Tips to help your dog live longer

An Australian shepherd, named Maggie, lived for almost 30 years between 1910 and 1939 and is considered the oldest dog in history according to Guinness Record. According to her owners, she died while taking a nap.

Maggie is not a normal case (the life expectancy of a dog is usually between 12-13 years) but her owners must have done something right to keep her in good shape for so many years.

We cannot promise that your dog will become a new world record, but these tips can help ensure a long and happy life with your best friend. Certain breeds live longer than others, of course, but these tips can apply to any dog.

How can we help our dog have a long and healthy life?

1. Promote a healthy diet

Dogs that eat less live longer. According to a 2011 study, dogs that were raised on a calorie-restricted diet (approximately 25% less than the "normal" recommended food amounts) lived an average of two years longer than dogs that received more food. Of course, you should not drastically reduce your dog's caloric intake without consulting a veterinarian, but this information supports the commonsense knowledge that a dog at a healthy weight is a dog with a longer life. Obese dogs are also more likely to develop heart diseases and debilitating joint problems. The quality of the food we give our dogs is also important. Research the labels. Avoid generic "meat by-products," sugars, excessive sodium, and unnecessary fillers. Look for whole and natural ingredients along with responsible sourcing practices for your dog's food to help extend their health.

2. Exercise is synonymous with good health

The diet is not the only way to help your dog stay fit. Exercise is a key component to prolonging your dog's life, and as an added benefit, it will also help you stay fit! Exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost endorphins, and balance mood and emotions in both people and dogs. In addition to helping your dog maintain a healthy weight and muscle mass, it also keeps their cardiovascular system in good shape. Ultimately, regular physical activity will help keep them happy. If you want to prolong their life, consider extending those evening walks and perhaps adding a run. Better yet, let your dog play off-leash with one or two canine friends: socializing with other dogs is another way to reduce their stress and improve their overall quality of life.

3. Keep their mind fit

Just like people, dogs thrive on mental stimulation to keep them happy. A bored dog can become depressed, anxious, and even sick. You can prolong your dog's life by keeping them busy. As they age, try to keep their mind active with training, socialization, games, personalized attention, and other enrichment activities. It’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks! You can enroll in courses on advanced obedience lessons or try a canine sport like agility or lure coursing. Your dog will thrive with the additional stimulation and your bond will strengthen as you learn new skills together.

4. Don't forget to brush their teeth

Dental hygiene is an often-overlooked aspect of dog care. Many of us simply forget to brush our dogs' teeth regularly. Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque, gingivitis, and ultimately periodontal disease, a bacterial infection in the mouth that has been linked to heart disease and organ damage in dogs. The good news is that it's not difficult to keep your dog's mouth healthy. Just brush their teeth regularly, provide safe chew toys, and have the veterinarian check their teeth at annual visits.

5. Follow your veterinarian's instructions

Even if your dog is the picture of health, they should visit the veterinarian at least once a year for a general check-up and twice a year as they grow older. A regular check-up of their well-being will provide the necessary information to maintain optimal health for your dog and a record of their health history as they age. It will also give your veterinarian the opportunity to catch potential issues early on and the chance to address a detected problem from the start with much better odds of success. Following a regular routine of preventive care will give your dog the best chance of living a long and healthy life.

6. Remember to enjoy every moment

The only fact that can sadden dog owners is that their life expectancy is much shorter than ours, and there are no miracle products that extend your dog's life far beyond the natural condition of their breed. But with careful consideration, enrichment, and regular veterinary attention, you may be able to give them a few more years. The time you can spend together is precious, so try to maintain healthy habits for your dog, active in body and mind, and enjoy every minute.