We dog lovers all want the same thing: for our pups to live the longest, happiest lives possible. The ultimate goal is not just to boost their longevity, but to aim for many “healthy years” when they live free of pain or illness.
“Longevity isn't determined by any single product or routine. It's the result of consistent, everyday care over the course of a dog's life,” says Brett Shorenstein, V.M.D., co-founder of Veterinary Innovative Partners (VIP) and owner and medical director of Abingdon Square Veterinary Clinic.
While longevity can depend on genetics, breed, size, and underlying health conditions, as Shorenstein puts it, there are overall habits that can add years to your furry friend’s life.
“For many dogs, these habits may contribute to one to three additional years of life, with much of that time being active, comfortable, and relatively free from preventable disease,” Shorenstein says.
Here are the habits you can stick to every day to help your pupper live a good, long life.
1. Feed them a high-quality diet
Christine Jurek, D.V.M., medical director at TOPS Veterinary Rehabilitation, calls nutrition “the cornerstone of health.” It’s important to choose diets for our dogs that provide optimal nutrients and help them maintain good health.
“Pet food labels frequently indicate that the diet meets minimum requirements, but this is a ‘good enough’ approach,” Jurek says. “When you want the best, it may take a bit more effort, but it is the best investment that you can make for your dog.”
She recommends visiting your veterinary practice for evidence-based information that some pet store employees may not have. You can also start with online research and gathering advice on the best diet to suit your dog’s needs.
“Food provides the building blocks for life, so making healthy choices gives your dog the best foundation for health and longevity,” Jurek says.
2. Aim for a healthy weight
“Keep your dog at a healthy weight,” Shorenstein advises. “Too much weight can lead to problems like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease, all of which can shorten a dog's life.”
He says that to maintain a healthy weight, you need to measure your dog's food accurately and ensure treats account for no more than 10% of their daily calories.
He cites a Purina Institute study which found that Labrador Retrievers that were lean-fed and kept at an ideal weight lived about 1.8 years longer on average, expanding their lifespan by 15%.
3. Brush their teeth
While not every dog loves it, brushing their teeth daily and keeping their teeth and gums healthy really will help them in the long run.
“Dental problems are very common in dogs and can affect more than just their mouth,” Shorenstein says. “Long-term infections in the mouth can cause inflammation throughout the body and have been linked to heart, liver, and kidney disease.”
He explains that ideally, you should brush your dog's teeth every day with dog-specific toothpaste.
“Dental chews, oral care products approved by your vet, and professional cleanings when recommended can also help,” he adds.
4. Provide mental and physical exercise
Jurek points out that dogs used to be expected to work for a living and are still programmed to lead active lifestyles. That means that daily mental and physical exercise is a must.
“The need for exercise and stimulation is somewhat age- and breed-dependent, but regular walks (daily is ideal but at least a few times a week) provide not only exercise but stress relief,” Jurek says. “Dogs like to investigate, explore, and roam, and giving them that opportunity on a regular basis goes a long way to support both mental and physical health.”
Shorenstein says that exercise isn’t just meant for burning off energy: “It helps maintain a healthy weight, keeps their muscles strong, supports heart health, and provides important mental stimulation.”
The vets share that additional ways to enrich their daily lives include playtime, games that engage their sense of smell, puzzle feeders, and basic training.
“Dogs that stay active tend to have better mobility and mental sharpness as they age, leading to a better overall quality of life,” Shorenstein says.
Jurek says, “Even senior dogs with limited mobility will live longer, happier, and healthier lives with 10 to 15 minutes of active exercise each day, and if they are able to do more, even better.”
With these healthy habits, you’ll be loving your dog for many years to come.
