Keeping your furry buddy healthy, happy, and mentally stimulated is what every dog owner aims for. I totally get it since I’ve grown up with 5 dogs (yes it was a busy household! 🤣. From their puppy days to now being seniors, we’ve had to mix things up to keep them engaged and in tip-top shape.
With so many products on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose what’s best for your dog so based on my experience I’ve rounded up the top 10 essentials every dog needs for optimal health, comfort, and stimulation.
Top 10 Essentials for Healthy and Engaged Dogs
1. Premium Dog Treats: Black Dog Chicken Breast (1kg)
Treats aren’t just a reward—they’re an opportunity to boost your dog’s nutrition. My dogs absolutely love the Black Dog Chicken Breast treats (pictured half empty pack!) which are high in protein, low in fat, and free of artificial additives. They’re perfect for training, rewarding good behavior, or just giving your dog a healthy snack they’ll love.
Tip– hide treats around the house to keep dogs mentally stimulated while they are at home alone.
2. Omega Oil for a Lustrous Coat and Overall Health
A few drops of omega oil in your dog’s meals can work wonders. Rich in essential fatty acids, omega oil supports healthy skin, a shiny coat, joint health, and even brain function. Whether your pup has a luxurious fur coat or a short, sleek one, omega oil is a must-have.
This has been absolutely critical in maintaining overall health. My shitzu’s now 17 years old and I am a firm believe supplements such as this omega oil have helped.
3. Snuffle Mat for Mental Enrichment
Dogs have a natural instinct to forage, and a snuffle mat taps into that instinct while providing hours of entertainment. Hide some treats or kibble in the mat’s fabric folds and let your dog “hunt” for their snack. It’s an excellent way to engage their brain and keep them occupied.
I My dogs also love to sleep on the mat! Just hoping and waiting for more treats! Snuffle mats help maintain dogs natural instincts to forage for food.
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4. Brain Stimulation Games for Sharp Minds
Interactive puzzle toys are a fantastic way to keep your dog’s mind active. Games like treat-dispensing puzzles or flip-board challenges encourage problem-solving skills while preventing boredom. A mentally stimulated dog is a happy dog!
This windmill provided hours of entertainment for my lil ones.
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5. Orthopedic Dog Bed for Ultimate Comfort
Every dog deserves a comfortable place to rest after a long day of play. Orthopedic dog beds provide superior support for your dog’s joints and muscles, especially important for senior dogs or breeds prone to joint issues. Plus, a well-rested dog is more energetic and playful! Comfort is key as your dogs move into their senior years to support joints and allow them to sleep comfortably
6. High-Quality wet food for a Nutritious Diet
A balanced diet is the cornerstone of your dog’s health. High-quality food provides hydration, delicious flavors, and essential nutrients. Look for brands that list meat as the primary ingredient and avoid those with fillers or artificial preservatives. Brands such as Hills are more expensive than supermarkets however do contain more nutrients.
7. Good-Quality Dog Kibble for Dental and Nutritional Health
Complement wet food with premium kibble to ensure your dog gets all the nutrients they need. Kibble can also help maintain dental health by reducing plaque buildup. Choose a formula tailored to your dog’s age, breed, and size for optimal benefits.
8. Automatic Feeder for Consistent Mealtime
If you have a busy schedule, an automatic feeder is a lifesaver. It ensures your dog is fed on time, even when you’re not home. Many models allow you to set portion sizes and schedules, giving you peace of mind that your pup’s nutrition stays on track. Automatic feeders also provide peace of mind if you’re not at home to ensure your fur babies are nourished during meal times.
9. Cooling Mat for Warm Weather Comfort
Dogs can easily overheat in warm weather, especially breeds with thick coats. A cooling mat provides a comfortable spot for your dog to relax and cool down. Perfect for hot summer days or after a vigorous play session! Living in Australia its gets pretty hot during Summer so a cooling mat is much needed!
10. Dog Camera to Stay Connected
Ever wonder what your dog is up to while you’re away? A dog camera lets you keep an eye on your pup in real-time. Some models such as the Furbo pictured here even allow you to dispense treats or talk to your dog, helping reduce separation anxiety and keeping them engaged. As my dogs aged into their senior years the camera feature provided a lot of comfort throughout the night and if no-one was home to keep an eye and provide treats for stimulation.
Conclusion
Investing in the right products for your dog can totally change the game when it comes to their health and happiness. Whether it’s tasty treats like Black Dog Chicken Breast, fun toys to keep them entertained, or cozy beds for lounging, these must-haves will keep your furry buddy happy and thriving. When you take care of their physical, mental, and emotional needs, you’re setting them up for a long, joyful life by your side!
Which of these essentials will you be adding to your dog’s routine? Let us know in the comments below!
Bonus video of my lil ones 😂
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