Stop Stifling Your Indoor Dog: 5 Tips To Keep Your Indoor Dog Healthy

As a dog owner, you know your dog’s basic needs: food, water, exercise, attention. Dogs aren’t much different from humans in that sense. However, sometimes we get so caught up with our lives that we neglect a lot of less obvious needs that our dogs have. These needs become even harder to notice if we have an indoor dog.

Take a look at these 5 tips and think about whether you’re giving your dog enough TLC.

1. Let The Sunshine In

The sunlight puts us in a great mood and our dogs are no different. Dogs are also naturally very curious. They want to see what’s going on outside. Try opening the curtains and cracking open the blinds.

2. Stay On Top of Your Dog’s Nutrition

Sunshine isn’t just a mood changer. It is also a valuable source of vitamin D. Yes, this applies to dogs as well. If you haven’t found an opportunity to take your dog outside, consider adding a supplement to your dog’s meal to ensure he/she gets the proper nutrients.

Another useful tip is to rotate food proteins and mix dry and wet dog food. You wouldn’t want to eat the same thing everyday and your dog is no different! Keep your dog’s meal time interesting, and talk to your vet about the ideal diet for your particular dog.

3. Keep The Air Fresh

Our houses can get stuffy if we don’t open the windows every once in a while. Dogs have a keener sense of smell than we do, so imagine what their smelling! If you’re home, open the window a bit so your dog can breathe some fresh air. If you’re not home, make sure you have pet-proof screens to keep your dog safe.

Cold or rainy days rarely motivate people to open their windows. In these weather conditions, an air purifier will help to remove stuffiness.

4. Encourage Doggy Playtime

Dogs crave attention from their owners. Like human beings, dogs want to feel loved and cared for. That is why it is important to reserve some one-on-one time for you and your tail wagging companion.

When you play with your dog, encourage sensory stimulation to mimic the sensory experience your dog has when he/she is outside. Play games that involve using scent, sounds and tastes i.e. hide and seek or treat hunting.

Another perfect way to bond with your dog is through training exercises. Dogs benefit from these exercises because they keep a dog’s mind sharp, plus it gives them something to do. The training benefits you because you get to be the proud owner of an obedient, clever pet. It’s a win-win situation.

For the days when you just don’t have the time, or are not around to give your dog the attention he/she needs, make sure there are some doggy toys for him/her to play with so he/she doesn’t get bored.

5. Get a Treadmill

Did you know there were treadmills for dogs? They don’t beat walking your dog outside, but a doggy gym is the next best thing. No longer will you feel bad about not walking your dog because you’re sick, or too busy. With a doggy treadmill, even when the weather is bad, your dog can exercise at his or her convenience.