pooch, outlining a day that embraces physical and mental stimulation, gentle care, and wholesome nutrition.

Morning Routine: A Burst of Energy and Nourishment

7:00 AM

The sun rises, and so do you and your dog. We know how tempting it is to stay in bed and cuddle your pet, but you must fight the urge. Instead, the two of you should go on a morning walk.

Walking in the morning is good exercise, helping you start the day right. The cool breeze is refreshing, and the steady walking pace can energize you and your pet. Plus, you exert enough energy to leave you hungry for breakfast. 

Your walks don't even need to be that long. A brisk 30-minute routine around your neighborhood is enough to keep you and your pooch physically active. You can also change the pace if you're hyped up on certain mornings.

 

7:45 AM

You return home from your walk, a bit sweaty and out of breath but feeling great. Your dog waits patiently as you remove their leash before they go to the kitchen, where they usually eat.

It's time for you two to refuel and get ready for the day. While your breakfast is cooking, you prepare your dog's meal. Every dog has a preference, but eating a well-balanced and nutritious breakfast would be good.

Opt for high-quality dog food rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. If dry food isn't enough, you can supplement the kibble with broth, raw meat, or wet food, provided they're safe for dogs. Dr. Shiba’s Pro Immune is one example you can use as these functional dog treats work as food toppers as well. 

Midday Activities: Keeping the Mind Sharp

12:00 PM

Morning naps always feel great after a hearty breakfast. Your furry friend might have found their special corner and dozed after eating, and they look cute, cuddling with their favorite toy. But it's time to wake up now.

Noontime is the perfect moment to engage in some fun brain-teasing activities. If you have the space, why not play hide-and-seek? Take your dog's favorite toys, hide them around the house, and give your dog some treats every time they find their toys. 

You can also use your preferred Dr. Shiba treats for obedience training. Teach or refresh your dog's knowledge of common commands, like sit, stay, or fetch. 

1:00 PM

Lunchtime arrives, and it's another chance to feed your dog a delicious and nutritious meal.  

Now, every dog has unique needs, so it's best to figure out if your dog has nutritional deficiencies and address those as soon as possible. Staying on top of your dog's nutrition is one of the best ways of preventing illness.

You can work closely with your veterinarian, who can prescribe vitamins if needed. Another option is to introduce supplements to your dog's diet. Dr. Shiba has Happy Tummy and Pro Immune, which help with gut problems and weak immune systems, respectively. 

Afternoon Adventures: Outdoor Play and Bonding

3:00 PM

Do you have spare time in the afternoon? Try venturing outdoors for a play session with your beloved companion. Indoor games are fun, but physical activities can stimulate their brains and stretch their bodies.

Fetch, tug-of-war, and frisbee are fantastic games that encourage a lot of movements from your dog. They can also strengthen the bond between you and your pooch.

If there's a dog park near you, you can also use this time to socialize with other fur parents and their dogs. Mingling with other dogs can help reduce fear and anxiety, improve behavior, and enhance your companion's overall health.

4:30 PM

Hydration is vital, especially after an active play session. Remember to bring clean water and a bowl for your pet if you're outdoors. Without water, your dog risks dehydration, leading to severe issues later.

Besides giving them water, you can reward your dog with frozen treats. They're easy to make, especially if you're a fruit enjoyer. Take dog-friendly fruits like bananas, strawberries, and watermelons, puree them, and freeze them. You can also mix and match to create unique combinations.

To keep your dog cool in the afternoon heat, pat them down with a damp towel. If your dog has long fur, make sure to dry them to prevent any tangles. 

Evening Relaxation: Winding Down and Final Meals

6:00 PM

At this point, you and your dog are likely spent after your busy day. You can take the time to cuddle and pet your dog while winding down. Of course, it's understandable if you have other responsibilities and can't do so.

If you need to do something, why not set up the television to entertain your fur baby? Many dogs enjoy watching TV, and your dog may be the same. Just ensure that the show or movie you put on isn't overstimulating.

Music is another option to consider, especially if it's currently storming. Soothing tunes can distract your pet and prevent them from panicking if thunder rumbles or lightning strikes. 

6:30 PM

Finally, dinnertime! Dogs have unique feeding schedules, with some eating twice a day while others three times. The general rule is to have, at most, twelve hours in between meals. Anything more than that may be harmful to your dog.

Also, consider the heartiness of the meal considering the time of day. Your dog may be hungry, but loading his bowl with too much food can hurt his tummy and lead to unhealthy weight gain.

What you can do is feed him a nutrient-dense meal instead of a heavy one. Prioritizing food quality over quantity can ensure your dog is satiated for the night. 

Nighttime Comfort: Restful Slumber

8:00 PM

Before bedtime, take a leisurely walk to help your dog unwind. A calm stroll allows them to release any lingering energy and prepares them for a peaceful night's sleep.

9:00 PM

Create a comfortable sleeping space for your pup. Providing a soft, supportive bed ensures that they have a cozy place to rest their tired bodies, allowing them to wake up refreshed and ready for another day of joyful activities.

Final Thoughts: Nurturing Wellness Holistically

At the end of the day, this sample routine is just that --  a sample. Your pooch can lead a completely different life, and that's okay! So long as you practice balance when creating schedules for them. 

Physical and mental activities, healthy meals, and adequate rest are some essentials to remember. You should also consider targeted supplementation, especially if your pup has health issues.

Dr. Shiba's Functional Dog Treats are regarded as some of the best pet treats on the market. These treats address common dog problems and help improve your dog's health. Check out our Quadruple Care Bundle today to try out all four supplements!