When you own a dog, it is your responsibility to ensure that they are getting nutritious food and regular checkups. Gone are the days when it was enough to give your dog cheap, corn-based kibbles. Today, you have so many other options available that you can add to your dog's food to boost their health. Many dog owners ask how to boost dog's immune system by including all the right things in their diet. There are a number of options actually.
Boost Your Dog's Immune System with Diet!
Pumpkin
You can always add a raw pumpkin to your dog's meals to improve their health. It is especially beneficial if your dog has any gastrointestinal problems. It works great whether your dog is passing loose or firm stools, and that is mainly because of the high fiber content of pumpkins. Just be sure to opt for plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin.
Plain Yogurt
Plain, unsweetened yogurt provides your dog with loads of calcium and probiotics. It provides them with some amazing gastrointestinal health benefits. Live active cultures are also helpful when your dog has lactose intolerance.
Coconut Oil
Wondering how to boost dog's immune system? Try coconut oil. Thanks to its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, you can always add coconut oil to your dog's meals. Not only does it improve skin conditions, it also prevents diabetes and aids in digestion.
Rosemary
Loaded with vitamin B6, iron, and calcium, rosemary can always be part of your dog's diet. Not only does it spice up your dog's meals, it also improves their overall health with its antioxidant properties.
Vitamin E
This essential vitamin helps maintain cardiac and immune health of your dog. If you want to know how to boost dog's immune system, simply add vitamin-E supplement to their diet. It improves their skin, eye, and muscle health as well.
Fish Oil
Packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, fish oil is just as beneficial for dogs as it is for humans. Adding fish oil to your dog's meals will boost their immune system and reduce pain and inflammation as well. It also helps improve skin and coat health.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are extremely important for your dog's overall health. They protect your dog from life-threatening diseases. You do not have to spend a lot of money to provide your dog with an increased supply of antioxidants. Dried beans, such as pinto, kidney, and red beans are some of the best options to consider.
Improve Your Dog's Immune System with Daily Care
Avoid Social Isolation
You need to understand that dogs are social creatures and you are only going to make them tired and sick if you leave them alone in the backyard. This makes them depressed, which directly affects their immune system function. Do not leave them isolated – they need people around them and this also helps them become physically active, which is essential for their overall health.
Say No to Herbal Remedies
It is better to stay away from herbal teas, herbs, and other 'natural' preparations, as they can be toxic for your little friend. Do not automatically assume that what is good for you is beneficial for your dog as well. Be sure to talk to your vet before giving any herb to your beloved dog.
Keep Your Dog Parasite Free
It is important to have your dog de-wormed regularly. Your dog can get infected if you do not take steps to keep him parasite free. Exposure to ticks, fleas, worms, and heartworms will weaken their immune system. You may not notice any symptoms in your dog immediately after they ingest a parasite, and that is mainly because their immune system keeps fighting the parasite. Regular checkups will help prevent these issues and keep your dog's immune system healthy.
Keep Your Dog Away from Dirty Areas
Just like humans, it is important to keep dogs away from dirty areas, as this exposes them to viruses and bacteria from other animals. Some common examples include pet stores, dog parks, and interstate rest stops. These are public places and people with sick pets may have already visited the areas. Exposing your dogs to those bacteria and viruses can lead to serious complications. It is therefore a better idea to take your dog on a lonely trail, away from the pollution. You will be spending some quality time with your little friend, which also works wonders for their overall health.
Say No to Raw Eggs and Meat
If you think dogs can eat anything, you are wrong. Many types of foods can have life-threatening consequences for your little friend, and raw eggs and meat are included in that list. Raw meat and eggs may contain salmonella and other pathogens, which can directly affect the immune system of your dog by making it work hard to clear the infection. Therefore, you should always cook eggs and meat thoroughly before offering them to your dog.
Do Not Leave Those Teeth Dirty
In terms of how to boost dog's immune system, clean gums and teeth are essential. A number of medical conditions arise from teeth, which is why it is essential to brush your dog's teeth regularly. Tartar has harmful bacteria that can go into your dog's bloodstream through what they eat. This in turn starts taxing the immune system and leads to other complications. You can also buy some specially designed toys and snacks that may not be as effective as brushing but will still help keep their mouth clean to some extent.
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