Obsessed With Your Dog(s)? Us too! Here’s How We Ensure They Stay Healthy & Happy

Meet Bennie and June, they are my dogs and my heart. I can’t remember what life was like without them, because they’ve always felt like family.

They bring me out of bouts of depression and remind me, everyday, to put happiness and humility first. Just looking at their tiny little faces is enough to brighten my day.

I am completely obsessed with them. Sometimes I wake up just so I can watch them sleep because they’re so cute when they dream.

They’ve done so much for me, and it’s important to me, that I do everything that I can (and then some) to ensure that they’re living their best life. That includes staying on top of their diets and activities so that they’re as healthy as can be. That’s why, we’ve enlisted Celebrity Pet Expert, Harrison Forbes to share his top 5 tips for perfecting pet health.

The boys were VERY interested in the chicken and brown rice kibble as soon as it arrived at the door.

It’s all about a first-class diet

Surprise! What’s good for you is also good for your pet. Diet is the number one contributor to a healthy lifestyle for pets and humans, which means that you should make sure that your pup eats a well-rounded diet that includes all the essential food groups. President’s Choice® Nutrition First® makes the task super easy by incorporating high-quality meats and wholesome grains into their food.

Nothing beats a fall hike with dad.

Let’s get physical

In Forbes’ experience, most problem pet behaviours are rooted in frustration. Remember, pets are just like us! We love going to the gym and moving our bods because of the rush of endorphins, and our little guys are no different. Forbes suggests finding time to play with your dog and engaging him/her in mental stimulation (like “smart toys”) and physical exercise (like walks and runs) on the regular. One of Bennie and June’s favourite activities is going for a hike and swim with their dad by the Credit River. They always come home pumped, a wee bit dirty and as happy as two furry little clams.

For a picky eater, June DEVOURED his grain-free biscuit immediately.

Early Education is key

If you want to make the most of training, it’s important to do your research and understand your dog’s genetic history early in the game. Once you become aware of your pup’s breed-specific behaviours, you can design a program that’s catered directly to their needs. Make sure that you recognize and celebrate progress with positive feedback and treats!President’s Choice® Nutrition First® Grain-Free Biscuits are a great way to reward and reinforce good behaviour, and a healthy complement to your dog’s diet. (Sidenote: I wish somebody gave me biscuits every time I got something right.)

Buddies.

Socialization and play dates

It’s super important to teach your pets how to interact with people and animals alike. They need to learn acceptable social behaviours, form relationships and establish boundaries, just like kids! I love bringing Bennie and June to BBQs and park dates. They’re always a HUGE hit with friends and strangers, and they soak in the attention!

“Stop being weird, mom.”

If you love talking about your pets as much as I do, join the convo online by tagging your posts with #PCPet.