5 Things You Can Do Right Now to Help Your Dog Live Longer

You may have seen headlines lately about scientists working on drugs that could help dogs live longer. While the research is exciting, there’s already so much you can do at home right now to support your dog’s healthy lifespan!

These five simple habits take just a few minutes a day but can have a huge impact on your dog’s health, happiness, and lifespan.

1. Add Fresh Foods to Their Bowl

Most dogs eat the same processed food every day. Even the best kibble or canned diet doesn’t compare to the natural nutrients in fresh foods. Adding a few pieces of fruits and veggies—like blueberries, carrots, or green beans—can boost your dog’s intake of antioxidants and fiber. Cooked, unseasoned lean meats and fish (like chicken, turkey, or salmon) are also great toppers. They’re packed with healthy protein and omega-3 fatty acids that support joint health and reduce inflammation.

What to avoid? Table scraps with sauces, fatty meats, sugary foods, and dairy products. These can upset your dog’s digestion and, over time, contribute to weight gain and other health issues. Want to know more about what’s safe to share? Check out my blog post on safe human foods for dogs and toxic ones to avoid.

2. Check for Fleas and Ticks

Parasites aren’t just annoying—they can spread serious diseases like Lyme disease and tapeworms. Even if your dog is on a preventative, it’s important to do a quick check after every walk, especially in tall grass or wooded areas.Run your hands through their coat, paying extra attention to the ears, neck, armpits, and groin—warm spots where ticks love to hide. If you find any, remove them right away with a tick removal tool or tweezers.

Regular checks can catch these pests early and reduce the risk of illness. And as always, if you’re unsure about prevention, talk to your vet.

3. Wipe Those Paws!

Sidewalks, lawns, and trails are covered in dirt, bacteria, and chemicals. One of the biggest concerns is lawn pesticides. Many neighborhoods treat their grass with herbicides and pesticides that can stick to your dog’s paws and fur.Over time, repeated exposure to these chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers in dogs—like lymphoma and bladder cancer. Plus, dogs often lick their paws, which means these toxins can end up inside their bodies.

Taking a minute to wipe your dog’s paws after every walk is an easy way to reduce these risks. Use a damp cloth or dog-safe wipes to clean off the residue before they come back inside.

4. Keep Their Brain Working

Mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise for your dog’s health. It keeps them sharp, reduces anxiety, and even slows down cognitive decline as they age.

You don’t have to spend hours a day on complex training. Try rotating puzzle toys, playing hide-and-seek with treats, or teaching a new trick. Even something as simple as letting your dog sniff around in the yard for a few extra minutes can make a big difference. The key is variety—keep it fresh and fun to keep your dog engaged.

5. Do a 5-minute Body Scan Each Week

A quick weekly checkup at home can help you catch small changes before they become bigger problems. Gently run your hands over your dog’s entire body—start at the head and work down to the tail.Look and feel for:

• New lumps or bumps

• Swelling or tenderness

• Skin irritation, rashes, or bald patches

• Cracked or overgrown nails

• Changes in weight, coat condition, or muscle tone

If you find anything new or unusual, jot it down and let your vet know. Early detection is key for better outcomes.

The Bottom Line

These five simple habits take just a few minutes out of your day, but they can make a real difference in your dog’s overall health and longevity. A little effort now can help keep them by your side—happy and healthy—for years to come.