Dogs and Cats: 7 Tips to Make Them Happy (Together with Their Owners): From Diet to Hygiene, Play, and Affection

In October, “Dog Health Month” is a free initiative aimed at improving the well-being of our four-legged friends with the help of experts.

Today, pets are no longer just dogs or cats to care for but true members of the family. This shift is especially apparent among Millennials, with 85% considering them genuine family members. Although Boomers show a slight difference at 67%, the overall figure remains high: 79% of Italians see their pets as integral parts of the family unit.

The "pet lover" phenomenon is growing, with over half of Italians (56%) owning at least one four-legged friend, mainly dogs (36%) and cats (33%). An additional 20% wishes to own one (Source: Unipol Changes research developed by Ipsos). “Dog Health Month” was launched to promote greater awareness.

Expert’s Words

“The increasing attention to the care and health of our four-legged friends reflects a deep cultural shift, marking an evolution in the relationship between animal and owner,” explains Luca Deriu, founder of CuorMio and pioneer of DogFoodness in Italy. “Today, it’s becoming clear that caring for a dog goes beyond just feeding or walking it; its health depends on various aspects and requires a holistic approach that includes diet, prevention, training, and physical activity.”

Having pets at home is an immensely meaningful and rewarding experience, yet it’s not without challenges. Lack of information on caring for our loyal pets can endanger them. It is crucial not only to understand their needs but also to recognize potential signs of discomfort, pay attention to daily behaviors, and learn to spot unintentional mistakes that could be harmful or dangerous.

To further raise awareness on these issues, “Dog Health Month” was introduced. "The majority of the mistakes owners make with their animals often occur unintentionally." It’s not about bad intentions but the lack of clear instructions on how to care for their dog. Information is essential to ensuring their well-being.”

"7 Tips to Make a Dog Happy"

How can a dog owner contribute to their pet’s well-being and happiness? Nutrition undoubtedly plays a fundamental role: a balanced diet is essential for a healthy life, and a healthy dog will be more active and lively. Physical activity is also crucial for the dog’s physical and mental health. Regular vet visits are necessary, and hygiene and grooming are indispensable.

To keep a dog mentally active, games are important as they stimulate brain activity, and a “pet-friendly” environment will help them feel at ease. Lastly, a dog is happiest when receiving attention and love from its “human”: affection will make it feel secure.

More: Dog News