Tips for happier, healthier pets

Most adult dogs need 30–60 minutes of exercise daily, split into two sessions. High-energy breeds (Border Collies, Huskies, Labs) may need 90+ minutes. A 15-minute walk is better than nothing, but aim for at least 30 minutes of sustained walking. Watch your dog — if they're still zooming around after a walk, they probably need more.

Change your dog's water at least twice a day — morning and evening. Use a clean bowl (stainless steel is best — it resists bacteria buildup). In warm weather, add ice cubes to keep it cool. A good rule of thumb: dogs need about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day.

Most adult dogs do well with two meals a day — morning and evening. Puppies need 3–4 smaller meals. Keep a consistent schedule — dogs thrive on routine. Measure portions by weight, not volume, and adjust based on activity level. Always check with your vet before changing your dog's diet.

Check the pavement with the back of your hand — if you can't hold it there for 7 seconds, it's too hot for paws. On 85°F days, asphalt can reach 140°F. Walk early morning or evening in summer. Stick to grass or shaded routes, and always carry water.

Most dogs are fine down to about 45°F, but small breeds, short-haired dogs, and seniors feel the cold more. Below 32°F, consider a coat or sweater. Below 20°F, limit walks to quick potty breaks. Watch for shivering, lifting paws, or reluctance to walk — those are signs your dog is too cold.

Poop bags (always more than one), a sturdy 4–6 foot leash (avoid retractable leashes in the city), a well-fitted collar or harness with ID tags, and water on hot days. Reflective gear is a smart addition for evening walks. And your phone — for photos, obviously.

Stay calm — your dog reads your energy. Don't yell or run. Put yourself between your dog and the approaching dog. Use a firm "No" or "Sit" command. Carry pet-safe deterrent spray for worst-case scenarios. Afterward, report the incident to the owner or animal control if the dog is aggressive.

Watch for changes in appetite, energy level, or bathroom habits. Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive scratching, coughing, or discharge from eyes/nose are red flags. Lethargy — when a normally energetic dog won't get up — always warrants a vet call. Trust your instincts; you know your dog best.

Brush your dog's teeth 2–3 times per week with dog-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Dental chews and toys help between brushings. Bad breath, red gums, or difficulty eating are signs of dental disease — see your vet. Professional cleanings are recommended annually for most dogs.

Adult dogs should have an annual wellness exam. Puppies need more frequent visits for vaccinations (every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks old). Senior dogs (7+) benefit from twice-yearly checkups. Keep vaccinations up to date — rabies, distemper, and bordetella are the core ones to stay on top of.

Chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and peanut butter), macadamia nuts, and alcohol are all toxic. Cooked bones can splinter. Fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis. When in doubt, stick to dog treats. Keep the ASPCA poison control number handy: (888) 426-4435.

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories. Use small training treats for frequent rewarding. Carrots, green beans, and apple slices (no seeds) make great low-calorie alternatives. If you're training heavily, reduce meal portions slightly to compensate.

Look for an AAFCO statement on the label confirming the food is "complete and balanced." Named protein sources ("chicken" not "meat meal") are a good sign. Your dog's coat shine, energy level, and stool quality are the best indicators. A shiny coat, good energy, and firm stools = the food is working.

Most dogs need a bath every 4–6 weeks. Bathing too often strips natural oils; too infrequently leads to odor and skin issues. Use dog-specific shampoo — human shampoo has a different pH. Brush before bathing to remove loose fur and mats. Always dry thoroughly, especially in skin folds.

Trim a little at a time — the quick (blood vessel inside the nail) is easier to see on light nails. On dark nails, trim until you see a small dark dot in the center of the cut surface (that's the start of the quick). Have styptic powder on hand in case you nick the quick. If you're nervous, let a groomer handle it.

Brush your dog 2–3 times per week — daily during heavy shedding seasons (spring and fall). Use the right brush: slicker brushes for long-haired breeds, rubber curry brushes for short coats, undercoat rakes for double-coated breeds. A healthy diet with omega-3 fatty acids also helps reduce excessive shedding.

Never leave your dog in a parked car — even with windows cracked, temps can hit 120°F in minutes. Walk early or late, avoid hot pavement, and always bring water. Know the signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting. Cool your dog gradually with room-temperature (not ice-cold) water if they overheat.

Antifreeze is deadly — a few licks can kill. Wipe your dog's paws after walks to remove salt and de-icer. Holiday foods (chocolate, rich meats, alcohol) and decorations (tinsel, ornaments, poinsettias) are hazards. Keep your dog's routine consistent through the holiday chaos — it reduces their stress.

Create a safe space — a crate, a quiet room, or a closet with blankets and white noise. Pressure wraps (like Thundershirts) help many dogs. Don't coddle or punish fearful behavior — stay calm and act normal. Talk to your vet about anti-anxiety options if your dog's fear is severe.