Your dog's vitality: 6 habits that really matter

A dog who can't wait for their walk, who plays, sleeps well and has a good appetite: that's vitality. To support your dog's vitality, there's no magic formula. Mostly, there are good habits, repeated day after day. Here are the ones that matter most, and the smaller role vitamins can play.

What is vitality in dogs?

Vitality is your dog's energy and enthusiasm in everyday life. It changes with age, breed and season. A young border collie and an older bulldog won't have the same pace, and that's normal.

What matters is knowing your dog's usual energy level. That's what helps you notice a change.

6 habits that support your dog's vitality

1. Complete, suitable food

This is the foundation. Choose a complete and balanced food suited to their age, size and activity level. A puppy, an active adult and a senior dog don't have the same needs. If you switch foods, make the change gradually over several days.

2. A healthy weight

A few extra pounds can make walks harder and a dog less playful. You should be able to feel their ribs easily under your fingers without seeing them. Count treats in their daily intake and ask your veterinarian about their ideal weight.

3. Exercise every day

Walking, running, fetch, swimming: physical activity keeps muscles fit and helps burn off energy. Adjust the intensity to their age and condition. In Quebec, think about the seasons: shorter walks and boots or paw balm in the deep cold, early-morning or evening outings during heat waves.

4. A busy brain

Vitality isn't only physical. A bored dog can seem listless or, on the contrary, restless. A few minutes of training, a sniffing game or a stuffed toy make a real difference. To reward often without too many calories, small training treats are handy.

5. Rest and fresh water

Dogs sleep a lot, and they need it. Give them a quiet, comfortable spot. Keep fresh water available at all times, summer and winter.

6. Regular vet checkups

The yearly exam lets your vet keep an eye on weight, teeth, heart and much more. For an older dog, your veterinarian may suggest more frequent visits. It's the best way to catch early anything that could affect their energy.

Where do vitamins fit in?

Vitamins and minerals are essential for the body to work properly. But a dog eating a complete and balanced food already gets them from their meals. To learn what each one does, see our guide to dog vitamins and minerals.

A supplement can have a place in certain situations, for example with a homemade diet, or if your veterinarian thinks it's useful. It's then added on top of good habits, not instead of them. To find out if that's the case for your dog, read our article Does my dog need vitamins?

If you do choose one, a treat format makes the routine more enjoyable. Our multivitamin treat, chicken flavour, is formulated to support your dog's overall health. It's given according to weight, with or after a meal.

When low energy should get your attention

A dog who's a bit quieter after a big day isn't cause for concern. However, see your veterinarian if you notice:

• tiredness that lasts more than a few days;
• loss of appetite or weight loss;
• a dog who refuses walks or has trouble getting up;
• any other unusual change in behaviour.

Low energy can have many causes. Only an exam can tell what's going on. A vitamin isn't the answer to a health problem.

The bottom line

Your dog's vitality is built day by day: good food, a healthy weight, exercise, games, rest and vet visits. Vitamins can round out the picture in some cases, but habits do most of the work.

Frequently asked questions

My dog is getting older and sleeps more. Is that normal?

Senior dogs often sleep more and slow down a little. A sudden change, though, deserves a visit to the vet.

How much exercise does my dog need?

It depends on breed, age and health. Your veterinarian can help you find the right balance. The key is to do a bit every day.