Our dogs aren’t just pets — they’re soulmates, healers, companions, and family. And just like us, their health thrives on everyday choices. The truth is, dog longevity isn’t just about genes — it’s about environment, nourishment, and intentional care.
Inspired by The Forever Dog and backed by science, this dog care guide is here to help you extend your dog’s life with simple, joyful habits.
Let’s dive in on how to take care of a dog for maximum longevity.
Food as Medicine: Nourishment That Adds Years to Their Life
Whole Foods for the Win (Even 10% Matters)
When looking at how to take care of a dog, one of the most impactful things you can do is change up what is in their dog bowl. You don’t need to commit to a full raw diet to see massive benefits. Research shows that even replacing 10% of your dog’s processed food with whole, fresh ingredients can dramatically reduce the risk of disease and increase lifespan.
Try rotating in:
- 🥕 Carrots, blueberries, broccoli, pumpkin
- 🍳 Pastured eggs (scrambled or raw, depending on tolerance)
- 🐟 Sardines (packed in water), anchovies
- 🐓 Organ meats like liver or heart (1–2x/week max)
- 🧡 Golden paste (turmeric + coconut oil + black pepper)
- 🍠 Sweet potatoes, kale, parsley, green beans
💡 Tip: Lightly steam fibrous veggies to make them easier to digest.
Easy Recipes: Superfood Pupsicles & Bowl Boosters
- Summer Pupsicle Recipe:
- 1/2 banana
- 1 tbsp plain yogurt or kefir
- A few blueberries
- Splash of bone broth
- Blend and freeze in silicone molds
- Bowl Topper Ideas:
- Bone broth cubes
- Sprinkling freeze-dried liver or green-lipped mussel powder
- Chia or flaxseed (soaked overnight)
- Fermented veggies (like sauerkraut—just a teaspoon!)
3. Doggy Bone Broth Recipe (Freezer-Friendly)
Ingredients:
- 2–3 lbs of raw or cooked bones (beef knuckles, marrow bones, chicken feet, necks, or turkey backs — organic if possible)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals from the bones)
- 8–10 cups filtered water (enough to fully cover bones)
- 1–2 carrots (chopped)
- 1 celery stalk (chopped)
- 1 bunch of parsley (helps to freshen breath)
- Tbsp black peppercorns (helps to absorb nutrients + turmeric)
- Small piece of ginger and/or turmeric root (for anti-inflammatory support)
- Optional: other veggie scraps or veggies on hand
Instructions:
- Place bones and optional veggies into a large slow cooker or stockpot.
- Add apple cider vinegar and cover with water.
- Simmer on low for:
- 12–24 hours for poultry bones
- 24–48 hours for beef or lamb bones
- Let cool completely. Strain well to remove all bones and bits (never feed cooked bones).
- Pour into silicone molds or small freezer containers. Store:
- Up to 5 days in fridge
- Up to 3 months in freezer
Tip: label with a date so you can rotate batches.
Serving Suggestion:
Pour over meals or serve slightly warmed as a snack!
1–2 tbsp for small dogs
1/4–1/2 cup for medium to large dogs
Supplement Smarts: Support Beyond the Bowl
Supplements can bridge the gap and offer preventative dog care, especially as they age.
Our Favorite wellness Support: CBD for Calming, Balancing, and Healing
CBD can support:
- Joint comfort and mobility
- Nervous system regulation (calmer dogs = longer life!)
- Sleep quality and reduced inflammation
- Seizure support in neurological conditions
Choose a third-party tested, organic, full-spectrum hemp CBD product formulated specifically for pets.
CBD Dosage Chart for Dogs
| Dog’s Weight | Low Dose (Calming, Daily Wellness) | Moderate Dose (Joint Support, Inflammation) | High Dose (Pain, Seizures, Cancer Support) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 10 lbs | 1 mg | 2–3 mg | 4–5 mg |
| 10–25 lbs | 2 mg | 4–6 mg | 7–10 mg |
| 26–50 lbs | 3–4 mg | 8–12 mg | 15–20 mg |
| 51–75 lbs | 5–7 mg | 12–15 mg | 20–25 mg |
| 76–100+ lbs | 8–10 mg | 16–20 mg | 25–35 mg |
Symptom-Specific Guidelines:
| Wellness Goal | Recommended Dosage Range | Timing Tips |
|---|---|---|
| General Health / Aging | Low dose 1x daily | Add to breakfast or dinner |
| Anxiety / Stress | Low–Moderate 30 mins before trigger | Use before travel, fireworks, or separation |
| Arthritis / Joint Pain | Moderate 2x daily | Consistency matters for mobility improvements |
| Seizure Support | High dose 2x daily (vet-guided) | Start low and increase slowly with vet approval |
| Cancer Support | High dose 2–3x daily (with vet) | Pair with anti-inflammatory foods if possible |
| Digestive / Nausea | Low dose as needed | Great before car rides or new foods |
Notes:
- Start low, go slow. You can always increase gradually every 3–5 days.
- Consistency = better results, especially for inflammation or chronic issues.
- Drop oil directly on food for easy administration!
Always consult with your holistic or integrative vet for dogs on medications, or those with liver/kidney conditions.
Other Great Additions for Dog Care:
- Fish oil or wild salmon oil (anti-inflammatory + brain health)
- Probiotics (gut = immune system)
- Medicinal mushrooms (reishi, turkey tail)
- Turmeric (anti-cancer, joint support)
- Adaptogenic herbs (with vet guidance)
Mineral Balancing & HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis)
Chronic imbalances in minerals like calcium, magnesium, copper, or sodium can lead to fatigue, anxiety, or degenerative disease in dogs — just like in humans.
HTMA testing for dogs is now available via certain holistic vets or practitioners and can offer customized supplementation plans to optimize vitality. We love using Vykon Customs for our dogs’ HTMA needs.
This specialized testing may feel next level when looking at how to take care of a dog. We’re happy to sing its praises on the benefits we’ve seen in our dogs with Vykon support and in the grand scheme of things it’s much cheaper than sick care down the road!
Brain Boosters: Keeping the Mind Young
Cognitive stimulation is crucial to help dogs stay sharp, content, and behaviorally balanced. Boredom and predictability can actually accelerate aging in the brain.
Let Them Sniff — It’s Their Social Media
Walks aren’t just physical exercise; they’re mental stimulation. Letting your dog sniff freely on walks (aka “snifaris”) helps:
- Reduce stress
- Process information
- Feel more fulfilled and engaged
Especially important for older dogs whose sense of smell declines — give them time, space, and permission to linger.
New Adventures = New Neural Pathways
Change up your walk routes, take them to new parks, or even let them pick the path. Novel experiences light up the canine brain and keep it flexible.
Try:
- Forest trails
- Farmer’s markets (dog-friendly ones!)
- Beach walks
- Urban parks they’ve never explored
- Simply just turn down a new road in your neighborhood!
Brain Toys and Puzzles for Dog Care
Enrichment toys can help prevent cognitive decline and reduce destructive behavior.
A study from the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that interactive toys significantly improve mental health in aging dogs and reduce anxiety.
Favorites include:
- Snuffle mats
- Kong toys (stuffed + frozen)
- Lick mats
- Homemade muffin tin treat games
Rotate them weekly to keep your dog engaged and excited.
Foods and Substances to Avoid
1. The “Big Four” Toxins:
- 🍫 Chocolate
- 🍇 Grapes/Raisins
- 🌰 Macadamia nuts
- 🧅 Onions/Garlic (in large quantities)
Even small amounts of these can be fatal depending on the dog’s size and sensitivity.
2. Other Foods to Avoid:
- Xylitol (common in peanut butter and baked goods)
- Excess cheese and processed meats (high sodium)
- Cooked bones (they can splinter)
- Rawhide (often bleached and full of chemicals)
A Cleaner Home: Safe Dog Care Tips
Dogs spend most of their lives on the floor — so the surfaces we clean matter.
Cleaning Products to Avoid:
- Bleach
- Ammonia
- Lysol
- Pine-Sol
- Air fresheners with synthetic fragrance
These can cause respiratory distress, liver toxicity, and skin issues.
Safer Alternatives:
- Vinegar + water + lemon essential oil
- Castile soap
- Force of Nature non-toxic cleaner
- Branch Basics or Thieves cleaner (plant-based and dog-safe)
Essential Oils: Safe vs Unsafe
Use with caution and always diluted.
Generally safe:
- Lavender
- Frankincense
- Chamomile
- Cedarwood (Virginian, not Atlas)
Toxic to dogs:
- Tea Tree (Melaleuca)
- Eucalyptus
- Peppermint
- Cinnamon
- Wintergreen
Always diffuse in well-ventilated spaces and observe your dog’s behavior.
Nervous System & Emotional Wellness
Just like humans, dogs have a nervous system that craves rhythm, safety, and regulation. Chronic stress can impact everything from digestion to immune health, and even shorten a dog’s lifespan.
Why it matters:
- A 2024 study found that chronic anxiety in dogs is associated with increased cortisol levels, gut inflammation, and reduced lifespan.
- Chronic stress may exacerbate joint issues, digestive dysfunction, and behavioral disorders.
What helps:
- Daily grounding: Quality time with you — belly rubs, brushing, quiet presence — reduces cortisol and boosts oxytocin.
- Routine = Regulation: Dogs thrive on predictability. Try feeding, walking, and resting at roughly the same times daily.
- CBD + Herbs: Full-spectrum CBD, chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower can support the parasympathetic (rest + digest) response.
Sound matters: Loud TVs, traffic, even raised voices can add to ambient stress. Try dog-calming playlists or white noise during stressful events.
Dog Care FAQs
What are the most important dog care tips for longevity?
A long and healthy life for your dog starts with daily habits. Prioritize whole foods, regular exercise, mental stimulation, routine vet visits, dental care, and a calm, toxin-free environment. Even small changes — like switching to stainless steel bowls or taking longer “sniff walks” — can make a big difference.
How do I start a healthier dog care routine?
Begin with one or two small improvements, such as adding fresh veggies to your dog’s food, brushing their teeth a few times a week, or using a dog-safe, non-toxic floor cleaner. Over time, layer in supplements, CBD (if appropriate), and enrichment activities to support physical and emotional wellness.
What are some pet care tips I can use daily?
Try these quick daily tips:
- Offer calming support with herbs or pet-safe CBD if needed
- Brush or massage your dog to reduce stress
- Add a splash of bone broth or golden paste to meals
- Let your dog explore different sniff zones on walks
- Stick to consistent mealtimes and sleep routines
How much CBD should I give my dog?
CBD dosage depends on your dog’s weight and the reason for use. Start with a low dose of 1–2 mg per 10 lbs of body weight for general wellness, and adjust gradually. Always use pet-specific, third-party-tested CBD and consult your vet — especially if your dog takes other medications.
What foods should I avoid giving my dog?
Avoid toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, macadamia nuts, onions, and xylitol. Processed meats, cooked bones, and rawhide can also be harmful. When in doubt, stick to whole, lightly cooked foods and check with your vet before introducing new ingredients.
Dental Health = Longevity
Dental health is one of the most overlooked keys to longevity in dog care. Up to 80% of dogs over 3 years old have some form of periodontal disease.
Why it matters:
- Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and damage vital organs. Studies link gum disease in dogs to heart, kidney, and liver disease.
- Dogs with advanced periodontal disease have higher inflammatory markers throughout the body.
Supportive Practices:
- Daily brushing: Use a soft-bristled brush and dog-safe toothpaste. Even 3x/week can make a difference.
- For brushing-haters:
- Dental chews (like whimzees or dehydrated fish skin)
- Sea kelp or algae powder
- Coconut oil rubs (antibacterial + tasty)
- Raw meaty bones: With supervision, these can naturally clean teeth (avoid weight-bearing bones or cooked bones).
Annual vet dental cleanings: Especially important for small breeds, who are more prone to plaque buildup.
Movement That Matches Their Needs
Movement is medicine — but too much, or the wrong type, can cause harm.
Why it matters:
- Puppies, especially large breeds, are prone to orthopedic issues if over-exercised before growth plates close (usually by 12–18 months).
- Seniors can lose muscle tone quickly if not moved regularly.
- High-drive dogs without structured outlets may develop anxiety or destructive habits.
Dog Care Tips by stage:
- Puppies: Focus on play, short leash walks, and supervised off-leash exploration. Avoid long jogs or jumping from high surfaces.
- Adults: Mix cardio with sniff time, agility, swimming, and strength-building walks.
- Seniors: Gentle daily walks, joint supplements, stretching, and warmth (sweaters or heating pads) are your best friends.
Consider doggy yoga or range-of-motion exercises — even a few minutes a day supports joint health.
Preventative Vet Care — Holistic + Conventional
Holistic health doesn’t mean anti-vet — it means choosing care that respects the whole animal.
What to prioritize:
- Annual (or bi-annual) exams, even for healthy dogs. Many conditions are easier to treat when caught early.
- Titer testing instead of automatic yearly vaccines — check immunity levels before re-vaccinating.
- Flea/tick prevention: Herbal options, essential oil sprays, and consistent checking can reduce reliance on harsh chemicals.
- Partnering with an integrative vet: They can offer acupuncture, chiropractic care, ozone therapy, and nutrition alongside conventional diagnostics.
Find a holistic vet near you: ahvma.org
Toxin Load: More Than Just Cleaners
Your dog’s environment matters — from the grass they walk on to the bowl they eat from.
Hidden toxins:
- Pesticides and lawn chemicals (linked to increased cancer risk in dogs)
- Plastics: BPA and phthalates in bowls and toys disrupt hormones
- Fire retardants in dog beds and furniture
- Chemical flea/tick meds and collars: Some have been linked to neurological issues
Easy swaps:
- Stainless steel or ceramic bowls
- Untreated wooden or natural fiber beds
- Homemade flea spray: apple cider vinegar, water, and lavender oil (diluted!)
- Paw wipes after walks (especially in urban areas or apartment lawns)
Check out this How To Reduce Your Dogs Toxic Burden PDF!
Sleep & Recovery
Dogs heal while they rest — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Why it matters:
- Dogs need 12–18 hours of sleep per day, depending on age and activity level.
- Poor sleep = increased stress hormones, slower healing, and behavior issues.
- Puppies and seniors may sleep even more — and need it.
How to support better rest:
- Offer multiple cozy beds in quiet areas of the home.
- Keep consistent bedtime routines.
- Use calming music, dim lighting, and CBD before bed for anxious pups.
Advocacy + Intuition: You Know Your Dog Best
This is your reminder: you are your dog’s voice.
Why this matters:
- Many early signs of illness are subtle: changes in behavior, appetite, posture, or sleep.
- Vets see your dog for minutes. You live with them. Trust what you feel.
Ways to stay in tune when you notice something off:
- Keep a daily or weekly log of food, poop, behavior, and supplements.
- Note changes early — before they escalate.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for second opinions or push for testing if something feels off.
Social Health & Connection
Dogs are deeply emotional creatures. Connection isn’t optional — it’s essential.
Risks of isolation:
- Boredom and loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, or aggression.
- Dogs left alone too often may struggle with behavioral or immune issues over time.
Connection practices:
- Intentional playtime — fetch, tug, or chasing games build trust and joy.
- Safe socialization — doggy friends, trusted daycare, or walking groups.
- Avoid overstimulation — not all dogs enjoy crowded dog parks. Look for smaller, calmer interactions.
Dogs need purpose and partnership — not just entertainment.
A Dog’s Health Timeline: How To Care For A Dog As They Age
Every life stage brings new needs. Here’s how to take care of a dog at each crucial age:
Puppyhood (0–12 months)
- Gut development: Probiotics, fresh foods, gentle deworming
- Joint protection: Controlled exercise, avoid stairs and jumps
- Social shaping: Positive exposure to people, noises, surfaces
Adulthood (1–7 years)
- Joint + mobility care: Omega-3s, CBD, structured exercise
- Mental stimulation: Brain games, new environments
- Dental hygiene: Start brushing early to prevent future issues
Senior Years (7+ years)
- Cognitive support: MCT oil, puzzles, novel scents
- Bladder + kidney support: Adequate hydration, herbs like cranberry or marshmallow root
- More grace: Shorter walks, soft bedding, and extra time to sniff
Final Thoughts: Little Things, Big Impact
You don’t need to overhaul your dog’s life overnight.
Start with one small change: maybe it’s a new topper on their bowl, a longer sniffari walk, or swapping out your floor cleaner. Then add more as you go. Consistency and care are what build a forever bond — and a longer life.
Your dog gives you everything. This is how you give a little bit of it back.
By Sarah Birney