The first six months are the "main growth phase". They require high quality protein and nutrients.

The next 6- 12 months require a reduced protein content to help prevent any growth disorders.

Now fully grown, finding the right diet to match their energy requirements is key. 

Now in old age, diets with a lower fat and phosphorus are needed.

Keeping Your Dog Healthy And Happy Indoors

lazy sleeping dog

With many of us spending more time inside, we know that ensuring your dog is getting everything they need to be as healthy and happy as possible can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve outlined our top tips to help ensure your favourite four-legged friend remains top-dog in these uncertain times. 

Toys and games

Ensuring your dog is occupied with plenty of their favourite toys is a brilliant way to keep them happy. Perhaps try rotating out the toys every few days to keep them interested and offer them some variety. Also, try playing fun games with them to keep them sharp, you could try treat treasure hunts in the garden or the house, or even puzzle challenges, such as getting them to guess which cup the treat is in. 

If your dog is getting bored of their toys, why not try making some DIY ones such as knotted ripped up bed sheets, or make your own ball tug toy with a tennis ball and some rope. 

Give Them space

Try and give your pooch as much space as possible to play in. Pets usually need more than one room to run around in, so if possible, try to let them have access to your whole downstairs so they can run from room to room. This will help them burn off some steam and stop them from getting bored. Even better if you can let them run up and down the stairs!

Make time for them

We know how hard it can be to juggle work and paying with your dog, but try to set designated playtime breaks in your day to spend some time with them. Spending time playing together is not only amazing for us humans, but it’s also vital for ensuring your dog stays healthy and happy. 

Obedience routines

All the time spent inside is the perfect time to train your pooch with some obedience routines. Try to improve their basic skills of sit, stay, heel, or if they’re really advanced then try high fives or getting them to put things away. This will not only keep you entertained for hours, but it will do wonders for keeping them mentally active too. 

Teach them new tricks 

If your dog has the obedience commands nailed, how about using this time to teach them some awesome tricks. Perhaps you want them to crawl, or hold a treat or their nose, either way, there are so many amazing ones to choose from. This will help keep them mentally stimulated and it’s a brilliant way to strengthen your bond.