Spring is finally here! The sun is shining, the temperatures are rising, and nature is coming back to life. But as a dog owner, there are a few important things to keep in mind to make the season as enjoyable as possible for both you and your four-legged friend. Here are five essential tips to help your dog stay happy and healthy this spring.
 

1. Shedding season: Time for extra grooming

As the weather warms up, your dog will start to shed their thick winter coat – which means tufts of fur on your clothes, furniture and just about everywhere else. To help them through this, regular brushing is a must. It keeps their coat clean, prevents tangles and reduces the risk of skin irritation. The right brush or comb depends on your dog's coat type, so choose wisely.
 

2. Watch out for parasites: Prevention is the key

With the warmer weather comes the return of unwanted guests like ticks, fleas and other pests. If you're out and about in woodland or grassy areas, it's important to protect your dog from these little troublemakers. Talk to your vet about the best parasite protection for your dog, whether it's spot-on treatments, collars or tablets. And remember – always check for ticks after a walk, as they can carry nasty diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and babesiosis.
 

3. Protect nature: Keep your dog on a leash

Spring is the time when many wild animals give birth, and even the most well-behaved dog can be tempted to chase a young deer or rabbit. To protect these vulnerable animals, keep your dog on a leash when walking in nature reserves, fields or woodland. Watch out for signs indicating wildlife sanctuaries – respecting nature will help everyone enjoy the season in harmony.
 

4. Poisonous plants: Beware of blooms

As beautiful as spring flowers are, some of them can be dangerous for your dog. Plants such as lilies of the valley, tulips and crocuses are poisonous and can cause stomach problems or even poisoning if ingested. If your dog is in the habit of chewing on grass or plant parts on walks, keep a close eye on them and keep them away from anything suspicious.
 

5. Building fitness: Take it slow

If your dog has been less active over the winter, ease them back into exercise gradually. If you are jogging or cycling with your dog, be careful not to push them too hard too soon. Start with moderate walks and gradually increase the distance and pace. Keep an eye on their behaviour – if they pant more than usual, stop frequently or seem unusually tired the next day, it's a sign to slow down. A steady build up will keep your dog fit and ready for all the spring adventures that lie ahead.