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If you are a pet owner, chances are your furry friend's health is of utmost importance to you. And whether you’re a frequent traveler or love strolling around the neighborhood, one thing is for sure. 

Bringing your canine buddy along is always an opportunity to make new friends, meet new people, or ward off stress through pet walking.

But like humans, dogs too have their own health concerns, which should be addressed if you want to have the best time of your life with them as the pet parent.

With this said, read on for five health issues your dog might face, alongside some tips to handle them.

1. Anxiety and Stress– Consider CBD Oil

We all know how our canine friends may show signs of anxiety, such as aggressive behavior, panting, or barking more frequently. The causes could be anything from separation issues to fear of thunderstorms or unfamiliar visitors.

One of the best ways to address dog anxiety is to make sure the pup is getting enough exercise, snuggles, and quiet time spent together. Distraction through interactive toys or treats can work magic for your dog’s emotional health.

And as far as treats are concerned, hemp-based CBD oil for dogs has been shown to help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote relaxation in our furry friends.

2. Dental Hygiene & Bad Breath 

Having a healthy jaw, teeth, and gums is essential for all of us; and that includes our canine and feline buddies too. Dental problems are unfortunately quite common among our favorite companions (dogs and cats) due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria in the mouth.

In this case, you want to be brushing your puppy's teeth at least once a week with Vet-recommended toothpaste. Also, diet changes such as switching to wet diet foods formulated with added nutrients like taurine, protein, and glucosamine can help promote dental health.

Note: Dried bones or chews may also help your pooch keep their teeth clean, but use them cautiously as they could defeat the purpose if swallowed.

3. Gastrointestinal Health 

Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and flatulence are not uncommon among pets. The GIT problems in pets are often caused by food allergies or disruption in the pet’s normal gut flora balance. In this case, adding probiotics and fiber-rich fruits like apples and pears to their diet can help.

Probiotics especially aid in restoring the gut’s normal flora balance, while also reducing inflammation and boosting immunity. Be sure to also provide an adequate amount of water daily as dehydration could also lead to digestive problems such as constipation.

4. Joint Stiffness 

Exercising your dog is essential for maintaining joint health and building supportive muscle mass. Make sure to offer appropriate activities based on the age, breed, and physical condition of your pet. Besides walking, swimming is a great example as it minimizes the pressure on their joints while helping them move freely in warmer waters. Managing joint stiffness often requires additional support, especially for older dogs or those with prior injuries. To enhance your dog's mobility and alleviate discomfort, consider using supportive gear such as braces. You can purchase dog braces here to help provide stability during physical activities and reduce strain on their joints while they recover. Whether your dog is experiencing chronic joint pain or recovering from an injury, the extra support can make a significant difference in their overall well-being.

Moreover, a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, which could otherwise lead to arthritis or other joint issues over time. Additionally, CBD has been suggested as an alternative treatment for chronic pain in dogs caused by joint stiffness.

5. Skin Allergies & Disorders

Oftentimes, skin conditions among dogs are caused by environmental factors like pollen, fleas, or other parasites. To avoid excessive scratching and/or hair loss, regular use of specialized shampoos might be beneficial for your pup when it’s time for a bath.

Moreover, monthly grooming to remove dead hairs from their coat can help regulate temperature during hot summer days while making sure the fur is not greasy and matted.

Lastly, make sure to check for any odors, as well as skin allergy symptoms like excessive shedding or scratching. These could indicate serious dermatological issues that warrant a trip to the vet's office sooner rather than later.