by Maple Herzog

Created on: September 21, 2009

By definition, companion dogs are dogs that do not work in herding or hunting jobs but keep people company. Companion dogs can be of any breed but are usually those chosen to have sociable and personable skills. These dogs can range from lap-dogs such as Pomeranians or pugs to affable and fairly large ones like Golden Retrievers or Dalmatians.

Since companion dogs are usually kept indoors and lead rather uneventful lives, they are prone to certain health problems associated with inactivity. Obesity is one of the main health problems many companion dogs face, particularly if their owner allows free feeding and does not exercise the dogs enough. In order to prevent obesity, dogs should be given portions according to their size and activity level and should not be overfed. High quality kibbles that are low in carbohydrates work well for companion dogs with low activity levels. Regardless of size or breed, all companion dogs should be exercised and walked on a regular basis.

Companion dogs, like working dogs, can die from certain diseases like distemper, hepatitis, kennel cough, leptospirosis and parvo. All dogs should be vaccinated when young. Older dogs should be checked by a veterinarian and have their medication or vaccination up to date. This helps prevent diseases that can be transmitted by parasites or other dogs.

Worms are also a common problem in dogs. While companion dogs are usually kept indoors and often do not come into contact with tainted meat or other wild animals that may have worms, contact with other dogs or feces in the park may cause transmission of parasitic worms like heartworm, tapeworm and roundworms. Tapeworms and roundworms can be treated by medication. Heartworm however, is less easy to treat and is often painful and deadly. Vets prescribe heartworm preventative medication for dogs that live in warmer climates since heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes that thrive in warm, humid environments.

External parasites such as fleas, mites and ticks often cause health problems in companion dogs especially during the spring and summer months. Examples of health problems caused by external parasites include dry and itching skin, excessive shedding of fur, diarrhea, severe skin allergies or even death in dogs since most of the external parasites feed off the dog's blood. In order to prevent fleas, mites and ticks from attacking a dog, topical flea medication such as Advantage or Frontline Plus can be used. Holistic flea prevention can also be used - these include a supplement of brewer's yeast and garlic and a spray of neem oil and other essential oils. Keeping the house and yard clean also helps in avoiding parasitic infestation.

Finally, companion dogs with long, floppy ears like Basset Hounds, Dachshunds or Beagles are prone to ear mites since the shape of their ears can restrict flow around the ear canals, causing the ears to become damp and allowing the area to be a breeding ground for mites. To avoid ear mites, the dog's ears should be clean on a weekly basis and any hair growth restricting air flow around the ear canals should be trimmed.

Companion dogs bring joy, love and loyalty to their owners. In turn, owners should be responsible enough to make sure their pets stay healthy and strong by feeding them quality food, ensuring that all their vaccinations are up to date and providing them with a safe and clean environment. An average dog is expected to live at least 10 years, and with proper care, one can expect at least 10 great years of mutual friendship and happiness.

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