7 common dog preventative healthcare misconceptions debunked

Keeping your dog healthy and well depends on providing the right balance of food and exercise, enriching their lifestyle, and being vigilant for signs of injury or illness, seeking veterinary advice promptly when needed.

Preventative healthcare is an essential part of responsible dog ownership. It means planning ahead to identify and reduce risks that could affect your dog's long-term health, such as administering appropriate flea and worm treatments, and neutering unless you intend to breed responsibly.

Despite many owners' best intentions, some common misconceptions about preventative healthcare persist. These can unintentionally harm dogs whose owners follow incorrect advice.

In this article, we debunk seven widespread myths about dog preventative healthcare, providing clear facts to help you offer the best care for your furry friend.

1. Dogs only need flea treatments in warm months

It's often believed that flea treatments are only necessary during spring and summer when fleas are most active. However, fleas can survive and multiply indoors year-round, thanks to heated homes providing a warm environment during colder months.

Parasites like fleas can persist in carpets, bedding, and upholstery, meaning your dog can still get infested in winter. Applying flea treatments all year ensures your dog remains protected regardless of season.

2. If your dog is flea-free, your home must be too

Even if your dog shows no signs of fleas, your home may harbour infestations in carpets and soft furnishings where flea larvae can remain dormant for months.

Regularly using home flea treatments and washing your dog's bedding at hot temperatures helps eliminate fleas in the environment, protecting both your dog and your family.

3. Neutering changes a dog’s personality

Many owners worry neutering will alter their dog's personality. Current veterinary guidance in the UK recommends a tailored approach, considering each dog's health and behavioural context.

Neutering can influence hormone-driven behaviours like roaming, marking, or mating instinct, but it typically does not change your dog's core personality traits. Well-socialised, happy dogs generally retain their character post-neutering.

Moreover, neutering helps prevent many reproductive health issues and may reduce risks of fighting or straying.

4. Treats can be given freely without impacting calorie intake

While treats are wonderful for training and bonding, they do add calories. Overfeeding treats can lead to unintentional weight gain, even if your dog receives a balanced diet.

Experts recommend allocating a specific snack allowance per day and adjusting meal portions accordingly to maintain healthy weight and wellbeing.

5. Most dogs have bad breath and it’s normal

Strong or foul breath is not normal in dogs; it often indicates dental disease which can be painful and hinder eating.

Routine dental care, including brushing several times a week from a young age, helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay. If your dog's breath is unpleasant, a veterinary dental check and treatment may be necessary.

6. Scooting or dragging the rear on the ground is normal for some dogs

Scooting is usually a sign of discomfort, often caused by worms or impacted anal glands, both of which require veterinary attention.

Leaving scooting unaddressed can cause pain and infection. If your dog exhibits this behaviour, seek veterinary advice promptly.

7. Worming treatments protect against worms between doses

Worming medications kill current worms but do not prevent new infestations between treatments. Most dogs benefit from worming every three months, but some may require more frequent dosing based on lifestyle and exposure risks.

If you suspect your dog has worms or is particularly exposed, consult your vet before giving additional treatments to ensure safe and effective care.

By understanding these myths and the facts, you can confidently manage your dog’s preventative healthcare, promoting a longer, happier life. Always work with a vet to tailor health plans to your individual dog’s needs.