4 Ways to Boost Your Dog's Immune System

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We all love our dogs, and it's for that reason we hate to see them feeling ill or lethargic. We want them to play and run around, and have the energy to really enjoy their lives.

But they can only have that when they're healthy. Sure, a visit to the local vet can help, but what's even more effective is stopping an illness before it even happens.

In this blog we're going to take a look at four ways you can boost your dog's immune system so that he or she can stay healthy, be happy, and keep being the lovable handful that you want them to be for many years to come.

#1 Weight Control

The higher a dog's weight the more its immune system will struggle. With some breeds this can feel much harder (those who own a gorgeous, greedy labrador will know what I'm talking about), but there are a few little tricks you can use to keep the weight down.

You'll want to speak with your vet and ask them how many calories your dog should be consuming each day.

Portion control is then the main way to monitor food intake, but if your dog eats its dinner in one ravenous go, try one of the “anti gulping” dog bowls which can make eating more fun, and slow down feeding time.

#2 Antioxidants

You've probably heard about these health promoting foods in humans, but antioxidants are important for dogs as well!

In today's modern life, dogs are exposed to a range of pollutants which they wouldn't have been naturally, and so this can take a real strain on their immune system; but did you know that oxygen exposure can actually cause long term damage as well?

Antioxidants help protect against some of the associated risks caused by oxidization by slowing down cell damage and blocking molecules called free- radicals, which take their toll throughout your dog's body and are an unavoidable by-product of breathing.

A word of warning though! Antioxidants are not always suitable in “human” foods for your pet, so it can be best to administer them as part of a dog food; so look at the ingredients and see if a dog food brand includes natural antioxidants such as citric acid and vitamins C and E, as well as synthetic antioxidants like BHA, ethoxyquin and BHT.

Natural antioxidants are better, but you should be aware that synthetic ones tend to increase shelf life.

#3 Keep Calm & Energized

Stress is a real problem for dogs and humans alike. I have no doubt a good way for you to alleviate stress is to spend time with your dog, well it's the same for your four-pawed best friend as well.

Stress itself can inhibit the immune system and manifest itself as a physical and/or mental health issue. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that your dog doesn't get stressed:

Ensure plenty of exercise: This is essential. Exercise increases endorphins in the brain which creates a sense of well-being, even euphoria in cases. It is the antidote to a dog feeling a little blue.
Socialize: Dogs are social animals, and as such it's important for them to socialize with people and other dogs. Of course, some of our pets are not good with other animals, or strangers, but if you can, socialize your dog as much as possible. This will stimulate them and keep them motivated.
Change of Scene: We're all creatures of habit, and so are our hairy friends, but a change of scene once in a while is a great way to stimulate attention. New sights, smells and sounds will engage your dog, keeping his or her mind active. Try a different walking route to help stimulate your dog and keep them thinking.

#4 Supplements

One of the most common ailments dogs suffer from is hip dysplasia and joint issues; and so it's important to use a supplement which will both boost your pet's immune system and contribute to overall health concerns such as these.

Omega 3 supplements are a great way to do this, and if they contain all of the quality essential fatty acids your dog needs, they can really protect your dog's health before issues arise, and help alleviate existing problems with joints.

What's important is not that you necessarily choose our product (although we wouldn't mind if you did, honest), but to ensure that your dog is as healthy as possible by adding high quality Omega 3 supplementation into their diet.