How to take care of your dog : a short guide for caring humans

Taking care of your dog isn’t just about walking them and feeding them. It’s also about understanding who they are and treating them with respect and kindness every day. This philosophy also applies to grooming: brushing, bathing, or checking their paws can become moments of bonding. To learn how to take care of your dog, Les Wouf likes to remind people of these three pillars: observe, respect, and encourage. Because a happy dog is, above all, a understood dog.

Better understand your dog’s needs to take better care of them

Every wag of the tail, every look, every little sigh conveys an emotion, a need, fatigue, or discomfort that it is up to you to understand. It’s true, dogs communicate constantly, and it’s up to us to learn to read them.

Because a well-balanced dog is a dog whose basic needs are respected: physical activity, rest, mental stimulation, social contact, and stable boundaries. This helps to minimize the appearance of “problematic” behaviors, which are often indicative of an imbalance.

Observe, encourage, adjust, instead of forcing or scolding, offer an alternative, divert attention, reward good behavior, for lasting trust. The same trust that makes every moment of care, from brushing to bathing, much easier for both of you.

That’s why at Les Wouf, we like to remind people that understanding your dog is already part of caring for them.

Canine hygiene : simple, regular, and appropriate care

Brushing remains the basic care, as essential as walking. It allows you to aerate the coat, remove dirt, sand, stones, stuck seeds… and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

When it’s time for a bath, choose a shampoo that is suitable for your dog’s coat and skin, with the right pH and no controversial ingredients. Lukewarm water, gentle movements, and a good rinse will do the rest. And don’t forget the sensitive areas. The eyes and ears deserve special attention and the use of a cleansing lotion that is alcohol-free and has no strong fragrance.

Paws also need to be checked after every walk: mud, salt, grass seeds, or small stones can be painful. Wiping them with a Les Wouf cleansing wipe allows you to handle them and check them thoroughly.

Finally, your dog’s hygiene also includes their mouth. Regular brushing of their teeth or suitable chew treats prevent tartar build-up and bad breath. At Les Wouf, we like to say that a clean dog is a dog you can cuddle without thinking twice. And that’s the goal, isn’t it?

Feeding your dog well : balance, pleasure, and vitality

Food is the first form of care you can give your dog. It affects their energy levels, skin, coat, and even their mood. But with grain-free kibble, homemade meals, and all kinds of promises, it’s not easy to know what to choose.

So remember that the most important thing is to strike a balance between protein, high-quality fats, fiber, and minerals. All this while taking into account your dog’s age, size, and lifestyle. At the same time, water is a staple that should be provided at will, always fresh and clean to support digestion, elimination, and vitality.

Of course, enjoyment is also important. Eating should remain a positive experience, free from stress and monotony. If you can, vary the textures and containers, offer healthy treats, or add a little freshness (cooked vegetables, suitable fruits). But be careful: too many supplements can upset the balance of the diet.

A dull coat, bad breath, a dog that scratches often, or a drop in energy are the first indicators of an unbalanced diet. Observe, adjust, and, if necessary, seek advice from your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist.

Move, play, share : the secret to a balanced dog

A dog that is comfortable in its own skin is a dog that moves, explores, and enjoys moments of true companionship with its human. A walk, a treasure hunt, a sniffing session, or a simple run in the garden all contribute to its well-being as much as a full bowl of food or regular shampooing.

But don’t forget about mental and social stimulation: allow your dog to smell, choose, solve problems, and interact. A dog that is allowed to sniff around gains confidence. The idea is to create a balance: a little exercise, some calm, contact, and lots of recognition.

And playing is also a way of getting to know each other. A dog that has fun, is allowed to be curious, and receives attention without constraints becomes calmer, more receptive, and happier.

At Les Wouf, we like to say that a happy dog is a dog that has the right to get dirty, run around, sleep in the sun, and do it all over again the next day. Because ultimately, taking care of your dog means giving them a simple, joyful life by your side.